Car Keys Replacement Cost
In the past, losing your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could bring your spare to a key cutter and get a new one for $10 or less.
Today, however the process is more complicated and costly. Learn about the different types and costs for keys for cars.
Basic Key Fob
Key fobs are an electronic remote and a key in one. It's a tiny plastic device that has a button or buttons that you can push to unlock the doors and open the trunk or hatchback, lower the windows, and perhaps start the car. The key fob has an electronic chip embedded that communicates with the car's onboard systems to control functions like the starter.
A basic key fob is typically 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 may cost anywhere from $50 to $100, but the true cost is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one.
You'll likely need to visit the dealer if your car is more than five years old. A lot of newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or key shop typically can perform this task for less, though.
The cost of your fob could also depend on the type of fob you have. Older cars use mechanical key fobs while the modern models have transponder keys. Both of these types are able to have a range of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the car automatically to changing codes on a regular basis to prevent thieves from taking and using your car's key fob data.
Key fobs that are available online could be cheaper than those you can purchase from a dealer, but they might not work with your vehicle. Some manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips that prevent their key fobs from working with third-party devices. Some dealers can program an aftermarket key fob if it's brought in, however it's very likely that it won't function.
You can find out more about programming your key fob by looking up the site of the manufacturer or in 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 and auto-insurance policy to see whether they cover the cost of a new key fob.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are found in most newer cars. The keys contain embedded chips in the head that transmits an electronic message to the vehicle once it is inserted in the ignition cylinder. replace keys is used for unlocking the car and for starting the engine. This type of key is more secure than conventional flat metal keys since transponder chips stop the car from starting if it doesn't receive a signal from the correct key. This technology was created to prevent theft of cars since it is almost impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the proper equipment.
Additionally, many vehicles also have immobilizer systems that prevent them from starting if keys that are not transponder compatible are used. 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 will need to have the details about your specific vehicle, such as the VIN number, model and year. Then, they'll cut a new key or program the current one to your car's security system. This is a more costly procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys.
Some automotive stores, like AutoZone and Walmart are also able to cut and copy the transponder key, however they may not be able 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 company.
Before the advent of this technology, it was relatively easy to make duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a car. This technique was used to steal cars, and it allowed criminals drive away with stolen vehicles. The advent of transponder keys has greatly reduced this activity but it's not completely eliminated.
You can get an expert to do this for you in the event that you require an alternative transponder key or if you've lost one. The cost will be more than a standard key, but it's a safer and better way to ensure that your car cannot be started by someone else.
Keyless Entry System
As more and more people demand security, convenience, and safety key fobs for cars have become a standard feature. These tiny devices can unlock doors, set off the alarm that sounds a panic, open the trunk, and even start your engine without having to have a physical key in your hand. They can also endure some abuse from being used in a variety of ways, and they're more likely to get lost or stolen than the metal keys. This means they're costly to replace, and you might need fob programming to pair your new key with your vehicle.
A standard key fob can cost ten or so dollars to get cut at an hardware store, but the most recent smart keys can be expensive if you want to purchase them and have them programmed. It is possible to spend between $200 and $500 on the replacement key fob. This includes the cost to have it cut and programmed for your vehicle.
Certain advanced car key systems let you use your smartphone as an actual key. You can lock or unlock your car remotely using the app on your phone. You can also turn off and on your lights, turn on your parking break, and perform other tasks depending on the proximity to the car. This is ideal for people who reside in urban areas, or if you have children and worry about them leaving the car unattended.
Certain of these systems can be expensive however, they're more secure than a standard car key since they track your location and prevent you from accidentally locking your car or turning on the engine in case you're not close enough. Certain systems can help you locate your car in a garage and others will notify you when you shut or open the doors.
These systems can also be useful for businesses such as property managers who manage vacation rentals or offices. These systems let them monitor access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also make sure that only those who have permissions are allowed in and out.
Dealership
Some people may think that they have to visit a dealership if their keys are lost. The dealer will ask for proof of ownership, and could purchase keys from the manufacturer. This can take several days. A dealer is usually able to complete the job quicker than a locksmith, and might even charge 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 reading the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, and switching off and on lights and other electronic devices. It could even require pressing a number of buttons that act as a code. This is often handled by the driver, but it's always better to let an expert handle it.
The cost can also be dependent on the year, make and type of vehicle. Modern cars come with sophisticated transponder chips which will require pairing with the car by a locksmith dealer and the process may be more expensive.
A dealer that sells a particular brand of car is more likely to know how to replace the keys for that vehicle. Some of the biggest manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have several models and are familiar with keys.
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 being produced. 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. These keys are usually reprogrammed. This is more expensive and complicated than replacing the key.
In general, if you have a spare key, it is best to get it copied by an expert instead of obtaining a replacement from the dealer. You can avoid paying the higher prices for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys, you can be sure that the cloned key will work.