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Why Key Replacement Car Is So Helpful For COVID-19
Getting a Key Replacement Car Key Isn't As Costly As You Think

Everyone has a friend who is always losing their car keys. Finding a replacement key, or key fob doesn't need to be as expensive as people think.

Check your owner's guide to see if the key fob can be reset yourself (usually requires pressing a few keys in a certain order). Make sure to check your car insurance policy or bumper-to-bumper warranty for coverage of the cost of a new key fob.

Keys stolen or lost

In the past, it wasn't a big issue to lose your car keys. It was simple to replace a lost or stolen car key if you had one. It was possible to do this at any hardware store, locksmith, or even a dealership. But advances in technology for key fobs have made it much harder to steal a car, as a result it's becoming more expensive to replace a lost or stolen car key.

There are several different types of keys used in automobiles and the method of getting a new one depends on the kind of key you've lost or stolen. If you have a classic double-edged traditional key, you can get an alternative from any hardware store or from locksmiths for less than 20 bucks. If your key is embedded with a chip, or integrated into a key fob, switchblade or smart key, you'll need to purchase a new key from the dealer.

A locksmith can duplicate the mechanical key by picking the right key blank for the year model, make, and year of your vehicle and then tracing its original contours in the field. For most models, it only takes about a minute for a professional to do.

If your key has a smart chip or switchblade, it will be necessary to tow it to the dealership. You'll also need to prove ownership. The dealer will then pair the chip of your computer in the new key with your vehicle. It could take several weeks, depending on whether or not the dealer has your key in stock.

Call the police if you suspect that your vehicle was stolen or you have lost your key and are not sure whether it was stolen by another person. They can confirm the serial numbers on your keys that were stolen and assist you in locating the missing key. If you have an extra key, take it to the locksmith or dealership so they can reprogram the locks on your vehicle and ignition to stop any unauthorized use of your car. If you don't have an additional key, it's best to first file a claim with your insurance company for your home.

Damaged Keys

Call a locksmith immediately if you are having trouble opening or starting your car because the key is damaged. A professional locksmith can handle the problem without further damaging the lock or key. They'll be able restore the cuts on the keys so it can fit into your lock. They'll match up the key with the proper transponder that is appropriate for your car and then program it into your car using a tool specifically designed for this purpose.

If your key is damaged most times, it's either because it was inserted incorrectly in the lock or because it was bent or twisted in the wrong direction for too long. Some report that their keys were damaged when they dropped them or left it on the hot seat of their car. A power surge or a fire can also damage the key.

If your key has been damaged, it's crucial to be aware that only a certified locksmith can repair it. If you try to make a cheap, generic replacement key, it will likely not function and end with a higher cost in the long run.

A locksmith with a certification can create keys that match the exact specifications of your vehicle. They can also save you a lot of money over the dealership price, so it's definitely worth your while to find locksmiths near you.

If replacement car keys have a more advanced key, like one that is smart, you'll have to visit the dealer to have it replaced. You'll be asked for proof of vehicle ownership and the dealer will be required to pair the new key electronically with your car. This can take several days and will be costly. If you're on a tight budget you might want to consider calling roadside assistance instead. They'll tow your vehicle to the nearest dealership that has the type of key you require and then order it for you. This will save you money on towing and the cost of a new key but it could take longer than a locksmith.

Keyless Entry Systems

If you're a car owner who has a keyless entry system, getting a replacement for lost or stolen keys fob can be more expensive than with a regular key. This is because fobs contain an exclusive chip that can recognize radio signals sent by the vehicle to open its doors. Fobs are typically more secure than regular keys because they can only be activated within only a few feet from the vehicle and do not contain any metal that could activate a door lock. This makes them harder to steal and less prone to tampering.

Keyless entry systems have numerous benefits that make them popular in a variety of locations from residential dwellings to commercial office buildings. They can be controlled and monitored remotely which allows businesses to allow access to employees and visitors with the click of on a mouse. Detailed audit trails are available for every user, which helps companies avoid liability and prove due diligence in the case of a security breach.


Regular software updates will ensure that your keyless system functioning properly. This will help protect your system from hackers and other unauthorized intrusions. Maintaining the system will ensure that it functions effectively and efficiently.

Some of the features that make a keyless system different from other systems include advanced encryption, smartphone compatibility and biometric authentication. A fingerprint scanner, for example, can ensure that only authorized people are able to access vehicles and other sensitive assets. A proximity badge reader however can confirm identity prior to unlocking the front door.

The most commonly used type of keyless entry system used in automobiles today is the remote keyless entry (RKE) system that uses the transmitter embedded into the car key fob or integrated into the ignition of the car to open the doors. The system can also be activated by clicking a button on the fob's key or using a keypad inside the car. Additionally, some keyless entry systems come with an electronic system that opens the door once the right code is entered on the touchscreen panel.

Transponder Keys

A transponder car keys contains an electronic microchip embedded into the head of the key. Also referred to chip keys, they are created to protect against theft of vehicles and immobilizer system failures through sending an unique identification code to the vehicle's antenna ring when inserted into the ignition lock cylinder. The code is a specific combination of numbers and letters that can only be detected by the car's radio transmitter when the key is put in the ignition and turned to ON.

The transponder that is on your car key is a non-volatile memory, which means that it keeps information even when you remove the key from the ignition. A locksmith trained in programming your car's computer can match the unique code transmitted by the key transponder to the immobilizer information. During this procedure the locksmith will verify that they have the correct key blanks for your car's model and make. Certain brands require the locksmith to make use of specialized equipment to copy an existing key from your vehicle, whereas others can be programmed by the owner using an instruction manual and a few basic tools.

The transponder key doesn't have a battery, but the information stored on the microchip is fueled by radio signals which are transmitted through the immobilizer of the car when the key is near the receiver. The transmissions are so weak that a standard key copying machine can't duplicate the key.

A car transponder is more expensive, but it gives added security and can discourage thieves. However, if you're worried about your car being stolen, and don't care too much about the hassle of getting it back the simple flat metal key might be more affordable for you. It's essential to talk with a locksmith in NYC who is knowledgeable of the requirements for your car keys. They may suggest a transponder or non-transponder car key depending on your needs. This is why it's a great idea to choose an auto locksmith who provides 24-hour emergency services in the Five Boroughs.

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