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Keys Replacement For Cars You can buy a replacement key for a mechanical one at any hardware shop. This key will need to be programmed either by a dealership or locksmith. Smart keys are more complicated and require a visit to the dealer to connect them to your car. These kinds of keys are usually expensive however some insurance companies will cover the cost. Mechanical Keys You can still purchase car keys that are solely mechanical, the kind that you put into an ignition lock cylinder and then turn to start your vehicle. If your car has one of these keys, replacing the fob and key is relatively inexpensive (if they get lost or stolen). A locksmith can create new keys for less than what you pay at a dealership. You can also ask a neighbor or friend who is able to program transponder keys (which are less expensive than factory keys) to make you a spare key and have it programmed. It is important to have a spare key as modern cars won't start when the key does not have the right chip. Transponder keys appear like mechanical keys, but they are actually equipped with an electronic chip in the base of their plastic shape that communicates with your car's computer system. Your car will recognize the code in the chip and accept it, however it will not start if a different code is used. If your spare key has a chip, you'll need to bring it to a dealership to have it programmed. They will need to use an equipment that can cut the key and then program it. The machines are available at specific dealerships, and it is unlikely that a locksmith have the tools needed to create a key with transponder. Keys with remotes cost a lot to replace, especially if you need an extra. If you have just the shank of your key missing and a functioning replacement fob you can try to reprogramme your fob by yourself. However, it can be time-consuming and challenging. If you've lost your entire key and fob, however it's best to contact a dealer as the best option. There are other types of car keys that require a more specialized set of skills to replace, such as flip keys and smart keys. These are more complicated and must be replaced by the dealer. Some key fobs have a spring-loaded key that folds into the enclosure and opens a door or is operated by the use of a proximity sensor to open and start your car. Transponder Keys If your car was constructed in the last 10 years or so you're likely to use a transponder key system. These keys are equipped with a microchip in the key and an internal receiver in your car that are both programmed to communicate with one another to start the vehicle. Transponder keys are a great 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. replacement car key fobs won't start without the key and the immobilizer system. The key chips come with an unique serial number that is specific to your vehicle. When the key is inserted into your ignition, the serial number is transmitted to the cars immobilizer and verified that it is compatible, it will then allow the engine to start. The only thing that could defeat this security feature is a special device that is able to detect the chip and match it with another vehicle. When you have a transponder key replaced, you'll need to visit an authorized locksmith who has the necessary equipment to reprogram the keys to your car. Some car dealerships provide this service as well but they tend to be more expensive than a independent locksmith because of their overhead. The process of getting a new car keys that comes with a chip it can be a complicated process. The key has to be cut on a specific machine to get the correct tracks in place that can then be programmed to assign the key to your car. It requires specialized software, and the correct key cutter to cut it correctly. The majority of auto parts stores can copy some of the less complicated chips keys, however you must know the serial number from the original key to ensure the correct information is programmed into the key. Many people make the mistake of visiting their dealer to purchase the clone of a chip key and end up paying inflated prices. Laser-Cut Keys Laser-cut keys, also known as sidewinder keys due their distinctive winding cuts to the shank of the key provide an additional layer of security to your vehicle. These keys are a great deterrent to auto theft because they require specialized equipment to duplicate. They also have built-in chips to stop unauthorized key copying from starting your vehicle. They also typically come with a unique code on the key, which must be programmed for your specific vehicle to unlock it and start it. This extra level of security will guard your investment and stop thieves from trying to steal your vehicle for parts or to resell it. Laser-cut keys differ from mechanically-cut keys in terms of design. They have fewer grooves carved out on the key. They also have a larger key shaft which is an excellent indication that it's not your regular car key. Generally, locksmiths use a machine called a milling tool to cut these kinds of keys. This machine is similar to a drill, and it's designed to remove metal with precise angles. These are 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 certified locksmith. They're not like traditional keys. They're constructed from a tiny piece of steel which is made into a code, and then cut using a laser in the factory. This kind of key is able to withstand a lot wear and tear, and is among the best options for protecting your vehicle. Depending on the key, it can fold in the fob or pop out by pressing the button. Keys like these are commonly used in German cars, and provide an additional layer of protection against car thieves. The cylinder is also very resistant to breaking into, making it very difficult for thieves to pick or pick-lock a vehicle. Smart Keys Smart keys communicate with the vehicle via radio-frequency identification (RFID) instead of the conventional single piece of carved metal. This means that they are equipped with a small chip that has an encrypted code that is unique to each key. Whenever you unlock your car's doors or open the trunk the key sends a signal to the vehicle's computer onboard. The computer will then signal the appropriate frequency to allow you to start your car. The chip of the smart key comes with a variety of security features that guard against theft. The key emits a low-frequency signal, which will only be detected by your car. If the onboard computer detects this signal, it will prompt another one that is an individual sequence that only your car can understand. This stops a tech-savvy criminal from using a pulse generator to “fool the system” and do the key work on other vehicles. In addition to locking and starting the car, some smart keys also have additional functions such as storing specific preferences for drivers remotely opening windows, the sunroof, and more. These can be done by activating the key's proximity sensor, pressing a button on the key itself or, in some instances, twisting a small metal component 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 on the dashboard. Some even have an emergency (fully mechanical) key blade concealed in the key to activate this. To replace a smart key, you'll need an appointment with a dealer, where they can purchase the replacement or have it in stock. They'll also need to program the new key to recognize the car you are driving. You can also go to a locksmith for the replacement key fob to be programmed and replaced. Locksmiths may charge more than a dealer, but they'll likely be able to finish the job more quickly and for less.