Car Keys Replacement Cost
It wasn't too long ago that losing car keys was not a problem. You could bring your spare to an a key cutter and buy a new one for $10 or less.
However, the process has become more complicated and costly. Find out about the various kinds and costs of keys for cars.
Basic Key Fob
Key fobs are a remote and key in one. It's a small, plastic device equipped with a button which you can press to unlock doors and hatchbacks, open the trunk, lower windows and maybe even start the vehicle. The key fob comes with an electronic chip in it that communicates with your car's onboard systems for controlling functions such as the starter.
A basic key fob is generally made of standard plastic and employs a lock-and key mechanism, such as the one you'd find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob costs anywhere between $50 to $100, however you'll pay more if you need to replace one that's been damaged or lost.
You'll probably need to visit a dealer if your car is older than five years old. A lot of newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. Locksmiths or key shops can usually do this for less though.
The cost of the fob you purchase can also be affected by the type you own. Older vehicles have mechanical key fobs while the modern models have transponder keys. Both types of key fobs can come with a variety of functions. They can include keyless entry which locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically, or rolling codes that change regularly to prevent thieves from stealing the data on your key fob.
Key fobs that are available online could be cheaper than those you can buy at the dealer, but they may not work on your car. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from interfacing with third party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket key fob if it's purchased, but it's highly unlikely that it will function.
Go through your owner's manual or go to the manufacturer's site for more information on programming your specific model's key fob. It's worth trying this yourself before going to the dealer or hiring a locksmith to do it. key fob replacement could also check your car's warranty, roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance coverage to see if these will cover the cost of a replacement key fob.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are utilized in the majority of newer automobiles. They have embedded chips in the head which transmits a message to the vehicle once it is inserted in 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 blocks a car from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was created to reduce car theft as it is almost impossible to duplicate these kinds of keys without the appropriate equipment.
Many cars are also equipped with immobilizers that prevent the vehicle from starting when they are operated with a key that is not transponder. Car thieves have come up with ways to steal cars equipped with transponder key systems.
A locksmith will usually be able to help you replace a lost or damaged transponder key. They'll require the details about your specific vehicle, such as the VIN number along with the year, model and year. They will then either program your existing key to the car's computer system or cut a new one. This process is a bit more expensive than having a car dealership cut and program a new key.
Some automotive stores, like AutoZone and Walmart can also be able to cut and copy the transponder key, however they may not be in a position to reprogram the chip inside the key. If you want to be sure that a professional will be able to handle the job, contact an experienced and trusted locksmith business.
Before the advent of this technology it was quite easy to make a duplicate car key and then hot wire a vehicle. This technique was used to steal cars, and it permitted criminals to steal stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have greatly reduced the risk of this crime, but it isn't entirely eliminated it.
You can call an expert to do this for you if you require an alternative transponder key or if you've lost yours. It's more expensive 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 key fobs for cars have become a standard feature. These little transmitters can unlock doors, activate the panic alarm or open the trunk and even start your engine without having the physical key in your hands. But they can also endure a lot of abuse from being tossed around, and they're more likely to get lost or stolen than traditional keys. They're also expensive to replace, and you might need fob programming to pair your new key with your vehicle.
A basic key fob will cost ten or so dollars to cut at the hardware store, however the latest smart keys aren't cheap if you're looking to purchase the keys and have them programmed. It is possible to spend between $200 and $500 on a replacement key fob. This includes the cost to have it cut and programmed for your car.
Some sophisticated car key systems let you use your phone as keys. You can lock or unlock your vehicle via the app on your phone. You can also turn on and off your lights, turn on your parking break, and do other tasks based on the distance you're to the vehicle. They are perfect for people who reside in urban areas or even parents who are worried about your kids leaving the car unsupervised.
Certain of these systems are expensive however they're also more secure than a regular car key as they locate you 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 vehicle in a garage, while others can alert you if you open or close the doors.
These types of systems can also be beneficial to businesses, such as property managers that oversee vacation rentals or office spaces. These systems can allow them to monitor the access rights for guests, cleaning staff, and maintenance workers, while ensuring that only those with the appropriate permissions are allowed to get in and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people may think that they need to go to the dealership when their keys are lost. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership, and could purchase the key from the manufacturer. This can take several days. However, a dealer can usually get the job done for you much faster than locksmiths, and they may have cheaper prices, too.
The key fob could require programming for your vehicle. This can be done through the dealer or reading the owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors, as well as turning lights and other electronics on and off. It could even require pressing a number of buttons that function as an electronic code. This is usually handled by the drivers, however it is always best to let a technician take care of it.
The cost can also be affected by the year, model and year of vehicle. Newer cars have advanced transponder chips that require pairing with the car by a locksmith or dealer, and the process can be more costly.
A dealer that sells a particular brand of car is more likely to know how to replace the keys for the vehicle. Some of the biggest manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan, have a large number of models and are more familiar with the keys for the specific models.
Certain brands are more difficult to work with. This includes a few of the older firms that have been shut down or are old enough to have keys that are no longer being produced. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. The keys are typically reprogrammed. This is more expensive and complicated than replacing the key.
It is recommended to have your spare key cloned by a professional rather than purchasing another one from the dealer. That way you can avoid having to pay for the higher after-hours or weekend rates. If you do lose your keys, you can rest assured that the key cloned will work.