Car Keys Replacement Cost
In the past, losing your car keys was not a big deal. You could take your spare to key cutters and purchase a new one for $10 or less.
Nowadays, however, the process is more complicated and costly. Learn about the various types and costs for keys for cars.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob can be described as an remote control as well as key in one. It's a small, plastic piece with a button that can be pushed to open doors or hatchbacks, open the trunk, roll down windows and, possibly, even start the vehicle. The key fob has an electronic chip inside that communicates with the car's onboard computer system to control functions such as the starter.
A basic key fob is usually made of plastic and employs a lock-and key mechanism, like the type you'd find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost anywhere from $50 to $100, but the actual price is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one.
You'll probably need to visit the dealer if the car is newer than five years. A lot of newer vehicles require special equipment to code and programme new keys. Locksmiths or key shops will usually be able to do this for less however.
The cost of your fob could also depend on the type you have. Older vehicles have mechanical key fobs while the latest models use transponder keys. Key fobs of both types can come with a range of features. They could include keyless entry that locks and unlocks your car automatically, or rolling codes that are updated frequently to stop thieves from intercepting the data on the key fob.
Key fobs purchased online may be less expensive than ones you can buy at the dealer, but they might not be compatible with your car. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru include security chips in their key fobs that block them from working with third-party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket key fob when it's brought in, but it's very likely that it won't work.
You can find information about programming your key fob by visiting the site of the manufacturer or in the owner's manual. It's worth trying to do this yourself prior to going to the dealership or paying a locksmith to do it. You can also look at the warranty of your vehicle, the auto-insurance policy and roadside assistance policy to see if they cover the costs of a replacement key fob.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are utilized in the majority of newer automobiles. These keys contain an embedded chip inside the key's head which transmits a signal 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 a conventional flat metal key due to the transponder chip prevents the car from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was designed to stop car theft since it is almost impossible to duplicate these keys without the proper equipment.
Additionally, many cars also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting when the key is not transponder-compatible. However, thieves have also developed ways to gain access and steal vehicles that have transponder keys.
A locksmith can help replace your transponder key if it is damaged or lost. They'll require the information about your specific vehicle, such as the VIN number along with the year, model and year. They'll either program your current key to the car's system or cut a new one. This is a more expensive procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys.
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. If you want to ensure that a professional will be able to handle the task, you should contact an experienced and trusted locksmith service.
It was fairly easy to make a duplicate key for a car and hot-wire a car prior to the advent of this new technology. This method was used to steal cars, and it allowed criminals to drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced the risk of this crime, but they haven't completely eliminated it.
If you need a new transponder key, or have lost yours, the best solution is to call an expert and have them make it for you. The cost will be higher than a traditional key but it is a much safer and better way to ensure that your car can't be started by anyone else.
Keyless Entry System
As increasing numbers of people seek convenience, safety and security, car key fobs have become a common feature. These devices are able to open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, or start the engine without having a physical key. They can also take some abuse from being tossed around and they are more likely to get lost or stolen than traditional keys. It's expensive to replace them, and you might need to program your new key to pair it with your vehicle.
A basic key fob costs around ten 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. Depending on your vehicle make and model you can expect to shell out between $200-$500 for a replacement fob, in addition to the cost of having it cut and programmed to your car.
Certain advanced car key systems allow you to use your phone as keys. You can lock or unlock your vehicle by using an app on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, activate your parking break, and do other things based on the proximity to the vehicle. These apps are ideal for those who live in urban areas or have children and are worried about them leaving the car unattended.
Some of these systems are expensive however, they're more secure than a regular car key because they can locate you and prevent you from locking the car or turning off the engine when you're far away. Some of these systems will help you locate your car in a garage, and others can notify you when you close or open the doors.
These types of systems can also be beneficial for companies, such as property managers that oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems are able to monitor the access rights for guests, cleaning staff, and maintenance personnel, while making sure that only those with the appropriate permissions are allowed to get in and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people may feel that they have to go to the dealer if keys go missing. The dealer will ask for proof of ownership and may order the key from the manufacturer. This could take several days. But a dealer can also usually get the job done for you faster than locksmiths, and may offer lower prices too.
The key fob could need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealer or by looking up the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, as well as switching off and on lights and other electronic devices. It may even require pressing a number of buttons that function as codes. Most of the time, this is performed by the driver however, it is best 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 can also be affected by the year, model and model of the vehicle.
A dealer who sells a particular model will be more likely to be able to change keys for the model. Some of the larger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a wide variety of models and are more acquainted with the keys that are used for those models.
Certain brands are more difficult to work with. This includes some of the more established firms that have been shut down or are old enough to have keys that are no longer being produced. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are some of the companies that are older and have stopped producing keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, auto key replacement of keys have to be reprogrammed and can be more difficult and more expensive than replacing the key itself.
It is best to get your spare key copied by a professional rather than purchasing a new one from the dealer. This way, you avoid paying the higher after-hours or weekend rates. If you lose your keys you can be sure that the duplicate will function.