Car Keys Replacement Cost
It wasn't long ago that misplacing keys to cars was not a big issue. You could take your spare to key cutters and purchase an additional one for $10 or less.
Today, however the process can be more complicated and costly. Learn about the different types and costs for keys for cars.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob can be described as an remote as well as a key in one. It's a small plastic device that contains a button or buttons that you can push to unlock the doors, open the trunk or hatchback, roll down the windows, and perhaps start the car. The key fob comes with an electronic chip embedded that communicates with the car's onboard systems to regulate functions such as the starter.
A basic key fob is usually made of standard plastic and utilizes a standard lock-and-key mechanism, such as the one you'd find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost anything from $50 to $100, but the true cost is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one.
You'll probably need to visit the dealer if your car is more than five years old. Many newer cars require special equipment to code and programme new keys. A locksmith or a key shop is usually able to do this at a lower cost.
The kind of fob you own will also affect the price. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, while latest models use transponder keys. Both 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 stealing the data from your key fob.
Online key fobs may be less expensive than the ones you can get from the dealer, but they might not work with your vehicle. Some manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips that block their key fobs from working with third-party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket key fob when it's brought in, but it's highly unlikely that it will function.
Check your owner's manual or visit the manufacturer's website for information about programming your particular model's key fob. It's worth trying to do this yourself before going to the dealer or hiring an expert locksmith to do it. You could also check your vehicle's warranty, auto-insurance policy and roadside assistance coverage to see if these cover the costs of a replacement fob for your key.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are used in the majority of modern cars. These keys contain an embedded chip in the head of the key which transmits a signal the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and begin the engine. This key is more secure than a traditional flat metal keys because the transponder chip prevents cars from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was created to stop car theft since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these kinds of keys without the appropriate equipment.
In addition, many cars also have immobilizer systems that prevent them from starting if keys that are not transponder compatible are used. However, car criminals have also come up with methods to break into and steal cars that are equipped with transponder keys.
A locksmith will usually be able to assist you in replacing a lost or damaged transponder key. They will need the details about your car including the VIN number and model. They'll either program your current key to the car's system or cut new keys. This is a more expensive procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys.
Some stores for automotive, such as AutoZone and Walmart are also capable of cutting and re-copying the transponder keys, however they might not be able to reprogram the chip inside the key. It is best to call an experienced and reputable locksmith service to be sure that a professional is capable of handling the job.
It was fairly easy to create duplicate keys for a car, and then hot-wire a car prior to the advent of this new technology. This method of stealing cars was frequent and allowed criminals to enter and drive off with stolen vehicles. The introduction of transponder keys has drastically reduced this crime, but it is not completely eliminated.
car key replacement can contact an expert to do this for you if you require a replacement transponder key, or if you lost yours. It will cost more than a standard one, however it's a safer and more reliable option to ensure that someone else will not be able to start your car.
Keyless Entry System
As increasing numbers of people want security, convenience, and safety, car key fobs are now a standard feature. These devices are able to open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, or start the engine without having the physical key. They can be tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. That means they're expensive to replace, and you might require fob programming to connect your new key with your vehicle.
The cost of cutting a standard fob for a key at an hardware store is around ten dollars. However, the newest smart keys can be costly when you need to purchase them as well as programme them. Depending on your vehicle model and make you can expect to pay between $200-$500 for a replacement fob in addition to the cost of having it cut and programmed to your car.
Certain advanced car key systems allow you to make use of your smartphone as a key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle by using an app on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, turn on your parking break, and perform other things based on how close you are to your car. These are great for people who reside in urban areas or if you're a parent that's worried about your children leaving the car unsupervised.
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 starting the car if you're far from. They also can help you locate your car in a parking garage and even alert you if the doors have been open or closed.
These kinds of systems could also be useful for companies, such as property managers that oversee office space or vacation rentals. These systems can allow them to monitor access rights of guests, cleaning staff, and maintenance workers, while ensuring that only those who have the right permissions can get into and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people believe they need to go to the dealer if keys are missing. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership, and could order the key from the manufacturer. This can take several days. But a dealer will generally complete the task for you quicker than locksmiths, and they may offer lower prices as well.
The key fob may still require programming for your car. This can be done either at the dealership or by reading the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, as well as turning lights and other electronics on and off. It could also involve pressing a combination of buttons which acts as the code. This is often handled by the driver, but it's best to let an expert 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, model and model of the vehicle.
A dealer that sells a certain brand of car will be more likely to have the knowledge to replace keys for the model. Some of the larger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a wide number of models, and are more acquainted with the keys that are used for the specific models.
Certain 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 produce keys are included. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are some of the older companies that do not produce keys anymore. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these kinds of keys have to be reprogrammed which is more complicated and costly than replacing the key itself.
It is best to have your spare key cloned by a professional rather than purchasing another one from the dealer. You can avoid paying the higher prices for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys, you can rest easy knowing that the copied key will function.