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Keys Replacement For Cars You can buy the replacement key for a mechanical key in any hardware store. The key needs to be programmed by a dealership or locksmith. Smart keys are more complicated and require a visit to the dealer to connect them to your car. They can be expensive, but many car insurance companies will cover the cost. Mechanical Keys You can still buy car keys that are only mechanical, the kind that you put into an ignition lock cylinder, and turn to start your vehicle. If your car is equipped with one of these keys, replacing the fob and key is relatively inexpensive (if they're lost or stolen). A locksmith can cut a basic key for you at a less cost than what you would pay in a dealership. You could also ask a neighbor or a friend who knows how to program transponder keys (which are less expensive than keys that are factory-made) to make you a spare key and have it programmed. A spare key is crucial because modern cars won't begin when a key that isn't programmed with the correct chip is used. Transponder keys are similar to mechanical keys, but they contain an electronic chip within the base. The chip communicates with the computer system of 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 a chip it must be programmed at a dealership. They'll require an equipment that can cut the key and program it. The machines are available at certain dealerships and it is unlikely that a locksmith would have the equipment needed to create a key with transponder. It's costly to replace keys with remotes, especially if you require a spare. If you only have the key shank missing, and a functioning replacement fob you can attempt to reprogramme your fob by yourself. However, it could be time-consuming and difficult. You're better off contacting an expert when you've lost the key and the fob. There are other kinds of car keys that require a more specific set of skills to replace, for example flip keys and smart keys. These are more complex and are usually replaced at the dealership. Some key fobs are operated by proximity sensors or a spring-loaded door opener. Transponder Keys If your car was built in the past 10 years or so, it's likely to use transponder keys. These keys contain a microchip and an electronic receiver that is programmed to communicate with start your vehicle. Transponder keys are a great way of deterring theft, as they require two elements to start the car – the transmitter contained in the key, and the receiver connected to the immobilizer. key replacement won't start without both the key and immobilizer system. The key chips are programmed with a serial number that is unique to your vehicle. The serial number of the key is then sent to the immobilizer in the car, and then checked to match. If it does the engine starts, it will. The only thing that could defeat this security feature is a special device that can read the chip and match it to another car. If you need a transponder-related key replaced it is necessary to visit an authorized locksmith who has the tools needed to reprogram the key into your vehicle. Some car dealerships offer this service, but their overheads make them more expensive than a locksmith who is independent. The process of getting a new car keys with a chip inside it can be a complicated process. To program your car, the key must be programmed on a specific machine. This requires specific software and the right key cutter to be done correctly. Many auto parts stores are able to clone some of the simpler chips keys, however you will need to know the serial number of the original key in order to ensure that the correct data is programmed into the key. Many people make the mistake of visiting their dealer to get a chip key copied and end with a bill that is higher than what they should. Laser-Cut Keys Laser-cut keys, referred to as sidewinder keys because of their distinctive winding cuts to the shank of the key provide an additional layer of security to your vehicle. They are a fantastic security measure against theft of your vehicle because they require specialized machinery to duplicate. Like transponder keys, they feature built-in chips that block unauthorized key copies from getting into your car. They have a unique code that must be programmed to your car to unlock it and start it. This extra layer of security is a fantastic way to protect your investment and deter thieves who may be trying to steal your car for parts or to sell it. Keys cut with lasers differ slightly from mechanically-cut keys in terms of design. They have fewer grooves carved out on the key. The shaft of the key is more substantial, which is another indication that this isn't an ordinary car key. Locksmiths typically employ a machine known as a milling tool to cut these types of keys. This kind of machine appears much like a drill bit and is designed to cut metal at very precise controlled angles. These are the most secure keys that you can purchase for your vehicle. They are difficult to duplicate and can only be done by cut by a certified locksmith or dealer. Unlike traditional keys, they're made using a small piece of steel that is made into a code, and then cut with the laser in the factory. This type of key can withstand a lot wear and tear, and is one of the best options for protecting your vehicle. The key can be folded up into the fob, or it can pop out by pressing the button. These types of keys are typically used in German automobiles and provide an extra layer of security against car thieves. They also make it very difficult for thieves to pick your vehicle or pick-lock it since the cylinder is extremely durable and hard to break into. Smart Keys Keys Smart keys communicate with the vehicle by using radio-frequency identification (RFID) instead of the traditional single piece carved metal. This means that they are equipped with a tiny chip that contains an encrypted code that is unique to each key. The key transmits a message to the computer onboard of your vehicle whenever you unlock the doors or open the trunk. The computer will then prompt the correct frequency to allow you to start your car. The chip of the smart key has several security features to guard it from theft. First the key emits a very low-frequency signal which isn't detected by any other receiver, not even your vehicle. If the computer onboard detects this signal it will send another one that is an exclusive code that only your vehicle can comprehend. This stops a cyber-savvy criminal from using an external generator to “fool” the system and make the key work for other vehicles. Some smart keys offer specific features, like saving preferences for drivers remote opening windows, opening the sunroof via remote, and many more. These are accomplished by activating the key fob's proximity sensor by pressing a button on the key itself or, in certain cases, twisting a small metal component inside the key. Certain key fobs are opened by placing the dead key in a slot or by placing it next to an inductive coil on the dashboard. Some even include an emergency (fully mechanical) key blade hidden in the key to enable this. To replace a smart key, you'll need a trip to the dealer, where they can order the replacement or have it in stock. They'll also have to program the new key to recognize your car. You can also go to a locksmith for your replacement key fob to be programmed and then replaced. A locksmith might charge more than a dealer, but they'll likely be able to do the job more quickly and at a lower cost.