Car Keys Replacement Cost
A few years ago, losing your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could take your spare key to a key cutting shop for an alternative that cost less than $10.
Nevertheless the process has gotten more complicated and costly. Learn about the various types and costs for car keys.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob is a remote control and an actual key in one. It's a small, plastic piece with a button you can push to unlock doors, open the hatchback or trunk, open windows, roll them down and maybe even start your car. The key fob also has an embedded electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard computer system to control functions such as the starter.
Key fobs for basic use are typically made from standard plastic, and use a regular lock and key mechanism. They're the same as those that were used on the old Pontiacs and Saturns. A basic key fob can cost anywhere from $50 to $100, but the actual cost comes when you have to replace a lost or damaged one.
You'll likely have to visit a dealer if your vehicle is older than five years old. A lot of newer vehicles require special equipment to code and programme new keys. A locksmith shop or key shop will typically be able to do this at a lower cost.
The cost of your fob could also be affected by the type you have. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, while modern models usually come with transponder keys or smart keys. Key fobs of both types can come with a variety of functions. They may include keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically, or rolling codes that are updated regularly to prevent thieves from intercepting the data on your key fob.
Key fobs that are available online could be cheaper than those you can purchase from a dealer, but they may not work with your vehicle. Some manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from interacting with third-party devices. Some dealerships can program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in but there's a good chance it won't continue to function.
Check your owner's manual or go to the manufacturer's site for more information on programming your specific model's key fob. It's worth trying this yourself before going to the dealer or hiring an expert locksmith to do it. You can also look at your vehicle's warranty, auto-insurance policy and roadside assistance policy to see if they cover the costs of a replacement key fob.
Transponder Key
Most newer cars use keys that are known as a transponder key. These keys have an embedded chip in the head that sends an electronic message to the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and begin the engine. This key is more secure than the conventional flat metal key due to the transponder chip blocks cars from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was designed to prevent theft of cars since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the right equipment.
Additionally, many vehicles also have immobilizer systems that prevent them from starting if the key is not transponder-compatible. Car thieves have devised methods to steal vehicles with transponder key systems.
A locksmith can help you repair your transponder key in the event that it's damaged or stolen. They will need the details about your car including the VIN number and model. They will then cut a new one or program the current one to your car's security system. This is a more expensive process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.
Some stores for automotive, such as AutoZone and Walmart are also able to cut and copy the transponder key, however they may not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. It is best to call an experienced and reliable locksmith service to ensure that a professional will be able to handle the task.
Before the advent of this technology it was quite easy to make duplicate car keys and then hot wire a vehicle. This was a method used to steal cars and it permitted criminals to steal stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced this crime, but not entirely eliminated it.
You can contact a professional 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, however it's a safer and more reliable alternative to ensure that someone else will not be able to start your car.
Keyless Entry System
As more and more people demand security, convenience, and safety keys for their cars have become a standard feature. These tiny transmitters can open doors, activate the alarm for panic and open the trunk and even start your engine without having the physical key in your hands. They can also endure quite a beating from being tossed around, and are more likely to get lost or stolen than the metal keys. This means they're costly to replace, and you may require fob programming in order to pair the new key with your vehicle.
The cost of cutting a standard key fob at a hardware shop is around 10 dollars. However, the newest smart keys can be costly if you have to buy them as well as programme them. Based on your car's model and make you can expect to shell out between $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. With the application on your smartphone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car, and you can switch your lights on and off, as well as activate your parking brake, and do other things based on the proximity of your car. These are perfect for those who reside in urban areas or if you have kids and worry about them leaving the car unattended.
Some of these systems are costly, but they're also more secure than a regular car key because they can monitor your location and stop you from accidentally locking the car or turning on the engine when you're far away. Some of these systems can help you locate your vehicle in a garage, while others can notify you when you close or open the doors.
These types of systems can also be beneficial for businesses, like property managers that oversee office space or vacation rentals. These systems are able to monitor access rights for guests, cleaning staff, and maintenance workers, while ensuring that only those who have the proper permissions can go into and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people may think that they have to go to the dealer if their keys disappear. They'll have to show proof of ownership, and occasionally the key has to be ordered from the manufacturer which can take a few days. But a dealer will usually get the job done for you faster than a locksmith, and they might have lower prices, too.
It is likely that the key fob will require programming to your vehicle. This can be done either through the dealer or looking up the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, and turning off lights and other electronic components on and off. It could even require pressing a set of buttons which acts as the code. This is usually handled by the drivers, but it's best to let a technician take care of it.
The year the model, make and year of the car will have an impact on the price, too. Modern cars come with sophisticated transponder chips which will need to be paired with the vehicle by a locksmith or dealer, and the process can be more costly.
A dealer who sells particular brand of car is more likely to know how to replace the keys for that vehicle. automotive key replacement of the biggest manufacturers, such as 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.
Some brands are harder to work with. Some of the more established brands that have shut down or are old enough that they no longer produce keys are listed. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. Typically, these kinds of keys need to be reprogrammed and can be more complicated and costly 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. You can avoid paying the higher rates for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys, you can be sure that the cloned key will work.