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A Brief Guide — Replacing Your Car Key
Misplacing the car key is very agitating, especially when you need to attend to some impromptu meeting or you are late for work. Losing your car key is another game altogether. It is inconveniencing at best.
Times are changing, technology is advancing every day, and cars are being modeled differently. The past methods of replacing lost or stolen car keys may not be applicable today. Replacing your lost car key may cost you more than you could imagine, depending on the date and model of the car. However, with the help of a local locksmith, you can get it replaced in no time.
The most popular key types have been discussed below and how they can be replaced:
The Traditional Car Key
This is a standard key in the automobile industry. It is mechanical, the car can only be operated manually by inserting the key into the ignition cylinder to start the car. This one is simple to replace. In case you lost car key, just call a locksmith to make you a new key on the spot. When a locksmith cannot make a new key, you will be forced to purchase a new ignition cylinder and its key from any auto dealers near you.
Your Car’s Key Fob
A key fob is a term meant to describe key chains and other add-ons, which are similar devices like remote car starters and garage door openers. They are used to unlock and lock the car doors remotely as a convenience. However, you still need the traditional car key to start the car manually.
If the key fob gets lost, you can still use the car key to unlock your car and start it. To replace your fob, you can purchase one from a reliable locksmith, auto dealerships, online or auto parts outlets. They are cheap and easy to program even if you do not possess special skills.
The Switchblade Key Fob
This is a combination of the car key and the key fob. It is designed in a way that allows the car key to fold into the fob when the key is not in use. It is spring loaded to allow you to release the key by pressing a button. To replace it, you can purchase it from a reliable locksmith or at dealerships only, where it is cut and programmed immediately.
A Transponder Key
This is an anti-theft ignition key with an embedded computer chip in its plastic head. The chip transmits a low signal that the vehicle’s special device near the switch can detect only when the key is in the ignition switch. The car will engage only after successful connection.
Replacing the car involves towing it to the dealership or a local locksmith shop and providing proof of ownership than purchasing a new key. The dealer or locksmith then electronically pairs the new chip to your vehicle. It is costly.
Smart Key
Smart keys allow electronic access and authorization for the operation of the vehicle, which has a start button. The proximity sensor enables the unlock when it detects the paired smart key nearby. On losing the key, you must tow the vehicle to the dealership and buy another key, which must be paired to your vehicle. It is in fact expensive.
Always have a backup key or call the locksmith immediately you realize you lost your car key.