Car Keys Replacement Cost
It wasn't long ago that misplacing keys to your car was not a problem. You could bring your spare key to a key cutting shop for an alternative that cost less than $10.
Nowadays, however, the process can be more complicated and costly. Find out about the various kinds and costs of keys for cars.
Basic Key Fob
Key fobs are an remote as well as a key in one. It's tiny, plastic device with a button you can press to unlock doors or hatchbacks, open the trunk, roll down windows and maybe even start the car. The key fob is equipped with an electronic chip embedded that communicates with your car's onboard systems to control functions such as the starter.
Basic key fobs are constructed from plastic that is standard, and use a regular lock and key mechanism. These are identical to those found on old Pontiacs as well as Saturns. A basic key fob will cost anywhere between $50-$100, but you'll be charged more if you need to replace one that's damaged or lost.
You'll likely need to visit the dealer if your vehicle is newer than five years. Many newer cars require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or key shop can usually do this for less, though.
The cost of your fob can depend on the type you own. Older cars have mechanical key fobs, while modern models usually come with transponder keys or smart keys. Key fobs of both kinds can come with a variety of functions. They may include keyless entry, which locks and unlocks your car automatically or rolling codes that change regularly to prevent thieves from stealing the information on your key fob.
Key fobs purchased online may be less expensive than the ones you can buy at the dealer, but they might not be compatible with your car. Some manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips that prevent their key fobs from working with third party devices. Some dealerships will program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in however there's a high chance that it won't function.
Go through your owner's manual or go to the manufacturer's site to find information on programming your specific model's key fob. It's a good idea to try this yourself before going to the dealership or paying an expert locksmith to do it. You can also check the warranty on your vehicle and the auto-insurance policy to see whether they will cover the cost of a brand new key fob.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are utilized in the majority of modern cars. They have a chip embedded in the head of the key that transmits a signal to the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and begin the engine. This key type is more secure than traditional flat metal keys due to transponder chips stop the car from starting if it does not receive an appropriate signal from the key. This technology was created to prevent theft of cars because it is nearly impossible to duplicate these keys without the proper equipment.
Many cars are also equipped with immobilizers which prevent the vehicle from starting when they are operated with a key that is not transponder. Car thieves have come up with methods to steal vehicles with transponder key systems.
A locksmith can usually help you replace the damaged or lost transponder key. They will require details of your vehicle like the VIN number and model. They can then either program your existing key to the car's system or cut an entirely new one. This is a more costly procedure than having a dealer 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 in the key. If you want to ensure that a professional is able to complete the task, you should call a reputable and experienced locksmith company.
It was quite simple to make a duplicate key for a car and hot-wire a vehicle before the advent of this latest technology. This method of stealing vehicles was frequent and allowed criminals to get into and drive away with stolen vehicles. The introduction of transponder keys has greatly reduced this activity however, it's not completely eliminated.
If you need a replacement transponder key or you have lost yours, the best option is to contact an expert and let them create it for you. automotive key replacement will be higher than a standard key, however it's a safer and better method to ensure that your vehicle is not able to be started by anyone else.
Keyless Entry System
As increasing numbers of people want convenience, safety and security key fobs for cars are now a standard feature. These tiny devices can unlock doors, set off the alarm that sounds a panic and open the trunk and even start your engine without needing to carry a physical key in your hand. They can be tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. It's costly to replace them, and you may require programming your new fob to connect it with your vehicle.
The cost of cutting a basic fob for a key at a hardware shop is around ten dollars. However, the most recent smart keys can be expensive when you need to purchase them, as well as program them. Based on the make and model you could expect to pay between $200 to $500 for a replacement fob, plus the cost of having it cut and programmed to your car.
Some sophisticated car key systems allow you to make use of your smartphone as an actual key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle via the app on your smartphone. You can also turn on and off your lights, turn on your parking break, and perform other tasks based on the distance you're to your car. They are perfect for people who live in urban areas, or even if you're a parent that's concerned about your children leaving the car unsupervised.
Some of these systems can be expensive, but are more secure than a standard car key. They track your location to prevent you from accidentally locking or starting the car when you are too far from. They also can help you locate your car inside a parking garage and can even warn you when the doors are open or closed.
These kinds of systems can also be useful for companies, such as property managers who oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems let them monitor access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those with permissions are allowed to enter and exit the premises.
Dealership
Some people believe they need to visit a dealer when keys are missing. They'll need to provide proof of ownership, and occasionally the key has to be ordered from the manufacturer which can take a few days. But a dealer can also usually get the job done for you much faster than locksmiths, and might have lower prices, too.
It is likely that the key fob will 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 off lights and other electronics on and off. It could even involve pressing a series of buttons that functions as the code. It is usually done by the driver, however, it is best to have a technician do it.
The year the car was manufactured, its model and make of the vehicle will affect the price as well. Newer cars have high-tech transponder chips that will need to be paired with the car by a locksmith or dealer and the process may be more expensive.
A dealer who sells a specific brand of car will be more likely to be able to change keys for that model. Some of the bigger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have several models and are familiar with the keys.
Other brands are more 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 being produced. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn, and Eagle. These keys are usually reprogrammed. This is more expensive and difficult than replacing the key.
It is recommended to have your spare key cloned by a professional rather than purchasing another one from a dealer. This way, you avoid paying the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. If you lose your keys you can be assured that the cloned one will work.