Being locked out of your car could be one of the most traumatic experiences. It can also ruin your day, especially when you’re trying to get to work or somewhere.
A locksmith can help you unlock your car without harming it. They make use of tools such as key extractors and Slim-Jim tools to unlock door locks.
1. Traditional Keys
It’s only natural to feel fear when you lose your keys. After all, it’s your only means of getting to where you’re going. Fortunately, locksmiths are well-trained to deal with this type of situation and can help you make new ones as swiftly and efficiently as possible. Locksmiths can also assist you to make backup keys in case you are worried about losing your key fob.
The best locksmiths will be able to identify the type of key your vehicle needs, and can even give advice on how to protect it. They’ll need to know the model, make and key number of your car to determine the type of key you need. It is also essential to let them know what kind of key you own as certain types are more complicated and costly than others.
Traditional keys are flat, metal blanks that have notches cut into the sides of them and can be inserted into the lock in one direction. They’re the kind you see in hardware stores and can be duplicated easily with a locksmith, but they’re not as secure as modern keys.
Laser cut keys have a similar look like traditional keys, however they are more durable and come with a different appearance. These keys are thicker and more durable, with a groove that can only be inserted in a single direction. These kinds of keys are more secure and tougher to pick, however they’re more expensive to make than traditional keys.
The majority of modern vehicles use key fobs. These are tiny remotes that come with a software that opens your doors and also starts the engine. They also have the option of a push-to-start. They’re a convenient and safe option for anyone who frequently forgets their keys, however they’re more difficult to replace if they’re lost or stolen.
They are more complex than conventional car keys and require specialized equipment to be programmed. The VIN (vehicle identification number) of your vehicle is required by locksmiths to determine the type of key you have and how to program an alternative. The VIN on the driver’s side doorpost or stamped on a metal plate that is placed in front of the steering wheel. The locksmith will need your key code. This is usually printed inside the ignition.
2. Key Fobs
Modern automobiles require a fob in order to start and operate. This kind of car key has an electronic chip inside it that communicates with the car whenever you push a button on the fob. If the code on the chip and the frequency of the fob match, the door unlocks. Fobs could also contain buttons that control panic and lockout modes, or LED indicators to show the status of the door.
Fobs are a convenient and easy way to unlock your car. However they require additional hardware to function correctly. If you’re planning on getting a new key fob, consider working with an locksmith for your automotive instead of a dealership. They’ll be capable of programming the key fob so it is compatible with your specific vehicle. And since these professionals are educated to deal with delicate computer equipment, they’ll be more likely to protect your vehicle from damage that could be caused by the programming process.
There are a variety of aftermarket fobs on the internet, however they are not always compatible with all cars. Certain dealers, such as Audi and Subaru dealerships, inform CR they can’t accept fobs from aftermarket suppliers and must reprogram the original key fobs to work with them. If you want a cheaper alternative, you can check the owner’s manual of your vehicle to determine whether the key fob can be programmed by pressing an array of buttons or turning the ignition key.
Some replacement fobs can only be programmed by a dealer for cars however, most auto locksmiths are capable of doing so. Locksmiths may need purchase tokens to program a keyfob. This cost is often included in the programming cost.
If you have a spare key, it’s a good idea keep it with you at all times in the event that your key fob gets lost or stolen. You can contact an emergency locksmith if you are ever stranded. They’ll be capable of connecting to your car via the OBD port and utilize commercially-available software to program the key fob, or take out old fobs.
3. Transponder Keys
Transponder chips are usually found in cars manufactured within the last 20-years. This is a wonderful feature as it stops thieves from using hot wires to connect your vehicle and allowing it to start without the key. However, it’s not completely secure since thieves have evolved and discovered new ways to steal cars, even with the transponder technology that is in place.
Transponder keys are only used with specific key fobs or the key that you have in your car keys locksmith. The chip in your key contains a unique code. It relays the code to the immobilizer when you turn your key into the ignition. The immobilizer then relays the code to the engine, which it starts the car.
The problem is that most transponder keys can be copied using specialized equipment by a professional locksmith. This equipment is expensive and many prefer to buy an existing transponder key that has been programmed by the local dealership using OBP (on board programming).
It’s a good option, but you should be aware that the dealer will charge more than an auto locksmith. The reason is that they will have to purchase a high-tech piece of equipment that can program your key. They also have to pay their employees.
Another thing that you should be aware of is that the locksmith near me will have a lot more experience than the dealership when it comes to dealing with automobiles. They deal with them every day. Therefore, they are in a position to provide higher prices and speedier service.
If you’re not worried about duplicate keys being made by someone else your car key and you don’t want to worry about it, then a non-transponder keys is the best option for you. Transponder keys are a great option if you’re looking to get a more secure key that will not work with most duplicators. No matter which type of key you select, it is recommended to always call a local locksmith to help you with any issues you might have.
4. Smart Keys Keys
Perhaps the most exciting and useful innovation in car keys since the 1990s, smart keys appear like remote control key fobs but are equipped with additional features. Smart keys allow you to unlock your car remotely, use your smartphone to enable convenience features like Welcome Motion and unlock it from afar. Smart keys also utilize low-frequency technology to communicate with your car and require a certain range to start it. They can also notify you that their battery is low.
They’re more expensive than traditional keys and fobs but they’re worth it if you don’t want to deal with the hassle of losing a key or locking it in your trunk. You can have a smart key made at your car dealer, but an automotive locksmith near me for cars with the right equipment and software will cost less.
You can even have a duplicate smart key for people who need access to your vehicle, like employees or pet sitters during specific hours. This feature is especially handy when you’re in a state of confusion about where you’ve placed your keys.
Locksmiths can assist you if you require a new car key or old one has stopped working. Hire a professional and reputable locksmith, and preferably one that has an A+ BBB score. Also, don’t hesitate to ask for proof of licensing and insurance.
Cars are stolen or lost at the most inconvenient times, like when you’re at a gas station or putting your groceries into your trunk. It’s important to keep a spare car key in a secure place such as in your pocket, or in the possession of someone in your family or a friend who is able to take you to the airport when you keep your keys in your vehicle.
