Car Keys Replacement Cost
It wasn't long ago that misplacing keys to your car was not a big issue. You could bring 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 various types and costs of keys for cars.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob is both an remote as well as a key in one. It's a small, plastic device that contains a button or buttons that you press to unlock the doors, open the trunk or hatchback, roll down the windows and maybe even start the car. The key fob also comes with an embedded electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard system to manage functions such as the starter.
A basic key fob is generally made of plastic and uses a regular lock-and-key mechanism, such as the kind you might find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost between $50 and $100, but you'll pay more if need to replace one that's been damaged or lost.
If your car was manufactured in the past five years, chances that you'll have to visit the dealer for a replacement fob, as many newer cars require special equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith or a key shop will usually be capable of doing this for less.
The kind of fob you own will also affect the price. Older vehicles use mechanical key fobs, whereas modern models usually come with transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of key fobs can be equipped with a variety of features. They could include keyless entry, which locks and unlocks your car automatically, or rolling codes that are updated frequently to keep thieves from stealing the information on the key fob.
You may be able to buy an aftermarket key fob online for less than what you'd pay at the dealership however they might not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru, have security chips inside their key fobs, which prevent them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealers can program an aftermarket key fob if it's brought in, however it's highly unlikely that it will function.
You can find information about programming your key fob by searching the site of the manufacturer or in the owner's manual. It's worth trying to do this yourself prior to going to the dealership or paying an expert locksmith. You could also check the warranty of your vehicle, the roadside assistance and auto-insurance coverage to see if these will cover the cost of a replacement fob for your key.
Transponder Key
Most modern cars utilize a type of key called transponder keys. They have a chip embedded in the head of the key that sends a signal to the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and for starting the engine. This key is more secure than the traditional flat metal key because the transponder chip stops the car from starting without the correct signal. This technology was designed to reduce car theft because it is nearly impossible to duplicate these keys without the right equipment.
Additionally, many vehicles also have immobilizer systems that prevent them from starting if the key is not transponder-compatible. However, thieves have also developed ways to steal and break into cars that are equipped with transponder keys.
A locksmith can help repair your transponder key in the event that it is damaged or lost. They will need the information about your vehicle, such as the VIN number and model. They'll either program your current key to the car's computer system or cut an entirely new one. This process is a bit more expensive than simply having a car dealership cut and program a replacement key.
Some automotive stores, like AutoZone and Walmart are also able to cut and copy a transponder key, but they might not be capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. If you want to ensure that a professional will be able to handle the task, you should call a reputable and experienced locksmith business.
It was fairly easy to make a duplicate key for a car, and then wire a vehicle prior to the advent of this new technology. This method of stealing cars was very common and allowed criminals to get into and drive off with stolen vehicles. The advent of the transponder key has greatly reduced the likelihood of this happening but it's not completely eliminated.
If you require a new transponder keys or you've lost yours, the best solution is to contact a professional and have them do it for you. The cost will be more than a conventional key, however it's a safer and better way to ensure that your vehicle cannot be started by someone else.
Keyless Entry System
As more and more people demand convenience, safety and security keys for their cars are now a standard feature. These devices are able to open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, and even start the engine without an actual key. They are easily tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. It's costly to replace keys, and you might require programming your new key to pair it with your vehicle.
The cost of cutting a basic fob for a key at a hardware store is about ten dollars. However, the most recent smart keys can be costly if you have to buy them and then program them. You should expect to pay between $200 and $500 on an alternative key fob. This includes the cost to have it cut and programmed for your car.
There are also more advanced car key systems that allow you to make use of your smartphone as a key. You can lock or unlock your car remotely using the app on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, turn on your parking break, and do other tasks depending on how close you are to the vehicle. This is ideal for people who reside in urban areas, or if you have kids and are worried about children leaving the car unattended.
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 accidentally locking your car or turning off the engine if you're too far away. They can also help you locate your car in garages that have parking spaces and even alert you if the doors are open or closed.
These systems are also beneficial for companies such as property managers who manage office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems permit them to monitor access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also make sure that only those who have permissions are allowed in and out.
Dealership
Some people believe they need to visit a dealer when keys are missing. The dealer will ask for proof of ownership and may purchase keys from the manufacturer. This can take several days. However, a dealer can typically complete the task for you faster than locksmiths, and they might have lower prices, too.
It is likely that the key fob will still require programming to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealer or by consulting your owner's guide. It involves opening and closing doors and turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off. It may also require pressing a set of buttons that act as an electronic code. It is usually performed by the driver, but it is better to have a technician handle it.
The year the car was manufactured, its model and make of the vehicle will affect the cost as well. The cost of the service could be affected by the year, model and model of the vehicle.
A dealer that sells a certain brand of car will be more likely to be able to change keys for that model. Some of the larger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a huge variety of models and are more familiar with the keys that are used for those models.
Certain brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have been shut down or that are old enough that they no longer produce keys are listed. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are a few of the older companies that no longer produce keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these kinds of keys have to be reprogrammed which is more difficult and expensive than replacing the key itself.
It is recommended that you have your spare key cloned by a professional instead of purchasing an entirely new one from a dealer. automotive key replacement will avoid paying higher rates for after-hours and weekend services. If you do lose your keys, you can rest easy knowing that the cloned key will work.