Car Keys Replacement Cost
It wasn't long ago that losing car keys was not a big issue. You could bring your spare to a key cutter and get a new one for $10 or less.
Today, however the process is more complex and costly. Read on to learn about the various kinds of keys for cars and what they can cost you to replace them.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob is both an electronic remote and a key in one. It's a small plastic device that contains one or more buttons that you can push to unlock the doors and open the trunk or hatchback, roll down the windows, and perhaps start the car. The key fob is equipped with an electronic chip embedded that communicates with the car's onboard systems for controlling functions such as the starter.
vehicle key replacement are constructed from plastic that is standard, and use a regular lock and key mechanism. They are the same as those that were used on the old Pontiacs and Saturns. A basic key fob costs anywhere between $50-$100, but you'll be charged more if you require a replacement for one that's damaged or lost.
You'll likely need to visit the dealer if your car is older than five years old. Most newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith shop or key shop is usually in a position to provide this service for less.
The kind of fob you own will also affect the price. Older vehicles use mechanical key fobs, while modern models usually come with transponder keys or smart keys. Both of these types come with a variety of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the car 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 purchase from a dealer, but they may not work on your car. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from working with third-party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket key fob if it's brought in, but it's very likely that it won't function.
You can get information on programming your key fob by visiting the manufacturer's site or the owner's manual. It is recommended to try this yourself prior to paying for a locksmith or going to the dealer. You can also look at your vehicle's warranty, roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance coverage to see if these cover the costs of a replacement fob for your key.
Transponder Key
Most modern cars utilize keys of a different type, known as a transponder key. The keys have an embedded chip in the key's head that sends a signal to the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and start the engine. This type of key is more secure than conventional flat metal keys because transponder chips prevent the car from starting if it does not receive an appropriate signal from the key. This technology was created to stop car theft since it is nearly impossible to duplicate these keys without the right equipment.
Many cars are also fitted with immobilizers that stop the vehicle from starting when they are operated by keys that do not have a transponder. However, thieves have also devised methods to break into and steal cars that are equipped with transponder keys.
A locksmith can assist you repair your transponder key in the event that it's damaged or stolen. They'll need the details of your particular vehicle, including the VIN number as well as the model and year. Then, they'll cut a new key or program the existing one to your car's system. This procedure is more expensive than simply cutting a key from a dealership and program a new key.
Some stores for automotive like AutoZone or Walmart can cut and copy transponder keys but they aren't capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. It is recommended to contact an experienced and reputable locksmith service to be sure that a professional is capable of handling the job.
Before the advent of this technology it was quite easy to make a duplicate car key and then hot wire a vehicle. This was a method used to steal cars and it permitted criminals to steal stolen vehicles. The advent of transponder keys has drastically reduced this crime however, it's not completely eliminated.
You can call an expert to handle this for you if you require a replacement transponder key, or if you've lost yours. The cost will be more than a conventional key, however it's a safer and better method to ensure that your car can't be started by anyone else.
Keyless Entry System
Car key fobs are becoming a standard feature of vehicles as more people seek convenience, safety and security. They can open doors, trigger the panic alarm, open the trunk, or start the engine without an actual key. They can be thrown around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. It's costly to replace them, and you might have to program your new fob to pair it with your vehicle.
The cost of cutting a basic 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 program them. Depending on your vehicle make and model you could expect to shell out between $200-$500 for a replacement fob, and the cost of having it cut and programmed to your vehicle.
There are also more advanced car key systems that let you make use of your smartphone as an actual key. By using the app on your phone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car, and you can also switch on and off, activate your parking brake, and perform other things depending on your proximity to the car. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas, or have children and worry about them leaving the car unattended.
Some of these systems could be costly, but they are more secure than the standard car key. They track your location to prevent you from accidentally locking or starting the car if you're too far from. Some of these 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 companies such as property managers who oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems can allow them to monitor the access rights of guests cleaners, guests, and maintenance personnel, while ensuring that only those who have the right permissions can get in and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people feel they must visit a dealer when their keys are missing. They will need to show proof of ownership, and sometimes the key must be ordered from the manufacturer, which can take a few days. But a dealer will usually get the job done for you much faster than locksmiths, and might have lower prices, as well.
It is likely that the key fob will need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by looking up the owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, and switching off and on lights and other electronic devices. It could even involve pressing a combination of buttons which acts as an electronic code. Most of the time, this is done by the driver, but it is better to have a technician handle it.
The cost will also be affected by the year, model and year of vehicle. The cost of the service could also be affected by the year, model and model of the vehicle.
A dealer who sells specific brand of car is more likely to know how to replace keys for that vehicle. Some of the larger 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.
Other 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 in production. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. Typically, these types of keys require reprogramming which is more difficult and more expensive than replacing the key itself.
In general, if you have a spare key, it is usually best to get it copied by a specialist instead of getting an exchange from the dealer. You can avoid paying the more expensive rates for after-hours or weekend services. If you do lose your keys you can rest easy knowing that the cloned key will work.