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4 Dirty Little Secrets About The Replacement Keys Car Industry
How to Get Replacement Keys For Your Car

If a car key is damaged or is lost, it's time to get an alternative. There are many options to choose from for auto locksmiths, such as roadside assistance.

The most straightforward type of new car keys to replace are the traditional double-edged type that most people still use. These can be made at a hardware store for about $10.

Transponder Keys

Transponder chips, in contrast to traditional keys, have electronic circuits that communicate with your car. When you insert your key into the ignition, the chip sends an electronic signal to the vehicle that matches the code it has stored. When the codes are in sync the engine is started. This is a great security feature that deters thieves from trying to hot wire your vehicle.

If you lose your transponder or it is stolen, you'll have to visit locksmiths to get the replacement. These professionals have specialized equipment to clone the chip of your current key and then program it to the new key. This procedure is more costly and complicated than just getting an ordinary key for your car, however it is the only way to guarantee that your car will start.

If you're in a tight spot and have to replace the transponder key that you lost be sure that the expert you hire has experience with your particular vehicle. They will need to be able identify the specific model and immobilizer mechanism of your vehicle. This will ensure that the new key matches the ignition properly and is compatible with the other security features.

key replacement for car are unaware that they can get their remote car keys copied by a locksmith instead of at an auto dealership. A locksmith can program your car key with the same technology as the dealership at a fraction of the cost.

Many people visit an auto dealer when they break or lose their key. This is a mistake since you'll be charged more than have if you had an independent locksmith. The dealership also has higher overheads, and thus will charge more.

Regardless of the type of car key you have, it's always recommended to look for the most affordable price. If you're in a rush it might be worth the extra cost to choose a locksmith that offers an emergency service that is available 24 hours a day. Be sure to confirm that the professional you choose is licensed and insured before hiring them.

Laser-Cut Keys

You might have noticed if you recently bought a newer car that keys are different from keys found on older vehicles. Most modern cars require keys that are laser cut. These keys are also known as a sidewinder. They are produced using lasers which can cut deeper than mechanical keys. They are also more durable and can be hard to duplicate.

If a person is able to get their hands on one of these keys, they'll have to get it programmed to their particular vehicle to allow it to work. This can be accomplished by a locksmith or a dealership. The process of creating a new key can be done easily and is usually cheaper than replacing the standard key.

Laser-cut keys are a step above a standard transponder chip key because they come with an integrated security system in. The key emits a signal which is sent to the vehicle's computers, which then sends the signal to the ignition and lock. This allows the driver to open the doors and start the engine, similar to a regular key would.

This kind of key is more costly and complicated to manufacture, as it requires special equipment that isn't easily accessible at hardware stores. This is what makes them an ideal alternative to traditional keys and also more expensive for thieves to acquire.

Laser-cut keys offer an extra layer of security for vehicles. They are harder to pick or bump than traditional keys. They they also have unique key patterns that help to reduce the risk of using the same key on multiple vehicles. These keys are not easy to duplicate, as the process requires a high-tech key cutting machine as well as a sophisticated software. This makes them more secure and a worthwhile purchase for car owners. The keys can be purchased on the internet or at any Ace Hardware. Use the store locator tool to locate a store near you.

Double-edged keys

Some cars use double-edge keys with cuts on both sides of the key. These keys can be more difficult to select because they require a tool that cuts both sides of the key. These keys are sometimes called symmetrical cut key. They are more prevalent on older models of vehicles however they are also found in vending machines, lock boxes, and padlocks with higher security.

If you lose a double-edged key you must bring it to a dealer to have a new one made. The cost will be based on the kind of key, the year it was made, as well as if there is a remote or fob connected to it.

Most modern key systems include transponders in the key head that communicates with the car to check whether the key is genuine and able to start it. They are more difficult to steal and are marketed as theft deterrents. These keys are typically more expensive than mechanical keys, and will need to be programmed at an authorized dealer.

Locksmiths can be cheaper than dealers. No matter which one you choose it is essential to make sure that they have the right tools to work on your specific vehicle. The best place to begin is to examine the keyway profile of the new key versus your current one. The key shank should be the same distance from the shoulder to the tip as the key you have currently.

In some cases dealers will have to order a replacement key. However, it is possible to find a spare key at an independent auto parts store or on the internet. If you decide to purchase a spare key be aware that the quality can vary wildly. The key you purchase may not fit properly and could cause a misfire or other problems when it's not designed specifically for your vehicle.

A few years back, many car manufacturers began offering smart keys which allow drivers to open and start their car by pressing the button. They're usually more expensive to replace if lost and are usually advertised as a way to deter theft. If you own a smart key and a fob, be prepared to shell out between $200 to $500 for replacement at a dealership in the event that you lose the key.

Keyless Entry

Typically, they are found on newer vehicles, these are the most convenient keys. They emit a signal that allows the driver to unlock and start the car without needing to insert the key. They also control other features like rolling down windows, opening the trunk, and even recording presets for memory seats. Fortunately, these kinds keys are fairly easy to replace for the typical car owner. However, if you do lose your key fob it can be a lot more complicated to find someone who will help you.


You should visit the dealer if you need to replace a key fob with a transponder. You'll probably need to order an alternative and connect it with your vehicle which could mean a few days wait before you can use it again. If you're in a pinch it could be cheaper to call a locksmith for your car and ask them to cut and program your spare key for you.

Another way to save money on replacement keys is to purchase a used one from a retailer or other source. You can get them for less than what you'd buy from a dealership. Some are even a fraction of what a brand new key costs. However, you should always verify the condition of the key and the key fob to make sure they're working properly.

Some key fobs have the metal part of an old-fashioned key encased in plastic. This lets you lock and unlock your vehicle by pressing a button. These key fobs are usually less expensive than other kinds of fobs. However, you'll still need to use the metal key in order to start your car.

You can program some key fobs using the instructions in the owner's manual. Others require specialized equipment that's usually only available at a dealer. If you lose yours you'll have to get it towed to the dealership and show proof of ownership before they are able to replace it. This could be very costly, especially in the event that you don't have a backup key it's best to keep a spare key in an accessible location in all times.

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