Car Keys Replacement Cost
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing car keys was not a big issue. You could take your spare key to a key cutting shop for the replacement key for less than $10.
Nevertheless, the process has become more complex and expensive. Learn about the different types and costs for keys for cars.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob can be described as a remote control and a key in one. It's a small plastic device that contains one or more buttons that you press to unlock the doors, open the trunk or hatchback, roll down the windows, and perhaps start the car. The key fob also has a built-in electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard system to control functions such as the starter.
Key fobs for basic use are typically made from standard plastic, and utilize a standard lock and key mechanism. They're similar to the ones that were used on the old Pontiacs and Saturns. A basic key fob may cost between $50 and $100, but the true price is when you need to replace a lost or damaged one.
You'll likely have to visit a dealer if your vehicle is more than five years old. Most newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or a key shop is usually able to do this at a lower cost.
The cost of your fob can be affected by the type you own. Older vehicles use mechanical keys, whereas the most recent models typically have transponder keys or smart keys. Both come with a variety of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the car in a controlled manner to changing codes on a regular basis to deter thieves from intercepting and stealing the data from your key fob.
Online key fobs may be cheaper than those you can buy at the dealer, but they might not be compatible with your car. Some manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips that prevent their key fobs from interfacing with third party devices. Some dealerships can program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in, but there's a good chance it won't continue to function.
You can find out more about programming your key fob by visiting the site of the manufacturer or in the owner's guide. Try to do this yourself first before paying for a locksmith or going to the dealer. You may also want to check your car's warranty and auto insurance policy to see whether they cover the cost of a new key fob.
Transponder Key
Most newer cars use keys that are known as a transponder key. The keys have an embedded chip in the key's head that sends a signal to the vehicle when it is inserted into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and starting the engine. This key type is more secure than conventional flat metal keys due to transponder chips prevent the car from starting if it fails to receive an appropriate signal from the key. This technology was created to prevent theft of cars since it is nearly impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the proper equipment.
Many cars are also equipped with immobilizers which prevent the vehicle from starting when they are operated by a key that is not transponder. However, car criminals have also come up with methods to gain access and steal vehicles that have transponder keys.
A locksmith can help repair your transponder key in the event that it's damaged or stolen. They'll need details of your vehicle including the VIN number and model. They'll either program your existing key to the car's computer system or cut a new one. This is a little more expensive than cutting a key from a dealership and program a replacement key.
Some stores for automotive, such as AutoZone and Walmart can also be able to cut and copy the transponder keys, however they might not be in a position to reprogram the chip in the key. automotive car key replacement should contact an experienced and reliable locksmith service to be sure that a professional is able to handle the task.
Before the invention of technology like this it was quite easy for someone to make a duplicate car key and then hot wire a vehicle. This was a method used to steal cars, and it allowed criminals to drive away with stolen vehicles. The introduction of transponder keys has drastically reduced this crime however, it's not completely eliminated.
If you need a replacement transponder keys or you've lost yours, the best option is to call an expert and have them create it for you. It's more expensive than a standard one, but it's a safer and more reliable option to ensure that someone else cannot start your car.
Keyless Entry System
As more and more people demand security, convenience, and safety key fobs for cars have become a standard feature. These transmitters can open doors, trigger the panic alarm, open the trunk, or start the engine without having a physical key. They can also take some abuse from being tossed around and they're more likely to be lost or stolen than the metal keys. They're also expensive to replace, and you could need fob programming to pair the new key with your vehicle.
The cost of cutting a standard key fob at a hardware store is about 10 dollars. However, the latest smart keys can be costly if you have to buy them as well as programme them. Depending on your vehicle model and make you could expect to pay between $200 to $500 for a replacement fob and the cost of having it cut and programmed to your car.
Some sophisticated car key systems allow you to use your smartphone as a key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle remotely using the app on your smartphone. You can also turn on and off your lights, activate your parking break, as well as perform other tasks depending on how close you are to the car. These are great for people who reside in urban areas or even if you're a parent that's worried about your children leaving the car unsupervised.
Some of these systems are costly however, they're more secure than a regular car key since they track your location and prevent you from locking the car or turning the engine on when you're far away. Some of these systems can assist you in finding your car in a garage, and others can notify you when you open or close the doors.
These systems are also beneficial for companies such as property managers who manage vacation rentals or offices. These systems allow them to monitor the access rights of guests as well as cleaning staff and maintenance workers, while ensuring that only those with the appropriate permissions are allowed to get in and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people believe that they should go to the dealer if keys are missing. The dealer will request proof of ownership and request the key from the manufacturer. This could take a few days. But a dealer can also generally complete the task for you much faster than locksmiths, and they may offer lower prices too.
The key fob may still need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by referring to your owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors, as well as turning lights and other electronics on and off. It could even involve pressing a series of buttons that acts like a code. It is usually performed by the driver, but it is better to have a technician do it.
The cost can also be affected by the year, model and year of vehicle. Modern cars feature high-tech transponder chips that will require pairing with the vehicle by a locksmith or dealer and the process may be more expensive.
A dealer that sells a particular brand of car is more likely be able to replace the keys for that particular vehicle. Some of the bigger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler, have many models and are well-versed in keys.
Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have shut down or that are old enough that they no longer manufacture keys are listed. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are some of the more established companies that do not produce keys anymore. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these types of keys have to be reprogrammed which is more complicated and costly than replacing the key itself.
In general, if you have a spare key it is usually best to get it copied by an expert instead of obtaining an alternative from the dealer. You can avoid paying the higher prices for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys you are assured that the duplicate will work.