Car Keys Replacement Cost
Not long ago, misplacing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could bring your spare key to a key cutting shop for the replacement key for $10 or less.
However the process has gotten more complex and expensive. Find out more about the various types of keys for cars and what they'll cost you to replace them.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob is an remote control as well as a key in one. It's a small plastic device that has one or more buttons that you push to unlock the doors and trunk, open the hatchback, roll down the windows, and possibly start the car. The key fob has an electronic chip built in that communicates with your car's onboard systems for controlling functions such as the starter.
A basic key fob is generally constructed of plastic that employs a lock-and key mechanism, like the kind you might find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob costs anywhere between $50 to $100, however you'll pay more if need to replace one that has been damaged or lost.
If your car was manufactured in the last five years, chances that you'll have to visit the dealer for a replacement fob, as many newer vehicles require specialized equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or a key shop will usually be able to do this for less, however.
The cost of your fob can be affected by the type you own. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, whereas the latest models usually have transponder keys or smart keys. Both 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 stop thieves from stealing and using your car's key fob data.
You may be able to buy an aftermarket key fob online for less than the price you'd pay at the dealership, but these may not be compatible with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips that prevent their key fobs from interacting with third party devices. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob if it's brought in, but it's very likely that it won't function.
You can find out more about programming your key fob by looking up the website of the manufacturer or the owner's guide. It's worth trying this yourself before going to the dealership or paying an expert locksmith. You can also check your car'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
Transponder keys are utilized in most newer cars. These keys contain an embedded chip in the key's head that transmits a signal to the vehicle when it is inserted into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and for starting the engine. This key is more secure than the traditional flat metal key because the transponder chip stops cars from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was designed to stop car theft since it is nearly impossible to duplicate these keys without the right equipment.
Many vehicles are also equipped with immobilizers that prevent them from being started when they are operated by keys that are not transponder. However, car thieves have also developed ways to steal and break into vehicles that have transponder keys.
auto key replacement can help replace your transponder key if it is damaged or lost. They will require details about your car, such as the VIN number and model. They will then either program your existing key to the car's computer system or cut new keys. This is a more expensive 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 might not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. It is best to call an experienced and reputable locksmith service to be sure that a professional will be able to handle the task.
Before the advent of technology like this it was quite easy for someone to make a duplicate car key and then hot wire a car. This technique was used to steal cars and allowed criminals drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have drastically reduced 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 lost yours. It will cost more than a standard key but it's a safer and better option to ensure that anyone else cannot start your car.
Keyless Entry System
As increasing numbers of people seek security, convenience, and safety keys for their cars have become a standard feature. These transmitters can open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, or start the engine without having the physical key. But they can also take some abuse from being used in a variety of ways, and they are more likely to get lost or stolen than traditional keys. This means they're costly to replace, and you might require fob programming in order to pair the new key with your vehicle.
A basic key fob costs around ten dollars to cut at an hardware store, but the most recent smart keys aren't cheap if you need to buy them and have them programmed. Based on the make and model you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $500 for a replacement fob and the cost of cutting it and programming it to your car.
There are additionally more advanced car key systems that let you use your smartphone as an actual key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle via the app on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, turn on your parking break, and perform other tasks depending on how close you are to the vehicle. These are perfect for those who reside in urban areas or if you have children and are worried about your children being in the car without supervision.
Certain of these systems are costly however they're also more secure than a standard car key since they monitor your location and stop you from accidentally locking your car or turning on the engine when you're far away. They can also help you find your car in parking garages, and some can warn you when the doors are shut or opened.
These systems can also be useful for businesses such as property managers who 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 with permissions are allowed to enter and exit the premises.
Dealership
Some people may think that they must go to the dealer if keys go missing. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership, and could purchase the key from the manufacturer. This can take several days. But a dealer will usually get the job done for you quicker than locksmiths, and might have lower prices, too.
It is likely that the key fob will need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by referring to the owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, as well as switching off or 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 performed by the driver but it is better to have a technician do it.
The year, make and model of the car will impact the cost as well. The cost of the service may be affected by the year, model and model of the vehicle.
A dealer that sells a specific brand of car is more likely to know how to replace keys for that particular vehicle. Some of the larger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a wide number of models and are more acquainted with the keys that are used for the models they sell.
Certain brands are difficult to work with. This includes a few of the older companies that have shut down, or are old enough to have keys that are no longer in production. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are a few of the older companies that no longer produce keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these keys have to be reprogrammed, which can be more difficult and more expensive than replacing the key itself.
It is recommended that you get your spare key copied by a professional instead of purchasing an entirely new one from the dealer. That way you can avoid having to pay the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. If you lose your keys, you can be assured that the cloned key will function.