Car Keys Replacement Cost
A few years ago, losing your keys to your car wasn't a big deal. You could take your spare key to a key cutting shop for an alternative that cost less than $10.
Nevertheless the process has become more complicated and costly. Find out more about the various kinds of keys for cars and what they will cost you to replace.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob is an remote control as well as an actual key in one. It's tiny, plastic device with a button you can press to unlock doors and hatchbacks, open the trunk, open windows, roll them down and, possibly, even start the vehicle. The key fob also has an embedded electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard computer system to control functions like the starter.
Basic key fobs are usually constructed from plastic that is standard, and use a regular lock and key mechanism. They are identical to those found on old Pontiacs as well as Saturns. A basic key fob could cost anything from $50 to $100, but the actual cost comes when you have to replace a damaged or lost one.
You'll probably need to visit a dealer if your vehicle is more than five years old. Most newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or a key shop typically can perform this task for less, though.
The cost of your fob could also depend on the type you have. Older cars use mechanical keys, whereas the most recent models typically have transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of keys can have a wide range of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the vehicle in a controlled manner to rolling codes that change regularly to stop thieves from stealing and stealing the key fob information of your car.
Online key fobs may be less expensive than the ones you can buy at the dealer, but they might not be compatible with your car. Some manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru, have security chips inside their key fobs that block them from working with third-party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in however there's a high possibility that it won't work.
You can find information about programming your key fob by visiting the site of the manufacturer or in the owner's guide. It's worth trying this yourself before going to the dealership or hiring an expert locksmith to do it. You can also check your vehicle's warranty, roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance coverage to determine if they cover the costs of a replacement fob for your key.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are found in the majority of newer automobiles. These keys have an embedded chip in the head which transmits an information to the vehicle after it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and begin the engine. This type of key is more secure than conventional flat metal keys due to a transponder chip prevents the car from starting if it does not receive an appropriate signal from the key. This technology was developed to prevent theft of cars since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the right equipment.
Additionally, many vehicles also come with immobilizer systems that stop them from starting when keys that are not transponder compatible are used. Car thieves have come up with methods of stealing cars with transponder key systems.
A locksmith is usually able to help you replace a lost or damaged transponder key. They'll need details about your car like the VIN number and model. Then they will cut a new key or program the current one to your car's security system. This process is a bit more expensive than getting a car dealership to cut and program a new key.
Some automotive stores like AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and copy transponder keys, but they aren't capable of reprogramming chips in the key. It is best to call an experienced and reputable locksmith company if you want to be sure that a professional is able to handle the task.
Before the invention of this technology, it was relatively simple to create duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a car. This was a method used to steal cars and it allowed criminals drive away with stolen vehicles. The introduction of the transponder key has drastically reduced this crime however, it's not completely eliminated.
You can contact a professional to do this for you if you require an extra transponder key or if you've lost yours. It will cost more than a standard key but it's a safer and more reliable alternative to ensure that someone else cannot start your car.
Keyless Entry System
Car key fobs are now a standard feature in vehicles, as more and more people want convenience, safety, and security. These transmitters can open doors, trigger the panic alarm, open the trunk, or start the engine without having a physical key. They are easily tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. It's costly to replace them, and you might need to program your new key to pair it with your vehicle.
The cost of cutting a standard key fob at an hardware store is around 10 dollars. However, the newest smart keys can be costly when you need to purchase them and then program them. You should expect to pay between $200 and $500 for the replacement key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed for your vehicle.
There are other more advanced car keys systems that let you use your smartphone as an actual key. By using the app on your phone, you can remote lock or unlock your car and you can also turn your lights on and off, turn off your parking brake, and perform other things based on the proximity of your car. These are perfect for those who reside in urban areas, or have children and are worried about your children being in the car without supervision.
Some of these systems can be expensive however, they're more secure than a regular car key as they locate you and prevent you from accidentally locking your car or turning off the engine in case you're not close enough. They also can help you find your car in a parking garage, and some can warn you when the doors are shut or opened.
These types of systems can also be useful for businesses, such as property managers who manage vacation rentals or office spaces. These systems can allow them to monitor access rights for guests as well as cleaning staff and maintenance staff, as well as making sure that only those with the proper permissions can go in and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people believe they need to visit a dealer when keys are missing. They'll need to provide proof of ownership, and occasionally the key has to be purchased from the manufacturer, which can take a few days. However, a dealer can generally complete the task for you quicker than locksmiths, and they might have lower prices, too.
The key fob might require programming to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership, or by referring to your owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors and turning lights and other electronic components on and off. It may also require pressing a number of buttons which act as an electronic code. This is often handled by the driver, but it's always better to let a technician take care of it.
The year, make and model of the vehicle will affect the price as well. Modern cars feature advanced transponder chips that require pairing with the vehicle by a locksmith or dealer and the process could be more costly.
A dealer that sells a certain model will be more likely to know how to replace keys for that model. Some of the biggest manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan, have a large number of models, and are more familiar with the keys that are used for the models they sell.
Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the more established brands that have closed or are old enough that they no longer produce keys are listed. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. These keys are usually reprogrammed. replacement keys can be more expensive and time-consuming than replacing the key.
It is recommended to have your spare key cloned by a specialist rather than getting a new one from a dealer. So, you don't have to worry about paying the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. Then, if you do lose your keys, you can rest easy knowing that the cloned key will function.