Car Keys Replacement Cost
In the past, losing your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could take your spare key to a key cutting shop for the replacement key for less than $10.
Nevertheless the process has gotten more complex and expensive. Find out about the various kinds and costs of keys for cars.
Basic Key Fob
Key fobs are an electronic remote control and key in one. It's a tiny plastic device that houses a button or buttons that you press to unlock the doors and open the trunk or hatchback, open the windows, and possibly start the car. The key fob is equipped with an electronic chip built in that communicates with the car's onboard systems to control functions such as the starter.
A basic key fob is generally constructed of plastic that utilizes a standard lock-and-key mechanism, such as the type you'd find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob may cost anything from $50 to $100, but the actual price is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one.
If your car was built in the past five years, chances that you'll have to visit the dealership to get a replacement fob as many newer cars require special equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith or a key shop is usually able to do this for less.
The type of fob you have can also impact the cost. Older vehicles use mechanical keys, whereas the latest models usually have transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of key fobs can come with a variety of functions. They may include keyless entry, which locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically or rolling codes that are updated frequently to stop thieves from stealing the information on your key fob.
You may be able to buy an aftermarket key fob for less than what you'd pay at a dealership however, they may not work with your vehicle. Some manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru, have security chips in their key fobs, which 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 chance it won't continue to function.
You can find information about programming your key fob by searching the website of the manufacturer or the owner's guide. Try to do this yourself before hiring for a locksmith or going to the dealer. You can also check your vehicle's warranty, auto-insurance policy and roadside assistance coverage to determine if they will cover the cost of a replacement fob for your key.
Transponder Key
Most modern cars utilize a type of key called a transponder key. The keys have a chip embedded in the head of the key that sends a signal to the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and starting the engine. This key type is more secure than conventional flat metal keys because a transponder chip prevents the car from starting if it fails to receive an appropriate signal from the key. This technology was developed to stop car theft since it is nearly impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the proper equipment.
In addition, many cars also come with immobilizer systems that stop them from starting if the key is not transponder-compatible. Car thieves have come up with ways to steal cars equipped with transponder key systems.
A locksmith can assist you to replace your transponder keys if it's damaged or lost. They will need the details of your vehicle like the VIN number and model. They will then cut a new key or program the current one to the car's system. This process is a bit more expensive than cutting a key from a dealership and program a new key.
Some stores for automotive, such as AutoZone and Walmart, are also capable of cutting and copying the transponder key, however they may not be in a position to reprogram the chip in the key. You should contact a reputable and experienced locksmith firm to be sure that a professional is able to handle the task.
Before the invention of technology like this, it was relatively simple to create duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a car. This technique was used to steal cars and it allowed criminals to drive away with stolen vehicles. The advent of the transponder key has greatly reduced the likelihood of this happening, but it is not completely eliminated.
You can get an expert to handle this for you in the event that you require an alternative transponder key or if you lost yours. It will cost more than a standard key but it's a safer and more reliable option to ensure that someone else is unable to start your car.
Keyless Entry System
As increasing numbers of people seek security, convenience, and safety keys for their cars have become a common feature. These tiny transmitters can open doors, set off the alarm for panic and open the trunk and even start your car without having to carry a physical key in your hand. They can be tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. It's expensive to replace keys, and you might need to program your new key to pair it with your vehicle.
A standard key fob can cost about ten dollars to cut at an hardware store, but the most recent smart keys can be expensive if you're looking to purchase them and have them programmed. You can expect to spend between $200 and $500 for a replacement key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed for your car.
Certain advanced car key systems let you make use of your smartphone as keys. You can lock or unlock your vehicle via the app on your phone. You can also turn off and on your lights, activate your parking break, and perform other tasks depending on the proximity to your vehicle. They are perfect for people who reside in urban areas or even parents who are worried about your children leaving the car without supervision.
Some of these systems are expensive however they're also more secure than a standard car key since they track your location and prevent you from accidentally locking the car or turning off the engine if you're too far away. They can also assist you to locate your car inside garages that have parking spaces, and some can warn you when the doors are shut or opened.
These types of systems can also be beneficial to companies, such as property managers who manage office space or vacation rentals. These systems can allow them to monitor access rights of guests, cleaning staff, and maintenance staff, as well as making sure that only those with the right permissions can get in and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people might feel that they must visit a dealership if their keys disappear. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership and purchase the key from the manufacturer. This could take several days. However, a dealer can typically complete the task for you faster than locksmiths, and they may have cheaper prices, too.
key car replacement is likely that the key fob will need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done either through the dealer or consulting your owner's guide. It involves closing and opening doors, and turning off lights and other electronics on and off. It could also require pressing a set of buttons which acts as an electronic code. This is often handled by the drivers, but it's always better to let a technician manage it.
The year, make and model of the car will affect the price, too. Newer cars have sophisticated transponder chips which will need to be paired with the vehicle by a locksmith or a dealer and the process could be more costly.
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, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have a variety of models and are well-versed in the keys.
Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have closed or are old enough that they no longer produce keys are included. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are among the more established companies that have stopped producing keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. The keys are typically modified. This is more expensive and time-consuming than replacing the key.
It is recommended to have your spare key cloned by a specialist rather than getting a new one from a dealer. That way you can avoid having to pay for the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. Then, if you lose your keys, you can rest easy knowing that the key cloned will function.