It wasn’t that long ago that losing or, even worse, misplacing your car keys wasn’t a major concern. Instead, a spare tire might have been mounted to your car in a tiny box and attached to the bumper’s interior. However, cars have become more technologically sophisticated, so they have their keys, and getting new ones can now be more expensive than ever.
Locksmith
If you have lost the keys to your car and need a replacement, you first need to find the vehicle identification number (VIN). This is stamped on your car’s dashboard and listed on the title and insurance paperwork. If you have the VIN, you can easily program a new key for your car at a locksmith. Some locksmiths will also program your key fob if you have one.
If you don’t have the original key, you can get it duplicated at a hardware store. However, this option may not be suitable for your car since most new car models have complex keys that may not be duplicated at a hardware store. In this case, you will need to visit a locksmith specializing in making or servicing auto keys Orlando. Sometimes, your insurance provider may cover the costs of a locksmith’s services if you have lost or broken your car key.
Transponder Key
While transponder keys are more secure, they are not foolproof, and thieves have found ways to break into cars even with these new locks. Fortunately, locksmiths can make a replacement car key for you with the same chip as a transponder. Locksmiths have the same equipment as car dealerships and can program the chip into the key. This process can be costly, but it’s worth it for peace of mind.
To replace your car’s transponder key, you must be able to recognize your car’s model. Also, a technician must link a computer to the vehicle and guide it to learn the new key. The process can take several days, so make sure you know the model and make it before starting the search.
Car Key Fob
A car key fob is a convenient add-on to a car key. It has buttons to lock or unlock the car and can be programmed to function as a regular key if the fob fails to unlock the vehicle. Generally, a key fob costs less than $20 and is easily programmable online. In addition, a spring-loaded key is included in the fob. These can be purchased from an auto parts store or online retailers. The key fob can be used as a backup key if the primary car key is lost or stolen. However, if it does not work properly, you may have to spend time and money getting it replaced.
Switchblade Key
Changing a key fob may be the cheapest and easiest way to get your car running again. While traditional keys are all-metal and require you to insert the key in the ignition cylinder, a switchblade key is a unique combination of the locking and unlocking mechanisms. A locksmith can make it for a modest cost, but you’ll likely need to visit the dealership if you lose your key. If you’ve lost your car key fob, there are two main options for a replacement: a spring-loaded fob or a transponder key. The former requires you to get a new fob, which can cost several hundred dollars. For more convenience, you can get the latter at a dealership. A transponder key has a small chip inside its head, and it signals the ignition system when the key is in the ignition.
