Car Keys Replacement Cost
A few years ago, losing your car keys was not a big deal. You could bring your spare key to a key cutting shop for a new one that cost less than $10.
However the process has become more complex and expensive. Learn about the various types and costs of keys for cars.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob is both a remote and key in one. It's a small, plastic device with a button that you can push to unlock doors or hatchbacks, open the trunk, lower windows and maybe even start the car. The key fob also comes with a built-in electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard computer system to control functions like the starter.
Key fobs for basic use are typically made from standard plastic, and utilize a standard lock and key mechanism. These are identical to those that were used on the old Pontiacs and Saturns. A basic key fob could cost anything from $50 to $100, but the true price is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one.
If your car was built in the last five years, chances that you'll have to visit the dealership to get a replacement fob as many newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or key shop typically can do this for less, though.
The type of fob you're using can affect the price. Older cars use mechanical keys, whereas the latest models usually have transponder keys or smart keys. automotive car key replacement of keys are able to have a range of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the vehicle instantly to rolling codes that are updated regularly to deter thieves from intercepting and stealing your car's key fob data.
Key fobs purchased online may be less expensive than the ones you can buy at the dealer, but they might not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that block their key fobs from interfacing with third-party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket key fob, if it's purchased, but it's very likely that it won't function.
Go through your owner's manual or go to the manufacturer's site for more information on programming your specific model's key fob. Try to do this yourself prior to paying a locksmith or going to the dealer. You can also look into the warranty on your vehicle and the auto-insurance policy to determine whether they will cover the cost of a brand new key fob.
Transponder Key
Most newer cars use a type of key called a transponder key. These keys contain an embedded chip in the key's head which transmits a signal the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and for starting the engine. This key is more secure than the conventional flat metal key due to the transponder chip prevents a car from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was created to stop car theft since it is virtually impossible to duplicate keys without the appropriate equipment.
Many cars are also fitted with immobilizers that stop the vehicle from starting when they are operated by keys that are not transponder. However, criminals have also come up with ways to break into and steal cars that are equipped with transponder keys.
A locksmith can assist you to replace your transponder keys if it is damaged or lost. They'll need the information about your specific vehicle, including the VIN number along with the year, model and year. Then, they'll cut a new key or program the existing one to your car's system. This is a more expensive procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys.
Some stores for automotive like AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and copy transponder keys, but they aren't capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. If you want to be sure that a professional can handle the task, you should call a reputable and experienced locksmith company.
It was fairly easy to make duplicate keys for a car, and then hot-wire a vehicle before the advent of this new technology. This method of stealing cars was frequent and allowed criminals to gain entry and drive off with stolen vehicles. The advent of the transponder key has greatly reduced this activity, but it is not completely eliminated.
You can contact an expert to handle this for you in the event that you require a replacement transponder key, or if you've lost yours. The cost will be more than a conventional key, but it is a much safer and better method to ensure that your vehicle is not able to be started by anyone else.
Keyless Entry System
As increasing numbers of people want security, convenience, and safety, car key fobs have become a standard feature. These little transmitters can unlock doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, and even start your engine without needing the physical key in your hands. But they can also take quite a beating from being tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen than the metal keys. It's costly to replace them, and you may have to program your new fob to connect it with your vehicle.
A basic key fob will cost about ten dollars to cut at a hardware store, but the most recent smart keys aren't cheap if you're looking to purchase them and have them programmed. Based on the make and model you could expect to shell out between $200 to $500 to replace a fob and the cost of cutting it and programming it to your car.
Some sophisticated car key systems let you use your phone as keys. You can lock or unlock your vehicle by using an app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, turn on your parking break, and perform other things based on how close you are to your car. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas or even if you're a parent that's worried about your children leaving the car without supervision.
Certain of these systems are expensive however they're also more secure than a standard car key because they can track your location and prevent you from accidentally locking the car or turning the engine on in case you're not close enough. Some of these systems can help you locate your car in a garage and others can notify you when you shut or open the doors.
These systems are also beneficial for businesses such as property managers who oversee vacation rentals or offices. These systems permit them to control access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also make sure that only those who have permissions are allowed to enter and exit the premises.
Dealership
Some people may feel that they need to go to the dealership when their keys are lost. They will need to show proof of ownership, and occasionally keys must be ordered from the manufacturer, which could take a few days. A dealer is usually able to complete the job faster than a locksmith and could even charge less.
The key fob could require programming to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by reading the owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors, as well as turning lights and other electronic components on and off. It can even involve pressing a combination of buttons that acts like a code. This is often handled by the drivers, but it's always better to let an expert take care of it.
The cost will also be affected by the year, model and year of vehicle. Newer cars have high-tech transponder chips that will require pairing with the car by a locksmith or dealer, and the process can be more expensive.
A dealer who sells a specific brand of car will be more likely to have the knowledge to replace keys for that model. Some of the bigger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan, have a large variety 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. This includes a few of the older firms that have been shut down or are old enough to have keys that are no longer in production. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are a few of the companies that are older and no longer produce keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these keys need to be reprogrammed, which can be more difficult and more expensive than replacing the key itself.
It is recommended to get your spare key copied by a specialist rather than buying an entirely new one from the dealer. So, you don't have to worry about having to pay for the higher after-hours or weekend rates. If you do lose your keys, you can rest assured that the key cloned will function.