Car Keys Replacement Cost
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing keys to cars was not a big issue. You could take your spare to a key cutter and get a new one for $10 or less.
Nevertheless the process has become more complicated and costly. Learn more about the various kinds of car keys and how they'll cost you to replace.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob is both an electronic remote and a key in one. It's tiny, plastic device with a button that you can push to unlock doors, open the hatchback or trunk, lower windows, and possibly even start the car. The key fob comes with an electronic chip in it that communicates with your car's onboard systems to regulate functions such as the starter.
Key fobs for basic use are typically constructed from plastic that is standard, and are fitted with a standard lock and key mechanism. They're similar to the ones found on old Pontiacs as well as Saturns. A basic key fob costs between $50 to $100, however you'll pay more if you need to replace one that has been damaged or lost.
You'll likely have to visit the dealer if your car is more than five years old. Most newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or a key shop will typically be in a position to provide this service for less.
The kind of fob you own can also impact the cost. Older cars have mechanical key fobs while the modern models have transponder keys. Both come with a variety of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the vehicle in a controlled manner to rolling codes that are updated regularly to prevent thieves from taking and stealing the key fob information of your car.
You may be able to purchase an aftermarket key fob online for less than what you'd pay at a dealership however, they may not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from interfacing with third party devices. Some dealerships will program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in, but there's a good possibility that it won't work.
You can find out more about programming your key fob by looking up the site of the manufacturer or in your owner's guide. It's a good idea to try this yourself before going to the dealer or hiring an expert locksmith to do it. You can also check your vehicle's warranty, roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance coverage to see if these will cover the cost of a replacement key fob.
Transponder Key
The majority of newer cars have keys of a different type, known as a transponder key. They have a chip embedded in the head of the key that transmits a signal to the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. The signal is used to unlock the car and start the engine. This key type is more secure than traditional flat metal keys because transponder chips stop the car from starting if it does not receive the right signal from the key. This technology was designed to reduce car theft because it is almost impossible to duplicate these keys without the proper equipment.
Many cars are also fitted with immobilizers which prevent them from starting when they are operated with keys that are not transponder. Car thieves have come up with methods of stealing cars with transponder key systems.
A locksmith can help replace your transponder key if it is damaged or lost. They will need the details of your vehicle like the VIN number and model. Then they will cut a new one or program the one they have to your car's system. This process is a bit more expensive than having a car dealership cut and program a replacement key.
Some automotive stores, like AutoZone and Walmart, are also capable of cutting and copying the transponder key, however they might not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. It is best to call an experienced and reliable locksmith service to ensure that a professional is able to handle the task.
It was quite simple to create duplicate keys for a car, and then hot-wire a vehicle before the advent of this modern technology. This was a method used to steal cars and allowed criminals drive away with stolen vehicles. The advent of the transponder key has greatly reduced this activity however, it's not completely eliminated.
You can get an expert to handle this for you if you require a replacement transponder key, or if you lost yours. The cost will be higher than a conventional key, but it's a safer and more secure method to ensure that your car is not able to be started by anyone else.
Keyless Entry System
Car key fobs are now a standard feature of vehicles as people are seeking convenience, safety and security. These tiny devices can unlock doors, set off the alarm that sounds a panic or open the trunk and even start your car without having the physical key in your hands. They are easily tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. This means they're costly to replace, and you could need fob programming to pair your new key with your vehicle.
The cost of cutting a standard key fob in a hardware shop is around 10 dollars. However, the latest smart keys can be expensive when you need to purchase them as well as programme them. You should expect to pay between $200 and $500 on the replacement key fob. key replacement for car includes the cost of having it cut and programmed for your vehicle.
Some advanced car key systems let you make use of your smartphone as keys. By using the app on your smartphone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car, and you can also switch your lights on and off, turn off your parking brake, and perform other things based on the proximity of your car. These are great for people who live in urban areas, or even if you're a parent that's worried about your kids leaving the car unsupervised.
Some of these systems can be expensive, but they are more secure than a standard car key. They monitor your location to stop you from locking or starting the car when you are far from. They can also assist you to find your car in a parking garage and even alert you if the doors have been shut or opened.
These systems are also useful for businesses like property managers who manage office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems let them check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those with permissions are allowed to enter and exit the premises.
Dealership
Some people believe they need to go to the dealer when keys are missing. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership, and could request the key from the manufacturer. This could take a few days. However, a dealer can typically complete the task for you much faster than locksmiths, and they might have lower prices, too.
The key fob might require to be programmed for your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by reading your owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, as well as turning lights and other electronics on and off. It could even require pressing a series of buttons that act as codes. Often, this can be done by the driver, but it is better to have a technician perform it.
The cost can also be dependent on the year, model and year of vehicle. Modern cars feature sophisticated transponder chips which will require pairing with the car by a locksmith or a dealer, and the process can be more expensive.
A dealer who sells a particular brand of vehicle is more likely to be able to replace the keys for the vehicle. Some of the biggest manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan, have a large variety of models and are more familiar with the keys for the models they sell.
Other brands are more difficult to work with. This includes some of the more established companies that have closed, or are old enough to have keys that are no longer being produced. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are a few of the companies that are older and have stopped producing keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these types of keys need to be reprogrammed, which can be more difficult and expensive than replacing the key itself.
It is best to get your spare key copied by a professional instead of purchasing another one from a dealer. You can avoid paying the more expensive rates for after-hours or weekend services. If you lose your keys, you can be assured that the cloned one will work.