Keys Replacement For Cars If you have a standard mechanical key it is likely to purchase a replacement from any hardware store for cheap. However, this key must be programmed by a locksmith or dealership. Smart keys are more complicated and require a trip to the dealer to connect them to your vehicle. These types of keys are typically expensive but some insurance companies will cover the cost. Mechanical Keys There are still car keys that are purely mechanical, such as the ones you put into an ignition lock cylinder and turn to start your vehicle. If your car has one of these keys, replacing the fob and keys is relatively cheap (if they are lost or stolen). A locksmith can create an entry level key for you at a lower cost than what you'd pay in a dealership. You could also have someone close to you who is proficient in programming transponder keys from the aftermarket (which are less expensive than keys from factory) cut keys and then program them. It is essential to have a spare key because modern vehicles won't start in the event that the key does have the right chip. Transponder keys look a lot like mechanical keys, however they are actually equipped with an electronic chip embedded in the bottom of their plastic form that communicates with the computer system in your vehicle. Your car will recognize the code in the chip, but it will not start if you use another code. If the spare key you have has chips, you'll have to take it to a dealership to get it programmed. They will need to use a special machine to both cut the key and program it. These machines are only available at certain dealerships, and it's unlikely that a locksmith will have the tools needed to make keys that are laser-cut with a transponder. It is expensive to replace keys using remotes, particularly if you require an extra. You can try reprogramming your fob on your own if you're just missing the shank on the key and you have a functional replacement fob, however it can be difficult and time-consuming. You're better off contacting an expert if you've lost both the key and the fob. There are different kinds of keys for cars that require a more specific set of skills to replace, for example flip keys and smart keys. They are more complicated and are usually replaced at the dealership. Key fobs can be operated by a proximity sensor or a door opener with a spring loaded mechanism. Transponder Keys If your car was built in the last 10 years or so it's likely to have a transponder key system. These keys contain an embedded microchip and the receiver is programmed to send a signal to start your car. Transponder keys are an excellent way to discourage theft because they require two parts for the car to start - the transmitter (transponder) in the key and the receiver that is connected to your immobilizer system. Without both the key and the immobilizer system in place, the car won't start and it is not possible to connect hotwire. The key chips are programmed with a unique serial number that is unique to the vehicle you own. When the key is inserted into your ignition, the serial number is sent to the cars immobilizer and checked to ensure that it is in line, it will then allow the engine to run. This security feature is only defeated by a special device that can read the chip to match it with another car. https://www.openlearning.com/u/ellingtonbateman-sjujet/blog/10MistakenAnswersToCommonReplacementKeysCarQuestionsDoYouKnowTheCorrectAnswers 'll need to find an locksmith with the equipment to reprogram your key. Some car dealerships provide this service too, but they are generally more expensive than a private locksmith because of their overhead. The process of getting a new car keys that has a chip in it can be a very complex procedure. The key has to be cut using a specific machine to ensure that it has the correct tracks in place which can later be programmed to assign the key to your car. This requires specific software and the right key cutter to be done correctly. Some of the simpler chip keys can be cloned at a variety of auto parts stores, but you must be aware of the serial number of the original key to ensure the proper information is being encoded into the new key. Many people make the error of going to their dealer to have their chip key copied and end up paying more than they need to. Laser-Cut Keys Laser-cut keys are also known as a sidewinder keys due to the distinctive winding cut on the key shank. They provide an additional layer of security to your car. These keys are a great protection against auto theft since they require special equipment to duplicate. They also come with built-in chips to stop the copying of keys by unauthorized people from starting your car. They also typically come with a unique code on the key, which must be programmed to your specific car in order to allow it to be opened and started. This extra level of security will protect your investment and prevent thieves from trying to steal your vehicle for parts or to resell it. In terms of their design, laser-cut keys are slightly different from standard mechanical cut keys due to having fewer carved-out grooves on the key. They also have a larger key shaft which is an excellent indication that it's not a regular car key. Locksmiths typically use a machine called a milling tool to cut these kinds of keys. This machine is similar to a drill bit, and is designed to remove metal with precise angles. They're among the most secure keys you can buy for your car, as they're very hard to replicate and can only be cut by the dealer or a licensed locksmith. They're not made with traditional keys. Instead, they're made of a tiny piece of steel that is shaped to a code at the factory, and then cut with laser. This kind of key is able to withstand a lot wear and tear, and is among the best options to protect your vehicle. The key can be folded into the fob, or it can pop out by pressing a button. These types of keys are used extensively in German automobiles and provide an additional layer of protection against car thieves. The cylinder is resistant to breaking into, which makes it difficult for thieves to pick or pick-lock the car. Smart Keys In contrast to the traditional single piece of metal, smart keys utilize RFID, or radio-frequency identification, to communicate with the car. This means they come with tiny chips that contain an encrypted code that is unique to each key. When you open your car doors or pop the trunk, the key sends a signal to the vehicle's onboard computer. The computer then prompts the appropriate frequency and allows you to connect to your car and begin it. The smart key's chip has a number of security features that guard against theft. First, the key emits a low-frequency signal which isn't detected by any receiver but your vehicle. If the computer onboard detects this signal, it will prompt another one that is an individual sequence that only your vehicle can recognize. This will stop a criminal with a high-tech background from using an external generator to "fool" the system and create the key function for other vehicles. Some smart keys have special features, like storing driver preferences, opening windows remotely or the sunroof from afar and many other. These functions can be accessed by activating the proximity sensor on the key fob by pressing a button, or, in some cases it is as simple as twisting a tiny piece of metal inside the key. Certain key fobs are opened by holding the dead key in a slot, or by placing it in proximity to an inductive coil that is located on the dashboard. Some key fobs have an electronic (fully emergency) key blade inside the key. Replacing a key with a smart chip typically requires a visit the dealer, who will either have the replacement in stock or order it for you. The dealer will also have to program the new key to identify your car. But, you can visit a locksmith to have your replacement key fob programmed and replaced. A locksmith may charge more than the dealer, but they'll likely be able to complete the job more quickly and at a lower cost.