Car Keys Replacement Cost
In the past, losing your car keys was not an issue. You could bring your spare key to a key cutter for an alternative that cost less than $10.
However, auto key replacement has become more complicated and costly. Find out about the various kinds 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 has buttons or buttons that you push to unlock the doors and open the trunk or hatchback, open the windows, and possibly start the car. The key fob comes with an electronic chip built in that communicates with the car's onboard systems for controlling functions like the starter.
Basic key fobs are made from standard plastic, and are fitted with a standard lock and key mechanism. They are identical to those found on old Pontiacs or Saturns. A basic key fob may cost anything from $50 to $100, but the real cost comes when you have to replace a lost or damaged one.
If your car was built within the last five years, chances that you'll have to go to the dealership for a replacement fob, since many modern cars require specialized equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or key shop will typically be in a position to provide this service at a lower cost.
The cost of the fob you purchase can be affected by the type you own. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, while modern models have transponder keys. Both of these types can have a wide range of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically to changing codes on a regular basis to prevent thieves from taking and using the key fob information of your car.
Online key fobs may be less expensive than ones you can buy at the dealer, but they may not work on your car. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips inside their key fobs that prevent them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealerships will program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in but there's a good possibility that it won't function.
Go through your owner's manual or search the manufacturer's website for more information about programming your particular model's key fob. It is recommended to try this yourself first before paying a locksmith or going to the dealer. You can also look at your vehicle's warranty, auto-insurance policy and roadside assistance coverage to determine if they cover the costs of a replacement fob for your key.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are found in most newer cars. They have embedded chips in the head that transmits an electronic message to the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and begin the engine. This key is more secure than the conventional flat metal key due to the transponder chip stops a car from starting without the correct signal. This technology was created to prevent theft of cars since it is almost impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the appropriate equipment.
In addition, many cars also have immobilizer systems that prevent them from starting if a non-transponder key is used. Car thieves have devised ways to steal cars equipped with transponder key systems.
A locksmith can help you repair your transponder key in the event that it is damaged or lost. They'll require the details of your particular vehicle, including the VIN number, model and year. They will then 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 having a car dealership cut and program a new key.
Some automotive stores, like AutoZone and Walmart, are also able to cut and copy the transponder key, however they might not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. You should contact an experienced and reliable locksmith company if you want to be sure that a professional will be capable of handling the job.
Before the invention of this technology it was quite simple to create a duplicate car key and then hot wire a car. This was a method used to steal cars, and it allowed criminals to drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have drastically reduced the risk of this crime, but it isn't entirely eliminated it.
If you need a replacement transponder key or you have lost yours, the best choice is to call a professional and have them make it for you. It will cost more than a standard key but it's a much safer and better alternative to ensure that someone else will not be able to start your car.
Keyless Entry System
As more and more people demand convenience, safety and security, car key fobs have become a common feature. They can open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, and even start the engine without a physical key. But they can also be subject to quite a beating from being tossed around and they're more likely to get lost or stolen than the metal keys. It's expensive to replace them, and you might need to program your new fob to pair it with your vehicle.
The cost of cutting a basic fob for a key at an hardware store is around ten dollars. However, the newest smart keys can be costly if you must purchase them and then program them. It is possible to spend between $200 and $500 on the replacement key fob. This includes the cost to have it cut and programmed for your car.
There are additionally more advanced car key systems that let you use 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, turn on your parking break, and do other tasks depending on the proximity to the vehicle. This is ideal for people who reside in urban areas or if you have children and worry about them leaving the car unattended.
Some of these systems can be expensive, but they are more secure than the standard car key. They monitor your location to stop you from locking or opening the car if you are far from. Certain of these systems will help you locate your car in a garage, and others will notify you when you close or open the doors.
These systems are also beneficial for businesses such as property managers who manage office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those with permissions are permitted to enter and exit.
Dealership
Some people feel they must go to the dealer when keys are missing. They'll have to show proof of ownership, and sometimes the key has to be ordered from the manufacturer, which could take a few days. But a dealer will typically 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 for your car. This can be done at the dealership, or by consulting your owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, and turning on and off lights and other electronic devices. It may also require pressing a set of buttons that act as a code. This is usually handled by the drivers, however it's best to let a technician take care of it.
The cost can also be dependent on the year, make and model of vehicle. The cost of the service may also be affected by the year, make and model of the vehicle.
A dealer who sells specific brand of vehicle is more likely to know how to replace keys for that particular vehicle. Some of the larger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a huge number 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 more established brands that have closed or are so old that they no longer produce keys are included. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are a few of the companies that are older and do not produce keys anymore. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these keys have to be reprogrammed and can be more difficult and more expensive than replacing the key itself.
It is best to get your spare key copied by a professional instead of getting another one from a dealer. You can avoid paying the higher rates for after-hours and weekend services. If you do lose your keys, you can rest easy knowing that the copied key will function.