Car Keys Replacement Cost
Not long ago, misplacing your car keys was not a big deal. You could take your spare to an a key cutter and buy an additional one for $10 or less.
Today, however the process is more complex and expensive. Learn about the different types and costs of keys for cars.
Basic Key Fob
Key fobs are an remote control as well as an actual key in one. It's a small, plastic device that has a button or buttons that you can push to unlock the doors, open the trunk or hatchback, roll down the windows, and possibly start the car. The key fob has an embedded electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard computer system to control functions like the starter.
Basic key fobs are made from standard plastic, and are fitted with a standard lock and key mechanism. These are similar to the ones found on old Pontiacs or Saturns. A basic key fob will cost anywhere between $50-$100, but you'll pay more if you need to replace one that's damaged or lost.
You'll likely have to visit the dealer if your car is older than five years old. A lot of newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or key shop can usually perform this task for less, though.
The kind of fob you own will also affect the price. Older vehicles have mechanical key fobs, while most recent models utilize transponder keys. Key fobs of both types can come with a range of features. They can include keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically or rolling codes that change frequently to stop thieves from stealing the data on the key fob.
Key fobs purchased online may be cheaper than those you can purchase from a dealer, but they might not work on your car. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru, include security chips in their key fobs that block them from working with third-party devices. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob if it's brought in, however it's very likely that it won't work.
Go through your owner's manual or go to the manufacturer's site for information on programming your specific model's key fob. It's a good idea to try this yourself before heading to the dealership or paying a locksmith to do it. You can also look at your vehicle's warranty, roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance policy to see if they will cover the cost of a replacement key fob.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are used in the majority of newer automobiles. They have an embedded chip in the key's head that sends a signal to the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and for starting the engine. This key type is more secure than conventional flat metal keys since transponder chips stop the car from starting if it fails to receive a signal from the correct key. This technology was designed to prevent theft of cars since it is almost impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the proper equipment.
In addition, many cars also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting if a non-transponder key is used. Car thieves have developed ways to steal cars equipped with transponder key systems.
A locksmith can help you replace your transponder key if it's damaged or lost. They'll need the details of your particular vehicle, such as the VIN number along with the year, model and year. They can then either program your current key to the car's computer system or cut an entirely new one. This is a more costly procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys.
Some automotive stores, like AutoZone and Walmart can also be capable of cutting and re-copying the transponder keys, however they might not be able to reprogram the chip inside the key. It is best to call a reputable and experienced locksmith company if you want to be sure that a professional is able to handle the task.
Before the advent of this technology, it was relatively easy to make duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a vehicle. This method of stealing cars was common and allowed criminals to enter and drive off with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced the risk of this crime, but it isn't entirely eliminated it.
You can call an expert to handle this for you if you require an extra transponder key or if you've lost one. It's more expensive than a standard key, but it's a safer and more reliable alternative to ensure that someone else will not be able to start your car.
Keyless Entry System
Car key fobs are becoming a standard feature of vehicles, as more and more people want convenience, safety, and security. These transmitters can open doors, trigger the panic alarm, open the trunk, and even start the engine without a physical key. They are easily tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. It's costly to replace keys, and you might have to program your new key to pair it with your vehicle.
The cost of cutting a standard key fob in a hardware store is about 10 dollars. However, the most recent smart keys can be expensive if you must purchase them, as well as program them. Based on the model and make, you can expect to shell out between $200-$500 to replace a fob and the cost of cutting it and programming it to your car.
Certain advanced car key systems allow you to make use of your smartphone as an actual key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle via the app on your phone. You can also turn on and off your lights, activate your parking break, and perform other things based on the distance you're to your vehicle. These apps are ideal for those who live in urban areas, or even parents who are concerned about your children leaving the car without supervision.
Some of these systems can be expensive, but are more secure than a standard car key. They monitor your location to stop you from locking or opening the car if you are far from. auto key replacement of these systems can assist you in finding your car in a garage and others will notify you when you open or close the doors.
These systems are also beneficial for businesses like property managers who oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems let them check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those who have permissions are allowed to enter and exit the premises.
Dealership
Some people may think that they need to go to the dealer if their keys are lost. They'll need to provide proof of ownership, and sometimes the key must be purchased from the manufacturer, which could take several days. But a dealer can also usually get the job done for you much faster than a locksmith, and they may offer lower prices too.
It is likely that the key fob will need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by looking up the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, and switching off or on lights and other electronic devices. It could even require pressing a set of buttons which acts as a code. This is often handled by the drivers, however it's best to let an expert handle it.
The cost can also be dependent on the year, make and model of vehicle. The cost of the service may be affected by the year, model and model of the vehicle.
A dealer who sells a particular brand of car will be more likely to know how to replace keys for that model. Some of the larger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have a variety of models and are well-versed in keys.
Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the more established brands that have closed or that are old enough that they no longer make keys are included. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are a few of the older companies that have stopped producing keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these keys need to be reprogrammed which is more difficult and more expensive than replacing the key itself.
It is recommended to get your spare key copied by a specialist rather than purchasing an entirely new one from the dealer. You will not have to pay the higher rates for after-hours and weekend services. Then, if you do lose your keys, you can rest easy knowing that the cloned key will function.