Losing your car key is more complicated than it was decades ago. With a regular key, you could make a spare key at nearly no cost, at any local hardware store or locksmith, or even at your dealership. But a transponder key is something else altogether. If you’ve misplaced your transponder key for good, replacing it will be pricey. Depending on the automaker, and on the complexity of the key’s design, the price tag for replacing your electronic fob will range from somewhat costly to exceptionally expensive. Some dealerships will reprogram your key fob for free, but most will charge a lot.
For some cars, the transponder key is an all-in-one unit including the fob. It’s also called a laser-cut key. The shank is slightly thicker, with fewer carved-out grooves. They’re also called “sidewinder” keys, because of the shank’s winding cut feature. The dealership will probably need to program a laser-cut key’s built-in chip.
A switchblade key is a transponder key with a shank, but this one folds into the fob, which you pop out by pressing a button. A switchblade key has either a laser cut or a basic cut. One benefit to a switchblade key is that you can buy its components separately; but if you’ve really lost your key, you’ll need to program both parts.
A smart key isn’t a key at all ~ not in the ordinary sense. It’s just a fob. You either insert it into the dash, or, you can keep in your pocket or purse. When you get behind the wheel, just by pressing a button, you can start up and turn off the engine. A smart key gives you extraordinary protection because of its rolling security codes. Continuously randomizing the correct code, it stops a car thief from hacking it with a code grabber. Your car dealership can replace your smart key.
Has your transponder key been stolen?
When you first purchased your vehicle, you should have gotten two transponder keys. So it’s likely you can get your other transponder key from a family member who has the additional copy, and this will get you back on the road for now. But remember, since your transponder key is connected only to your automobile, a would-be car thief who comes across your key could take your automobile without any effort. It’s really best to go ahead and get a replacement, and reprogram them both.
To get a transponder key made, reprogrammed, or replaced, you’ll have to track down an automotive locksmith specialist, or go directly to the dealership. In most cases, a locksmith will cost less than the dealership will. If you’re located in Everett, Washington, then it’s a good idea to take all your questions regarding transponder keys to a reputable locksmith company. For example, the mobile automotive locksmith specialists on staff at Everett Lock and Key are glad to provide you with a free consultation.
