Car Keys Replacement Cost
In the past, losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could take your spare keys to key cutters and purchase an additional one for $10 or less.
Nevertheless, the process has become more complex and expensive. Learn more about the various kinds of keys for cars and what they can cost you to replace them.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob is an electronic remote control and a key in one. It's a small, plastic device that houses buttons or buttons that you can push to unlock the doors and open the trunk or hatchback, lower the windows, and perhaps start the car. The key fob has a built-in electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard system to manage functions such as the starter.
Basic key fobs are usually made of standard plastic and are fitted with a standard lock and key mechanism. They are identical to those found on old Pontiacs or Saturns. A basic key fob can cost anywhere from $50 to $100, but the true price is when you need to replace a lost or damaged one.
You'll likely need to visit a dealer if the car is newer than five years. A lot of newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or key shop will typically be in a position to provide this service for less.
The cost of your fob can depend on the type you own. Older cars use mechanical keys, whereas modern models usually come with transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of key fobs are able to be fitted with a range of features. They can include keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically or rolling codes that change regularly to prevent thieves from intercepting the data on the key fob.
You might be able to purchase an aftermarket key fob online for less than what you'd pay at a dealership, but these may not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that block their key fobs from working with third party devices. Some dealerships can program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in however there's a high chance it won't continue to 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. It's worth trying to do this yourself prior to going to the dealership or hiring an expert locksmith to do it. You can also look into the warranty on your vehicle and the auto-insurance policy to see whether they cover the cost of a brand new key fob.
Transponder Key
The majority of newer cars have keys that are known as a transponder key. These keys contain an embedded chip inside the key's head that transmits a signal to the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. The 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 stops the car from starting without the proper signal. This technology was developed to prevent theft of cars since it is nearly impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the appropriate equipment.
In addition, many cars also come with immobilizer systems that stop them from starting if keys that are not transponder compatible are used. However, thieves have also devised methods to break into and steal cars that are equipped with transponder keys.
A locksmith can usually help you replace the damaged or lost transponder key. They will need to have the information about your specific vehicle, including the VIN number, model and year. They can then either program the key you have to the car's system, or cut an entirely new one. This is a little more expensive than cutting a key from a dealership and program a replacement key.
Some auto stores such as AutoZone or Walmart can cut and copy transponder keys but they aren't capable of reprogramming chips in the key. If you want to be sure that a professional can handle the task, you should contact an experienced and trusted locksmith service.
Before the invention of technology like this it was fairly easy to make a duplicate car key and then hot wire a vehicle. This method of stealing cars was very common and allowed criminals to enter and drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced the risk of this crime, but not entirely eliminated it completely.
If you require a new transponder key, or have lost yours, the best solution is to call a professional and have them do it for you. It's more expensive than a standard one, but it's a much safer and more reliable option to ensure that someone else cannot start your car.
Keyless Entry System
Car key fobs are becoming a standard feature in vehicles, as more and more people seek convenience, security and security. These devices can open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, or start the engine without having the physical key. They can be tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. This means they're costly to replace, and you may require fob programming in order to pair your new key with your vehicle.
A basic key fob will cost about ten dollars to get cut at the hardware store, however the most recent smart keys aren't cheap if you're looking to purchase them and then have them programmed. Depending on your vehicle make and model, you can expect to pay between $200 to $500 to replace a fob and the cost of cutting it and programming it to your vehicle.
There are other more advanced car keys systems that let you use your smartphone as a key. With the application on your phone, you can remote lock or unlock your car, and you can switch on and off, activate your parking brake, and perform other things depending on your proximity to the car. These apps are ideal for those who live in urban areas, or even if you're a parent that's concerned about your children leaving the car unattended.
Some of these systems can be expensive, but they are more secure than the standard car key. Info keep track of your location to prevent you from accidentally locking or starting the car if you're far away. They also can help you locate your car inside a parking garage and can even warn you if the doors are opened or closed.
These systems are also beneficial for businesses like property managers who manage office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems can allow them to monitor access rights for guests, cleaning staff, and maintenance staff, as well as ensuring that only those who have the right permissions can get in and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people feel they must visit a dealer when their keys are missing. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership and may request the key from the manufacturer. This could take several days. However, a dealer can generally complete the task for you quicker than locksmiths, and may offer lower prices too.
The key fob may still need to be programmed for your car. This can be done through the dealer or reading the owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors, and turning off lights and other electronic components on and off. It can even involve pressing a combination of buttons that functions as an electronic code. Often, this can be performed by the driver, but it is better to have a technician handle it.
The cost is also affected by the year, make and model of vehicle. The cost of the service could also be affected by the year, make and model of the vehicle.
A dealer who sells a specific model of car is more likely to have the knowledge to change keys for that model. Some of the bigger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have several models and are well-versed in keys.
Certain brands are 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. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are among the companies that are older and have stopped producing keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these keys require reprogramming, which can be more difficult and expensive than replacing the key itself.
It is best to get your spare key copied by a professional rather than buying an entirely new one from the dealer. You will not have to pay the higher prices for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys you can be sure that the duplicate will work.