Car Keys Replacement Cost
Not long ago, misplacing your car keys was not an issue. You could bring your spare to a key cutter and get an additional one for $10 or less.
Nevertheless the process has become more complicated and costly. Find out more about the different types of keys for cars and how they'll cost you to replace them.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob can be described as an remote as well as a key in one. It's a small, plastic piece with a button you can push to unlock doors or hatchbacks, open the trunk, roll down windows and maybe even start the car. The key fob has an electronic chip built in that communicates with the car's onboard systems for controlling functions like the starter.
Basic key fobs are made of standard plastic and utilize a standard lock and key mechanism. These are identical to those found on old Pontiacs or Saturns. A basic key fob will cost anywhere between $50-$100, but you'll be charged more if you require a replacement for one that's been damaged or lost.
If your car was built in the past five years, chances are that you'll need to visit the dealership for a replacement fob as many newer cars require special equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith or key shop will usually be able to do this for less.
The type of fob you have will also affect the price. Older cars have mechanical key fobs, while the most recent models typically have transponder keys or smart keys. Key fobs of both kinds can come with a variety of features. They may include keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically or rolling codes that are updated frequently to keep thieves from intercepting the data on the key fob.
Key fobs that are available online could be less expensive than ones you can buy at the dealer, but they might not work on your car. Certain manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru, include security chips in their key fobs that prevent them from working with third-party devices. Some dealerships will program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in however there's a high possibility that it won't function.
Read the owner's manual for your model or search the manufacturer's website for information on programming your specific model's key fob. It's worth trying to do this yourself before heading to the dealership or hiring an expert locksmith. You can also check your car's warranty, roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance coverage to see if these will cover the cost of a replacement fob for your key.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are used in most newer cars. They have a chip embedded in the key's head which transmits a signal the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and for starting the engine. This type of key is more secure than conventional 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 prevent theft of cars because it is almost impossible to duplicate keys without the appropriate equipment.
Many cars are also fitted with immobilizers that prevent them from being started when they are operated by keys that do not have a transponder. Car thieves have developed methods to steal vehicles with transponder key systems.
A locksmith will usually be able to assist you in replacing a lost or damaged transponder key. They'll need details of your vehicle, such as the VIN number and model. They can then either program your existing key to the car's computer system or cut new keys. This is a little more expensive than cutting a key from a dealership and program a replacement key.
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 is able to complete the task, you should seek out a reputable and experienced locksmith service.
It was fairly easy to create a duplicate key for a car and hot-wire a car prior to the advent of this latest technology. This method of stealing cars was very widespread and allowed criminals to enter and drive away with stolen vehicles. The advent of transponder keys has greatly reduced the likelihood of this happening, but it is not completely eliminated.
If you need a replacement transponder keys or you've lost yours, the best choice is to contact an expert and let them do it for you. The cost will be more 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
As increasing numbers of people want convenience, security and safety key fobs for cars have become a common feature. These transmitters can open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, or start the engine without having the physical key. They can be tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. It's costly to replace them, and you may need to program your new fob to connect it with your vehicle.
A standard key fob can cost ten or so dollars to get cut at an hardware store, but the latest smart keys can be expensive if you're looking to purchase them and have them programmed. Based on your car's model and make you can expect to shell out between $200-$500 to replace a fob and the cost of having it cut and programmed to your vehicle.
There are other more advanced car keys systems that allow you to make use of your smartphone as a key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle via the app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, activate your parking break, as well as perform other things based on the proximity to the car. This is ideal for people who reside in urban areas or if you have children and worry about children leaving the car unattended.
Certain of these systems can be expensive however, they're more secure than a regular car key as they track your location and prevent you from locking the car or turning on the engine when you're far away. Certain systems can help you locate your car in a garage, and others can notify you when you close or open the doors.
These systems are also useful for businesses like property managers who oversee vacation rentals or offices. These systems can allow them to monitor the access rights of guests, cleaning staff, and maintenance workers, while ensuring that only those who have the proper permissions can go in and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people may think that they need to go to the dealership when keys go missing. They will need to show proof of ownership, and occasionally keys must be ordered from the manufacturer, which could take a few days. But auto key replacement will usually get the job done for you quicker than locksmiths, and may offer lower prices as well.
The key fob could require programming to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealer or by consulting your owner's guide. It involves opening and shutting doors, and switching off or on lights and other electronic devices. It could even involve pressing a series of buttons that functions as an electronic code. This is usually handled by the drivers, however it's always better to let an expert handle it.
The year, make and model of the vehicle will impact the price as well. The cost of the service can also be affected by the year, model and model of the vehicle.
A dealer who sells particular brand of car is more likely be able to replace the keys for that vehicle. Some of the biggest manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan, have a large number of models, and are more acquainted with the keys that are used for the specific models.
Some brands are harder 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 in production. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn, and Eagle. Typically, these kinds of keys have to be reprogrammed which is more complicated and costly than replacing the key itself.
It is recommended to have your spare key cloned by a specialist rather than buying a new one from the dealer. This way, you avoid paying the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. If you lose your keys you can be assured that the duplicate will function.