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Getting a Key Replacement Car Key Isn't As Costly As You Think Everybody knows someone who always appears to lose their car keys. It's not as costly as you think to buy a new key or key fob. Start by checking your owner's manual to see if you can reset the key fob yourself (usually involves pressing a few buttons in a specific order). Then, look over your car insurance policy or bumper-to bumper warranty coverage to see whether it will cover the cost of a replacement. auto key replacement or Stolen Keys In the past it wasn't a huge issue to lose your car keys. If you had spare keys key, it was simple to get a replacement from any locksmith or hardware store and even at a car dealership. However, advancements in key fob technology have made it more difficult to steal a car, and consequently it's becoming more expensive to replace a lost or stolen car key. You can find a new key for your car based on the kind you lost or stolen. If you own a classic, double-edged, traditional key, you can find a replacement at any hardware store or a locksmith for less than 20 dollars. If your key is equipped with chip inside or is integrated into a smart key, key fob or switchblade keys, you'll need to purchase a new key from the dealer. With a key that is entirely mechanical locksmiths can duplicate the key by choosing the right key blank for your year, model and model, then trace the original contours using a machine onsite. For the majority of models, it only takes about a minute for a professional locksmith to complete. If your key is a smart key or has the switchblade feature then you must have it towed to the dealer and provide evidence of ownership. Then, the dealer can attach a computer chip into the new key to your vehicle. It could take a few days depending on whether the dealer has the key in stock or needs to purchase it. If your vehicle is taken away, or if your key has gone missing and you're not sure it's been taken by someone else, contact the police. They can confirm the serial numbers on the keys you lost and help you locate the missing key. If you have an additional key, bring it to the locksmith or dealer so they can reprogram your car's locks and ignition to prevent unauthorized use of your vehicle. If you don't own a backup key, it is recommended to first file a claim through your home insurance. Keys that are damaged Keys Contact a locksmith right away in case you're having trouble opening or starting your vehicle because the key is damaged. A professional locksmith will be able to handle the problem without further damaging the lock or the key. They will be able restore the key's cuts and ensure that it is able to fit inside the lock. They will then match the key up with the correct transponder and then program it into your car with an instrument that is specifically designed for this purpose. The majority of the time, the time your key is damaged the reason is that it was inserted in the lock incorrectly or has been exposed to extreme pressure from being twisted or bent in the wrong spot for too long. Some people have reported that their keys were damaged when they dropped them or put it on the hot seat in their car. A power surge or a fire could also cause damage to the key. It's important to note that only a locksmith with a certificate can fix your damaged key. If you choose to use an unauthentic, low-cost replacement key, it's likely to malfunction, and you will end up spending more money over time. A certified locksmith can make an entirely new key for you that conforms to meet the specifications of your vehicle. You can save money on the cost of a dealer key by finding a locksmith close to you. If you own an advanced key (like one that is smart) then you'll have to bring it to a dealer for replacement. You'll be asked for proof of ownership of your vehicle and the dealer will have to pair the new key electronically with your car. This can take a few days, and will cost you. If you're budget-conscious, you may want to think about calling roadside assistance instead. They'll tow your car to the nearest dealer that has the key type you require and then arrange for it. This will reduce the cost of towing and the cost of a new key, but it can take longer than an locksmith. Keyless Entry Systems If you're a vehicle owner with a keyless entry system, getting a replacement for lost or stolen keys fob can be more expensive than a regular key. The reason is that fobs have a special chip that identifies radio signals generated by the vehicle in order to open its doors. Fobs are generally more secure than regular keys as they are only activated within just a few feet of the vehicle and don't have any exposed metal to activate doors. This makes them harder to be stolen and more resistant to tampering. Keyless entry systems have numerous benefits that make them a popular choice in a wide range of spaces from residential dwellings to commercial office buildings. They can be managed and monitored remotely which allows businesses to allow access to employees and visitors by simply clicking a mouse. The audit trail of each user is also available which helps reduce the risk of liability and aid in proving due diligence in the event of an incident of security. One method to ensure that your keyless entry system operating properly is to upgrade the software frequently, which will prevent your security from being exposed to hackers and other illegal intrusions. Maintaining the system will ensure that it operates effectively and reliably. Some of the features that distinguish a keyless system from traditional systems are advanced encryption, smartphone compatibility and biometric authentication. A fingerprint scanner can, for instance, ensure that only authorized individuals can access vehicles and other assets that are considered to be sensitive. A proximity badge reader, on the other hand can verify identity prior to unlocking a doorway. The most popular type of keyless entry system that is found in modern cars is the remote keyless entry (RKE) system that uses a transmitter built into the car's key fob or integrated into the ignition of your car to open the doors. The system can be activated by simply pressing the button on the fob's key or using a keypad located inside the car. Some keyless entry systems include a motorized system that unlocks the car door when the correct code has been entered on a touchscreen. Transponder Keys A transponder car keys contains an electronic microchip built inside the head of the key. Also referred to chip keys, they are designed to protect against theft of vehicles and immobilizer system failures by sending a unique identification code to the vehicle's antenna ring when it is inserted into the ignition lock cylinder. The code is a unique combination of letters and numbers that are only read by the car's transmitter when the key is inserted into the ignition and turned to ON. The transponder in the key of your car has non-volatile memory. This means that it retains the information even if you remove it from the ignition. A locksmith trained in programming your car's computer can match the unique code generated by the key transponder with the immobilizer's data. In this process the locksmith will make sure they have the right key blanks for your car's model and the model. Certain brands require locksmiths to use specialized tools to clone a key from your vehicle and others permit you to program the key yourself with simple tools and a manual. Transponder keys do not contain batteries, but they are powered by radio signals sent by the immobilizer of the car when the key is within close proximity to the receiver. As a result, the key isn't able to be duplicated using a regular key copying device since the transmissions are too weak. Although it's more expensive than a standard metal key the car transponder key offers additional security and can deter thieves. If you are concerned about your car being stolen and don't want to deal with the inconvenience of having it returned an uncut metal key might be cheaper. It's important that you consult an expert locksmith in NYC who is familiarized with your car key requirements. Based on your requirements, they may recommend either a transponder key or a non-transponder key. This is why it's a good idea to partner with an auto locksmith that offers 24/7 emergency services within the Five Boroughs.