Auto Key Repair Near Me
It's almost impossible to know when you'll lose your car keys. When it does happen it's usually at the worst time of the day.
You could call your dealership and ask them to create you a new key, but they will charge you astronomical amounts of money. In addition, they may not have the key you require.
Lost Keys
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big issue. You could get a replacement for it quickly and easily at the locksmith. However, as cars have become more technologically advanced, so are their keys, and replacing one can be a costly undertaking. Depending on the type of key you have to gain access to your vehicle can take several steps and cost hundreds of dollars, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD.
Lost car keys happen for many reasons, but mostly they occur when you're in hurry or distracted and don't make sure you've accounted for your keys. It is essential to keep a spare set keys in a secure location and to go back through the steps you took if you've lost them.
Start by thinking back to the last time you've had them, and then check every place you could have put them. Look in your pockets, the floor of your car (including the trunk) or your desk at work or wherever else you could have been sitting.
Also, think about whether you have given the spare key to anyone. If you did, contact the person to find out whether your key has been located. Also, don't forget to search in your home, too--keys are usually hidden under couch cushions or over mail stacks.
If you haven't found your keys then the next step is to determine the kind of key you have and who you should contact to change it. In certain cases, you may have to go to the dealer to get a new key made, particularly if yours has a transponder chip, or other technology that needs programming.
A locksmith will usually give you a replacement key on the spot if the key is old-fashioned. In most cases you will have to bring the registration or title of your car or other evidence of ownership to the dealership. Also, you'll need a copy of your photo ID as well as any other keys you may have.
Transponder Keys
If you own a vehicle made in the past decade or two it's likely that your key comes with transponder chip. These chips are designed to deter car thefts by ensuring that only the owner is able to start the vehicle. They function by transmitting a signal via the key to an antenna ring located on the cylinder of ignition. The computer in your vehicle will then compare the "password" which is transmitted from the key, to a list of authorized codes and if the code is found to match, the engine will start.
Transponder keys can be extremely useful, but they can also present some issues when it comes to losing them or getting them stolen. They are difficult to duplicate because of their unique microchip. The only method to duplicate the transponder's key is using an original key that has already been programmed. This can be done by a professional locksmith, the local dealership of the manufacturer or a reputable automotive shop.
Although it is possible to program some transponder keys yourself, most people prefer to hire professionals to do the task. This is because the process requires numerous steps and each vehicle's antitheft mechanism functions differently. The process is best completed by a professional can help to ensure that the new key will be correctly programmed and will function correctly.
Transponder keys must be maintained to ensure that they continue to function as intended. This means keeping it clear of extreme temperatures or in water and avoiding dropping it. If you do accidentally drop your key, it's best to see a professional locksmith or car manufacturer's local dealership as soon as possible to have it replaced.
While it's a little easier to replace a mechanical key, you should always have a spare transponder key. You will avoid the hassle and cost of having your car's computer reset in the event that you lose your only key. This is because the anti-theft devices that are built into the majority of automobiles will require the original key to be programmed and this is long and time-consuming.
Key Fobs
It may seem a bit absurd to consider that your key fob is at risk of failure, but it isn't entirely uncommon. Fobs are composed of batteries and circuits, which are susceptible to damage by a variety of causes. Unexpected shocks, exposure to water or liquids, and abrupt shocks can all cause them to cease functioning.
Fortunately, a lot of issues that may result from key fobs are fairly easy to fix. The first thing to look into is the battery, which can be replaced at an hardware store or large retailer that sells automotive batteries. If it's not the battery, the issue could be due to worn-out contacts inside the fob that hinder it from communicating with the receiver inside the vehicle. They are typically made of rubbery material and covered with an electrically conductive film. This can wear off over time due to frequent use. It is possible to clean them by removing the fob, and disassembling it. Then, by carefully soldering contacts back into place will make them functional again.
In certain instances all that is required is to reprogramme the fob to connect it to the car's transmitter. This is usually accomplished through a procedure that is described in the owner's manual, or through online research of your specific model of car. If you're unable to locate the correct instructions for the specific model of your car then a dealer or an independent shop that specializes on the type of vehicle you have will be able to help.
Some cars, particularly older ones with less advanced security systems, let owners purchase replacement fobs from specialized retailers or online vendors and follow a process to program them by themselves. This is a cheaper alternative to visiting a dealer. However it is only available for cars that don't need special security protocols. For instance, Audi and Subaru dealerships aren't able to use aftermarket fobs to reprogram cars equipped with digital encryption systems according to CR.
Some key fobs that are made by aftermarket manufacturers may be difficult to program into your car. As such some dealers aren't willing to work with aftermarket fobs and will only accept a brand new one from the manufacturer of the vehicle.
Bluetooth Key Trackers
A Bluetooth tracker (also called key finder) is a small device that you can attach to your items like your keys or wallet. The app that you use on your smartphone will remain connected to the tracker for as long as the device is within range once you connect it using Bluetooth. If you lose the item you can trigger it to ring by pressing the button on the tracker. You can use the tracking feature of your phone to see an image of the last location.
Most Bluetooth trackers run on rechargeable batteries. Depending on the model, this can make life easier since you can keep your device fully charged and available at all times to locate items you've lost. But, you'll have to pay attention to battery life as these devices are known to drain the battery faster than regular.
Another aspect to consider when purchasing a Bluetooth key tracker is whether it is encrypted to protect your location data. car key fob repairs don't and you could be vulnerable if your company is compromised and your data is stolen. Luckily, most manufacturers do encrypt this data. However, you should read the fine print before purchasing a product. This information could help a criminal gain access to your vehicle or home.