Car Keys Replacement Cost
Not long ago, misplacing your keys to your car wasn't an issue. You could bring your spare to key cutters and purchase a new one for $10 or less.
However, the process has become more complicated and costly. Learn more about the various kinds of car keys and how they'll cost you to replace.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob is an remote control as well as an actual key in one. It's a small plastic device that contains buttons or buttons that you press to unlock the doors and trunk, open the hatchback, roll down the windows and maybe even start the car. The key fob comes with an electronic chip built in that communicates with the car's onboard systems to regulate functions like the starter.
A basic key fob is typically made of plastic and utilizes a standard lock-and-key mechanism, like the one you'd find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost anywhere between $50-$100, but you'll pay more if need to replace one that's been lost or damaged.
You'll probably need to visit the dealer if the car is older than five years old. Most newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or a key shop can usually perform this task for less, however.
The cost of the fob you purchase can be affected by the type you own. Older cars have mechanical key fobs while the latest models use transponder keys. Both types of key fobs can come with a variety of functions. They could include keyless entry which locks and unlocks your car automatically, or rolling codes that change frequently to keep thieves from stealing the information on the key fob.
Key fobs that are available online could be less expensive than the ones you can buy at the dealer, but they might not work on your car. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that block their key fobs from interfacing with third-party devices. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob if it's brought in, but it's likely that it won't work.
Read the owner's manual for your model or go to the manufacturer's site for information about programming your particular model's key fob. Try to do this yourself prior to paying an expert locksmith or visiting the dealer. You could also check the warranty of your vehicle, the roadside assistance and auto-insurance coverage to determine if they cover the costs of a replacement fob for your key.
Transponder Key
Most newer cars use keys that are known as a transponder key. These keys have a chip embedded into the head that sends a message to the vehicle after it is put into the ignition cylinder. car key replacements 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 cars from starting without the correct signal. This technology was developed to prevent theft of cars since it is almost impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the appropriate equipment.
Many cars are also fitted with immobilizers that prevent them from starting when they are operated by keys that do not have a transponder. However, car thieves have also devised methods to gain access and steal cars with transponder keys.
A locksmith can assist you to replace your transponder keys if it's damaged or lost. They will need the information about your vehicle including the VIN number and model. They will then either program your existing key to the car's computer system or cut a new one. This process is a bit more expensive than simply getting a car dealership to cut and program a replacement key.
Some auto stores such as AutoZone or Walmart can cut and copy transponder keys but may not be capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. It is recommended to contact a reputable and experienced locksmith service to ensure that a professional is competent to complete the task.
It was fairly easy to make duplicate keys for a car and wire a vehicle prior to the advent of this latest technology. This was a method used to steal cars and it permitted criminals to steal stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have greatly reduced the risk of this crime, but not entirely eliminated it.
You can get an expert to handle this for you if you need an extra transponder key or if you've lost yours. The cost will be more than a standard key, but it is a much safer and better way to ensure that your vehicle cannot be started by someone else.
Keyless Entry System
Car key fobs are becoming a standard feature of vehicles, as more and more people seek convenience, safety and security. They are able to open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, or start the engine without the physical key. They can be tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. They're also expensive to replace, and you may require fob programming in order to pair your new one with your vehicle.
A basic key fob will cost around ten dollars to cut at an hardware store, but the most recent smart keys aren't cheap when you need to buy the keys and have them programmed. Based on your car's model and make, you can expect to shell out between $200 to $500 to replace a fob in addition to the cost of having it cut and programmed to your vehicle.
There are other more advanced car keys systems that allow you to use your smartphone as an actual key. By using the app on your smartphone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car, and you can turn your lights on and off, as well as activate your parking brake, and do other things depending on your proximity to the car. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas or even if you're a parent that's worried about your children leaving the car unsupervised.
Some of these systems could be expensive, but they are more secure than the standard car key. They monitor your location to stop you from locking or opening the car if you're far away. They also can help you locate your car in garages that have parking spaces and even alert you when the doors are opened or closed.
These systems are also beneficial for businesses such as property managers who oversee offices or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. They can also make sure that only those with permissions are allowed in and out.
Dealership
Some people may feel that they must visit a dealership if their keys are lost. The dealer will request proof of ownership and request keys from the manufacturer. This can take several days. However, a dealer can typically complete the task for you much faster than a locksmith, and they might have lower prices, too.
It is likely that the key fob will need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done either at the dealership or by consulting your owner's guide. It involves closing and opening doors and turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off. It can even involve pressing a combination of buttons that acts like a code. This can often be done by the drivers, but it is always best to let an expert handle it.
The year the car was manufactured, its model and make of the car will have an impact on the price as well. Modern cars come with sophisticated transponder chips which will require pairing with the car by a locksmith or dealer and the process may be more costly.
A dealer who sells a particular model of car is more likely to be able to replace keys for that model. Some of the larger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have a variety of models and are familiar with the keys.
Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have shut down or are so old that they no longer make keys are listed. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are some of the older companies that have stopped producing keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. The keys are typically changed. This can be more expensive and complicated than replacing the key.
It is recommended to get your spare key copied by a professional rather than buying an entirely new one from a dealer. This way, you avoid having to pay for the more expensive after-hours or weekend rates. If you do lose your keys you can rest assured that the key cloned will work.