Car Keys Replacement Cost
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys to your car was not a major issue. You could take your spare key to a key cutting shop for a new one that cost $10 or less.
Nevertheless, the process has become more complicated and costly. Learn more about the various types of car keys and how they will cost you to replace them.
Basic Key Fob
Key fobs are an remote control as well as key in one. It's a tiny plastic device that contains buttons or buttons that you press to unlock the doors and trunk, open the hatchback, lower the windows, and perhaps start the car. The key fob has an electronic chip built in that communicates with your car's onboard systems to control functions like the starter.
A basic key fob is typically constructed of plastic that uses a regular lock-and-key mechanism, like the type you'd find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob will cost between $50-$100, but you'll be charged more if you need to replace one that's been lost or damaged.
You'll probably need to visit the dealer if the car is more than five years old. Most newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or key shop typically can do this for less, however.
The cost of your fob could also depend on the type you own. Older cars have mechanical key fobs, while the most recent models typically have transponder keys or smart keys. Both of these types can have a wide range of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the car in a controlled manner to changing codes on a regular basis to stop thieves from stealing and using your car's key fob data.
vehicle key replacement that are available online could be less expensive than the ones you can purchase from a dealer, but they might not work on your car. Some manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru, include security chips in their key fobs that block them from working with third-party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket key fob, if it's brought in, but it's very likely that it won't work.
You can get information on programming your key fob by searching the website of the manufacturer or the owner's manual. It's worth trying to do this yourself before heading to the dealership or hiring a locksmith to do it. You can also check your vehicle's warranty, roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance policy to see if they will cover the cost of a replacement fob for your key.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are found in the majority of modern cars. They have an embedded chip in the head which transmits a message to the vehicle after it is placed in the ignition cylinder. The signal is used to unlock the car and begin the engine. This type of key is more secure than standard flat metal keys since a transponder chip prevents the car from starting if it fails to receive a signal from the correct key. This technology was developed to prevent theft of cars since it is nearly impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the right equipment.
Many vehicles are also equipped with immobilizers which prevent them from starting when they are operated by keys that do not have a transponder. Car thieves have come up with methods of stealing cars with transponder key systems.
A locksmith can usually help you replace a lost or damaged transponder key. They'll need details about your car, such as the VIN number and model. Then they will either cut a new key or program the one they have to your car's system. This process is a bit more expensive than simply getting a car dealership to cut and program a new key.
Some stores for automotive like AutoZone or Walmart can cut and duplicate transponder keys but they aren't capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. It is best to call a reputable and experienced locksmith firm to ensure that a professional is competent to complete the task.
It was quite simple to make a duplicate key for a car and then hot-wire a vehicle before the advent of this latest technology. This technique was used to steal cars and it permitted criminals to steal stolen vehicles. The advent of the transponder key has greatly reduced this activity but it's not completely eliminated.
You can call a professional to do this for you in the event that you require an extra transponder key or if you've lost one. The cost will be more than a traditional key but it's a safer and better method to ensure that your vehicle can't be started by anyone else.
Keyless Entry System
As increasing numbers of people want security, convenience, and safety, car key fobs have become a common feature. These transmitters can open doors, trigger the panic alarm, open the trunk, and even start the engine without having a physical key. They are easily tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. It's costly to replace them, and you may have to program your new fob to pair it with your vehicle.
A standard key fob can cost ten or so dollars to get cut at a hardware store, but the latest smart keys aren't cheap if you want to purchase them and then have them programmed. Based on your car's model and make you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $500 for a replacement fob, in addition to the cost of cutting it and programming it to your vehicle.
Some sophisticated car key systems let you use your smartphone as keys. You can lock or unlock your vehicle remotely using the app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn on and off your lights, turn on your parking break, as well as perform other tasks depending on how close you are to the car. They are perfect for people who reside in urban areas, or even parents who are concerned about your children leaving the car unsupervised.
Some of these systems could be costly, but they are more secure than the standard car key. They keep track of your location to prevent you from locking or starting the car if you are too far from. They can also help you find your car in a parking garage, and some can warn you when the doors are shut or opened.
These systems are also useful for businesses such as property managers who oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems can allow them to monitor the access rights of guests as well as cleaning staff and maintenance workers, while making sure that only those with the right permissions can get into and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people feel they must go to the dealer when keys are missing. The dealer will ask for proof of ownership and request keys from the manufacturer. This can take several days. However, a dealer can generally complete the task for you faster than locksmiths, and might have lower prices, as well.
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 can even involve pressing a combination of buttons which acts as a code. This can often be done by the drivers, however it's best to let an expert take care of it.
The cost is also affected by the year, model and year of vehicle. Modern cars come with advanced transponder chips that need to be paired with the car by a locksmith or a dealer, and the process can be more costly.
A dealer that sells a certain brand of car will be more likely to know how to replace keys for that model. Some of the bigger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have a variety of models and are well-versed in the keys.
Certain brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the more established brands that have closed or are so old that they no longer produce 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 is more expensive and time-consuming than replacing the key.
It is recommended that you have your spare key cloned by a professional rather than buying another one from a dealer. You will avoid paying higher rates for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys you can be sure that the cloned one will function.