Car Keys Replacement Cost
In the past, losing your keys to your car wasn't a big deal. You could take your spare to a key cutter and get a new one for just $10 or less.
Nowadays, however, the process is more complex and expensive. Learn about the various types and costs for car keys.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob is both an remote as well as a key in one. It's a small plastic device that houses one or more buttons that you push to unlock the doors and open the trunk or hatchback, lower the windows, and possibly start the car. The key fob is equipped with an electronic chip in it that communicates with the car's onboard systems to control functions like the starter.
A basic key fob is typically made of plastic and employs a lock-and key mechanism, such as the kind you might find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost between $50 to $100, however you'll pay more if you need to replace one that's lost or damaged.
If your car was manufactured in the past five years, chances are that you'll need to visit the dealer for a replacement fob as many newer cars require specialized equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or key shop is usually able to do this at a lower cost.
The cost of your fob could also be affected by the type you own. Older cars use mechanical keys, while the modern models have transponder 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 are updated regularly to prevent thieves from taking and stealing the data from your key fob.
Key fobs that are available online could be less expensive than the ones you can buy at the dealer, but they may not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips in their key fobs, which prevent them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealerships can program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in, but there's a good chance that it won't function.
You can get information on programming your key fob by looking up the manufacturer's site or your owner's guide. It's worth trying this yourself before heading to the dealership or paying a locksmith to do it. You can also check the warranty on your vehicle and the auto-insurance policy to determine if they cover the cost of a brand new key fob.
Transponder Key
The majority of newer cars have a type of key called transponder keys. They have an embedded chip in the head of the key that sends a signal to the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and starting the engine. This key is more secure than a traditional flat metal keys because the transponder chip prevents a car from starting without the correct signal. This technology was developed to prevent theft of cars because it is virtually impossible to duplicate these keys without the right equipment.
Many cars are also fitted with immobilizers which prevent them from being started 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's damaged or lost. They'll require the details of your particular vehicle, such as the VIN number along with the year, model and year. They'll either program your current key to the car's system or cut new keys. This is a more costly process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.
Some stores for automotive, such as AutoZone and Walmart, are also capable of cutting and copying the transponder keys, however they might not be able to reprogram the chip inside the key. If you want to ensure that a professional can handle the task, you should seek out a reputable and experienced locksmith service.
Before the advent of technology like this, it was relatively easy for someone to make duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a vehicle. This technique was used to steal cars and allowed criminals to drive away with stolen vehicles. The advent of the transponder key has greatly reduced the likelihood of this happening, but it is not completely eliminated.
If you need a new transponder key or you have lost yours, the best choice is to call a professional and have them do it for you. It's more expensive than a standard key, but it's a much safer and more reliable option to ensure that someone else is unable to start your car.
Keyless Entry System
As more and more people demand convenience, safety and security key fobs for cars have become a standard feature. These tiny transmitters can open doors, activate the alarm for panic, open the trunk, and even start your engine without having the physical key in your hands. They can be thrown around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. It's expensive to replace keys, and you might need to program your new fob to pair it with your vehicle.
A standard key fob can cost around ten dollars to get cut at a hardware store, but the latest smart keys can be expensive if you're looking to purchase the keys and have them programmed. You can expect to spend between $200 and $500 on a replacement key fob. This includes the cost to have it cut and programmed for your vehicle.
There are also more advanced car key systems that let you use your smartphone as a key. You can lock or unlock your car by using an app on your phone. You can also turn on and off your lights, activate your parking break, and do other things based on the proximity to the car. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas or if you have children and are worried about your children being in the car without supervision.
Some of these systems can be expensive, but they're also more secure than a standard car key because they can track your location and prevent you from locking the car or turning off the engine when you're far away. Certain systems can assist you in finding your car in a garage and others will notify you when you close or open the doors.
These systems can also be useful for businesses such as property managers who manage vacation rentals or offices. key car replacement can allow them to monitor the access rights for guests as well as cleaning staff and maintenance workers, while making sure that only those with the proper permissions can go in and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people may feel that they must visit a dealership if their keys disappear. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership, and could order the key from the manufacturer. This could take several days. A dealer can usually do the job faster than a locksmith and may even charge less.
It is likely that the key fob will need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by referring to the owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors, and turning off the lights and other electronic devices on and off. It may even require pressing a series of buttons which act as a code. It is usually done by the driver, but it is always better to have a technician perform it.
The cost is also affected by the year, make and type of vehicle. The cost of the service could also be affected by the year, make and model of the vehicle.
A dealer who sells a specific model will be more likely to have the knowledge to replace keys for that model. Some of the larger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a huge number of models, and are more acquainted with the keys for the models they sell.
Other brands are more difficult to work with. This includes some of the older companies that have shut down, or are old enough to have keys that are no longer being produced. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are some of the more established companies that no longer produce keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. The keys are typically reprogrammed. This can be more expensive and time-consuming than replacing the key.
If you have a spare key it is best to get it copied by an expert instead of obtaining an alternative from the dealer. That way you can avoid paying the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. If you lose your keys, you are assured that the duplicate will work.