Car Keys Replacement Cost
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing car keys was not a major issue. You could bring your spare key to a key cutter for the replacement key for less than $10.
Nowadays, however, the process is more complex and expensive. Learn about the different types and costs for keys for cars.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob is both a remote and key in one. It's a tiny plastic device that has buttons or buttons that you 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 inside that communicates with the car's onboard system to control functions like the starter.
A basic key fob is usually made of standard plastic and employs a lock-and key mechanism, such as the type you'd find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob may cost between $50 and $100, but the true cost is when you need to replace a lost or damaged one.
If your car was built within the past five years, chances are you'll need to visit the dealer to get a replacement fob as many newer vehicles require specialized equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith or a key shop will usually be able to do this for less, however.
The cost of your fob could be affected by the type you have. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, while latest models use transponder keys. Both types of key fobs can come with a range of features. They could include keyless entry which locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically or rolling codes that are updated frequently to keep thieves from stealing the data on the key fob.
Online key fobs may be less expensive than ones you can get from the dealer, but they may not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from interacting with third-party devices. Some dealerships will program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in but there's a good chance it won't continue to function.
You can find out more about programming your key fob by visiting the website of the manufacturer or your owner's guide. You should try to do this yourself before hiring for a locksmith or going to the dealer. You may also want to check your vehicle's warranty and auto-insurance policy to determine if they cover the cost of a new key fob.
Transponder Key
Most newer cars use keys of a different type, known as a transponder key. These keys have an embedded chip in the head that sends a message to the vehicle once it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and starting the engine. This key is more secure than a traditional flat metal key because the transponder chip prevents the car from starting without the correct signal. This technology was created to prevent theft of cars because it is almost impossible to duplicate these keys without the proper equipment.
Many vehicles 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 assist you in replacing the damaged or lost transponder key. They will need to have the details of your particular vehicle, such as the VIN number as well as the model and year. Then, they'll either cut a new key or program the current one to your car's security system. This procedure is more expensive than having a car dealership cut and program a new key.
Some auto stores such as AutoZone or Walmart can cut and duplicate transponder keys however, they may not be capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. It is recommended to contact an experienced and reputable locksmith company if you want to ensure that a professional is able to handle the task.
Before the advent of technology like this, it was relatively simple to create duplicate car keys and then hot wire a vehicle. This method of stealing cars was very widespread and allowed criminals to enter and drive off with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have greatly reduced the risk of this crime, but they haven't completely eliminated it completely.
You can call a professional to do this for you in the event that you require an alternative transponder key or if you've lost yours. auto key replacements 's more expensive than a standard key but it's a safer and more secure option to ensure that anyone else is unable to start your car.
Keyless Entry System
As more and more people demand security, convenience, and safety, car key fobs have become a common feature. These tiny transmitters can open doors, set off the panic alarm and open the trunk and even start your car without having to have a physical key in your hands. They can be thrown around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. This means they're costly to replace, and you might require fob programming in order to pair your new one with your vehicle.
A standard key fob can cost about ten dollars to get cut at an hardware store, but the most recent smart keys aren't cheap when you need to buy them and then have them programmed. Based on the make and model you could expect to pay between $200-$500 for a replacement fob in addition to the cost of cutting it and programming it to your car.
There are additionally more advanced car key systems that allow you to make use of your smartphone as a key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle via the app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, turn on your parking break, as well as perform other tasks based on the proximity to the car. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas or if you have children and worry about your children being in the car without supervision.
Some of these systems can be costly, but they are more secure than a standard car key. They keep track of your location to prevent you from locking or starting the car if you are far away. Certain of these systems will help you locate your car in a garage, and others can alert you if you open or close the doors.
These systems are also useful for businesses like property managers who manage office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to monitor 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 might feel that they must go to the dealership when keys go missing. They will need to show proof of ownership, and occasionally keys must be ordered from the manufacturer, which can take a few days. A dealer can usually do the job faster than a locksmith, and may even charge less.
It is likely that the key fob will still require programming to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by consulting the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors and turning lights and other electronics on and off. It may even require pressing a set of buttons which act as codes. Often, this can be done by the driver, however, it is best to have a technician perform it.
The year, make and model of the car will impact the price, too. The cost of the service may also be affected by the year, model and model of the vehicle.
A dealer that sells a particular brand of car is more likely know how to replace keys for that vehicle. Some of the biggest manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a wide number of models and are more acquainted with the keys that are used for those models.
Other brands are more difficult to work with. This includes a few of the older companies that have closed, or are old enough to have keys that are no longer being produced. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. Typically, these types of keys require reprogramming and can be more difficult and expensive than replacing the key itself.
It is recommended to get your spare key copied by a professional rather than getting a new one from a dealer. This way, you avoid having to pay for the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. If you do lose your keys you can rest assured that the key cloned will function.