Car Keys Replacement Cost
A few years ago, losing your keys to your car wasn't an issue. You could bring your spare key to a key cutter for a new one that cost $10 or less.
Nevertheless the process has gotten more complex and expensive. Learn more about the various types of keys for cars and how they'll cost you to replace.
Basic Key Fob
Key fobs are an electronic remote and a key in one. It's a small, plastic piece with a button that can be pushed to open doors and hatchbacks, open the trunk, roll down windows and maybe even start the vehicle. The key fob has an electronic chip inside that communicates with the car's onboard computer system to control functions like the starter.
A basic key fob is usually constructed of plastic that utilizes a standard lock-and-key mechanism, such as the type you'd find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob may cost between $50 and $100, but the actual cost is when you need to replace a lost or damaged one.
You'll likely have to visit the dealer if your car is older than five years old. Most newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or a key shop typically can perform this task for less, though.
The kind of fob you own will also affect the price. Older cars have mechanical key fobs, while the most recent models typically have transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of keys can have a wide range of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle instantly to changing codes on a regular basis to prevent thieves from taking and stealing the key fob information of your car.
You might be able to purchase an aftermarket key fob for less than what you'd pay at the dealer, but these may not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips that block their key fobs from interfacing with third party devices. Some dealerships will program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in but there's a good chance that it won't work.
Go through your owner's manual or visit the manufacturer's website for information about programming your particular model's key fob. It is recommended to try this yourself before hiring a locksmith or going to the dealer. You may also want to check your car's warranty and auto insurance policy to determine whether they will cover the cost of replacing a key fob.
Transponder Key
The majority of newer cars have keys that are known as transponder keys. They have a chip embedded in the key's head that sends a signal to the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. The signal is used to unlock the car and begin the engine. This key type is more secure than standard flat metal keys since transponder chips stop the car from starting if it fails to receive a signal from the correct key. This technology was created to stop car theft since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the right equipment.
Many cars are also fitted with immobilizers that prevent them from being started if they are used with keys that are not transponder. Car thieves have come up with ways to steal cars equipped with transponder key systems.
A locksmith can help repair your transponder key in the event that it's damaged or lost. They'll need the details about your specific vehicle, such as the VIN number, model and year. They will then cut a new key or program the existing one to the car's system. This procedure is more expensive than simply cutting a key from a dealership and program a new key.
Some stores for automotive like AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and duplicate transponder keys but may not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. You should contact a reputable and experienced locksmith company if you want to be sure that a professional is able to handle the task.
Before the invention of this technology it was fairly easy for someone to make duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a car. This method of stealing cars was frequent and allowed criminals to get into and drive away with stolen vehicles. The introduction of transponder keys has greatly reduced the likelihood of this happening but it's not completely eliminated.
If you need a new transponder key, or have lost yours, the best choice is to call an expert and let them do it for you. The cost will be more than a conventional key, but it is a much safer and better way to ensure that your vehicle is not able to be started by anyone else.
Keyless Entry System
Car key fobs are becoming a standard feature of vehicles, as more and more people want convenience, security, and security. These devices can open doors, trigger the panic alarm, open the trunk, or even start the engine without the physical key. They can also take quite a beating from being tossed around, and they are more likely to get lost or stolen than the metal keys. It's expensive to replace them, and you may have to program your new fob to pair it with your vehicle.
A basic key fob will cost ten or so dollars to cut at a hardware store, but the latest smart keys aren't cheap if you need to buy them and then have them programmed. Based on your car's model and make you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 and $500 to replace a fob and the cost of having it cut and programmed to your vehicle.
There are also more advanced car key systems that let you use your smartphone as an actual key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle remotely using the app on your smartphone. You can also turn on and off your lights, turn on your parking break, and perform other tasks based on how close you are to your car. These are perfect for those who live in urban areas or if you have kids and worry about them leaving the car unattended.
Certain of these systems can be expensive however, they're more secure than a standard car key because they can track your location and prevent you from locking the car or turning the engine on if you're too far away. Certain of these systems can assist you in finding your car in a garage, and others can notify you when you close or open the doors.
These systems are also useful for businesses such as property managers who manage offices or vacation rentals. These systems let them 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 go to the dealer if their keys are missing. They will need to show proof of ownership, and sometimes keys must be ordered from the manufacturer, which can take a few days. A dealer will usually complete the job more quickly than a locksmith, and might even charge less.
The key fob might need to be programmed for your car. This can be done at the dealer or by reading the owner's manual. click here! involves opening and closing doors, and turning off lights and other electronics on and off. It could even involve pressing a series of buttons that functions as an electronic code. Most of the time, this is performed by the driver but it is better to have a technician do it.
The cost will also be dependent on the year, model and year of vehicle. The cost of the service can also be affected by the year, model and model of the vehicle.
A dealer that sells a specific model of car is more likely to be able to replace the keys for the vehicle. Some of the bigger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler, have many models and are well-versed in the keys.
Certain brands are 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 in production. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are among the more established companies that do not produce keys anymore. 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.
It is best to have your spare key cloned by a specialist rather than getting another one from a dealer. You can avoid paying the more expensive rates for after-hours or weekend services. If you lose your keys, you are assured that the duplicate will function.