Car Keys Replacement Cost
A few years ago, losing your car keys was not an issue. You could take your spare keys to an a key cutter and buy a new one for just $10 or less.
Nowadays, however, the process is more complex and expensive. Read on to learn about the various kinds of keys for cars and what they will cost you to replace them.
Basic Key Fob
Key fobs are an remote as well as a key in one. It's a tiny plastic device that houses one or more buttons that you push to unlock the doors and open the trunk or hatchback, roll down the windows, and possibly start the car. The key fob has a built-in electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard system to control functions like the starter.
A basic key fob is typically made of standard plastic and uses a regular lock-and-key mechanism, like the type you'd find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob may cost between $50 and $100, but the actual cost is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one.
You'll probably need to visit the dealer if the car is more than five years old. Many newer cars require special equipment to code and programme new keys. A locksmith or key shop will typically be able to do this for less.
The type of fob you're using will also affect the price. Older cars have mechanical key fobs while the most recent models utilize transponder keys. Key fobs of both types can come with a variety of features. They could include keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically or rolling codes that change regularly to prevent thieves from stealing the information on your key fob.
You might be able to buy an aftermarket key fob for less than the price you'd pay at the dealer however they might not be compatible with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru, have security chips inside their key fobs that block them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealers will program an aftermarket key fob when it's purchased, but it's highly unlikely that it will work.
Go through your owner's manual or visit the manufacturer's website to find information about programming your particular model's key fob. It's a good idea to try this yourself prior to going to the dealership or paying an expert locksmith. You could also check the warranty of your vehicle, the roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance policy to see 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. They have a chip embedded into the head that transmits a message to the vehicle after it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and starting the engine. This key type is more secure than traditional flat metal keys because transponder chips prevent the car from starting if it doesn't receive the right signal from the key. This technology was created to stop car theft since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these keys without the right equipment.
Many cars are also equipped with immobilizers that stop the vehicle from starting when they are operated by a key that is not transponder. However, car criminals have also come up with ways to steal and break into cars that are equipped with transponder keys.
car replacement key fob will usually be able to help you replace a lost or damaged transponder key. They will need the information about your vehicle like the VIN number and model. Then, they'll cut a new one or program the current one to your car's system. This is a little more expensive than simply having a car dealership cut and program a new key.
Some auto stores, such as AutoZone and Walmart can also be capable of cutting and copying the transponder key, however they might not be in a position to reprogram the chip inside the key. If you want to be sure that a professional can handle the job, contact an experienced and trusted locksmith business.
Before how much car key replacement of this technology it was fairly easy to make duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a vehicle. This method of stealing cars was very common and allowed criminals to get into and drive off with stolen vehicles. The advent of transponder keys has greatly reduced this activity, but it is not completely eliminated.
If you need a new transponder key, or have lost yours, the best solution is to contact an expert and let them do it for you. It's more expensive than a standard one, but it's a much safer and better option to ensure that anyone else cannot start your car.
Keyless Entry System
As increasing numbers of people want security, convenience, and safety, car key fobs have become a standard feature. These devices can open doors, trigger the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, and even start the engine without the physical key. But they can also take some abuse from being tossed around and they are more likely to get lost or stolen than metal keys. It's expensive to replace keys, and you might need to program your new key to pair it with your vehicle.
The cost of cutting a standard key fob at an hardware store is around 10 dollars. However, the newest smart keys can be expensive if you must purchase them as well as programme them. Based on your car's model and make you could expect to pay anywhere from $200 and $500 for a replacement fob plus the cost of having it cut and programmed to your car.
There are additionally more advanced car key systems that allow you to use your smartphone as a key. You can lock or unlock your car by using an app on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, activate your parking break, as well as perform other things based on the distance you're to the vehicle. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas or even if you're a parent that's concerned about your children leaving the car unsupervised.
Certain of these systems may be expensive, but they are more secure than a regular car key. They track your location to prevent you from locking or opening the car if you are far away. They also can help you find your car in parking garages and even alert you if the doors have been shut or opened.
These kinds of systems can also be beneficial for companies, such as property managers that oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems let them check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. They can also make sure that only those who have permissions are permitted to enter and exit.
Dealership
Some people may feel that they have to visit a dealership if keys go missing. They'll need to provide proof of ownership, and occasionally keys must be ordered from the manufacturer, which could take several days. But a dealer will usually get the job done for you quicker than locksmiths, and may have cheaper prices, too.
The key fob could require programming for your car. This can be done either at the dealer or by consulting your owner's guide. It involves opening and shutting doors, and switching off and on lights and other electronic devices. It could also involve pressing a series of buttons which acts as a code. This is often handled by the drivers, but it's always better to let an expert handle it.
The cost will also be dependent on the year, model and year of vehicle. The cost of the service could be affected by the year, make and model of the vehicle.
A dealer that sells a specific brand of vehicle is more likely to know how to replace the keys for the vehicle. Some of the larger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a wide variety of models and are more familiar with the keys that are used for the models they sell.
Some brands are harder to work with. This includes some of the more established companies that have closed, or are old enough to have keys that are no longer in production. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are some of the older companies that have stopped producing keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these keys have to be reprogrammed which is more difficult and expensive than replacing the key itself.
It is recommended that you have your spare key cloned by a specialist rather than purchasing an entirely new one from the dealer. You will avoid paying more expensive rates for after-hours or weekend services. If you lose your keys you can be assured that the cloned one will work.