Car Keys Replacement Cost
It wasn't long ago that misplacing car keys was not a big issue. You could take your spare key to a key cutter and get a new one that cost less than $10.
Today, however, the process can be more complicated and expensive. Learn about the different types and costs of car keys.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob can be described as a remote and key in one. It's a small, plastic device with a button you can push to unlock doors and hatchbacks, open the trunk, roll down windows and maybe even start the car. The key fob has an electronic chip inside that communicates with the car's onboard system to control functions such as the starter.
Key fobs for basic use are typically made of 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 could cost anything from $50 to $100, but the actual price is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one.
If key replacement car was made within the past five years, chances are that you'll need to go to the dealership for a replacement fob, as many newer vehicles require specialized equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith shop or key shop is usually able to do this for less.
The kind of fob you own can affect the price. Older vehicles have mechanical key fobs while the most recent models utilize transponder keys. Both types of key fobs can come with a variety of functions. They can include keyless entry that locks and unlocks your car automatically or rolling codes that are changed frequently to stop thieves from stealing the information on the key fob.
You might be able to buy an aftermarket key fob for less than what you'd pay at the dealership however they might not work with your vehicle. Some manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips that block their key fobs from interacting with third party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket key fob when it's brought in, but it's likely that it won't function.
Read the owner's manual for your model or search the manufacturer's website for more information about programming your particular model's key fob. It's a good idea to try this yourself before going to the dealership or hiring an expert locksmith to do it. You can also look at the warranty of your vehicle, the roadside assistance and auto-insurance coverage to see if these cover the costs of a replacement key fob.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are found in most newer cars. These keys contain an embedded chip inside the key's head that transmits 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 is more secure than a traditional flat metal key because the transponder chip prevents the car from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was developed to stop car theft since it is nearly impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the proper equipment.
Many cars are also fitted with immobilizers that stop the vehicle from starting when they are operated with keys that do not have a transponder. Car thieves have devised methods of stealing cars with transponder key systems.
A locksmith is usually able to help you replace a lost or damaged transponder key. They'll need details of your vehicle, such as the VIN number and model. They will then either program your current key to the car's system, or cut an entirely new one. This procedure is more expensive than getting a car dealership to cut and program a replacement key.
Some automotive stores, like AutoZone and Walmart are also capable of cutting and re-copying the transponder keys, however they might not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. If you want to be sure that a professional will be able to handle the job, call a reputable and experienced locksmith company.
Before the invention of technology like this it was quite simple to create duplicate car keys and then hot wire a car. replacement key for car near me was a method used to steal cars and permitted criminals to steal stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced this crime, but not entirely eliminated it completely.
If you need a replacement transponder keys or you've lost yours, the best solution is to contact a professional and have them create it for you. It's more expensive than a standard one, but it's a much safer and more reliable alternative to ensure that someone else will not be able to start your car.
Keyless Entry System
Car key fobs are now an everyday feature in cars as more people want convenience, safety and security. They can open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, and even start the engine without an actual key. However, they also take a lot of abuse from being used in a variety of ways, and they're more likely to get lost or stolen than the metal keys. They're also expensive to replace, and you may need fob programming to pair your new one with your vehicle.
A basic key fob will cost ten or so dollars to get cut at an hardware store, but the most recent smart keys aren't cheap if you're looking to purchase the keys and have them programmed. Depending on your vehicle make and model you could expect to shell out between $200 and $500 for a replacement fob in addition to the cost of cutting it and programming it to your vehicle.
Certain advanced car key systems allow you to make use of your smartphone as a key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle remotely using the app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn on and off your lights, turn on your parking break, as well as perform other things based on how close you are to the car. These apps are ideal for those who live in urban areas, or even parents who are worried about your children leaving the car unattended.
Some of these systems can be expensive, but they're also more secure than a regular car key since they monitor your location and stop you from accidentally locking the car or turning on the engine in case you're not close enough. Certain of these systems will help you locate your vehicle in a garage, while others can notify you when you shut or open the doors.
These kinds of systems could also be beneficial to businesses, such as property managers who manage vacation rentals or office spaces. These systems permit them to check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. They can also make sure that only those with permissions are allowed to enter and exit the premises.
Dealership
Some people feel they must go to the dealer if keys are missing. They will need to show proof of ownership, and sometimes keys must be purchased from the manufacturer, which could take a few days. A dealer is usually able to complete the job more quickly than a locksmith, and could even cost less.
It is likely that the key fob will still need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done either at the dealership or by consulting your owner's guide. It involves closing and opening doors, and turning off lights and other electronic components on and off. It could even require pressing a set of buttons that act as codes. This is usually handled by the drivers, however it's always better to let a technician take care of it.
The year, make and model of the car will affect the price, too. Modern cars come with advanced transponder chips that need to be paired with the vehicle by a locksmith or a dealer, and the process can be more costly.
A dealer who sells a specific model of car is more likely be able to replace the keys for that particular vehicle. Some of the larger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have a variety of models and are familiar with keys.
Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the more established brands that have closed or are old enough that they no longer produce keys are included. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are some of the more established companies that have stopped producing keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. These keys are usually modified. This is more expensive and complicated than replacing the key.
In general, if you have a spare key, it is recommended to duplicate it at a specialist instead of getting an exchange from the dealer. You can avoid paying the more expensive rates for after-hours or weekend services. If you lose your keys, you can be assured that the duplicate will work.