Car Keys Replacement Cost
It wasn't long ago that misplacing car keys was not a big issue. You could bring your spare key to a key cutter for a new one that cost less than $10.
Today, however the process is more complicated and expensive. Read on to learn about the various types of keys for cars and how they'll cost you to replace them.
Basic Key Fob
Key fobs are an remote as well as a key in one. It's a small plastic device that has a button 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 an electronic chip in it that communicates with your car's onboard systems to regulate functions such as the starter.
Key fobs for basic use are typically constructed from plastic that is standard, and use a regular lock and key mechanism. They're identical to those found on old Pontiacs or Saturns. A basic key fob costs between $50-$100, but you'll pay more if require a replacement for one that's been damaged or lost.
You'll likely need to visit a dealer if your vehicle is older than five years old. Most newer vehicles require special equipment to code and programme new keys. Locksmiths or key shops can usually perform this task for less, however.
The kind of fob you own can affect the price. Older cars have mechanical key fobs, while modern models usually come with transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of keys can have a wide range of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the vehicle in a controlled manner to rolling codes that change regularly to prevent thieves from taking and stealing your car's key fob data.
You may be able to buy an aftermarket key fob for less than the price you'd pay at the dealership however they might not be compatible with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like 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 but there's a good possibility that it won't function.
Read the owner's manual for your model or go to the manufacturer's site for more information on programming your specific model's key fob. It is recommended to try this yourself prior to paying an expert locksmith or visiting the dealer. You can also look at the warranty of your vehicle, the roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance coverage to see if these will cover the cost of a replacement key fob.
Transponder Key
The majority of newer cars have a type of key called transponder keys. The keys have an embedded chip in the head of the key which transmits a signal the vehicle when it is inserted into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and start the engine. This key is more secure than a traditional flat metal key because the transponder chip blocks cars from starting without the correct signal. This technology was designed to reduce car theft because it is virtually impossible to duplicate keys without the appropriate equipment.
Additionally, car key remote replacement near me have immobilizer systems that prevent them from starting when a non-transponder key is used. However, car criminals have also come up with ways to break into and steal vehicles that have transponder keys.
A locksmith is usually able to help you replace a lost or damaged transponder key. They'll need information about your vehicle, such as the VIN number and model. Then they will cut a new one or program the current one to your car's system. This is a costlier 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 in a position to reprogram the chip inside the key. It is best to call an experienced and reputable locksmith company if you want to be sure that a professional will be capable of handling the job.
Before the advent of technology like this it was fairly easy to make duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a car. This method of stealing cars was very widespread and allowed criminals to enter and drive off with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced the risk of this crime, but they haven't completely eliminated it.
You can get a professional to do this for you in the event that you require an alternative transponder key or if you've lost one. The cost will be higher than a traditional key however it's a safer and more secure method to ensure that your vehicle is not able to be started by anyone else.
Keyless Entry System
As increasing numbers of people want security, convenience, and safety key fobs for cars have become a standard feature. These tiny transmitters can open doors, set off the alarm for panic or open the trunk and even start your engine without needing to have a physical key in your hand. However, they also endure quite a beating from being tossed around and they are more likely to get lost or stolen than traditional keys. This means they're costly to replace, and you might require fob programming to connect your new key with your vehicle.
The cost of cutting a basic key fob at an hardware store is around ten dollars. However, the most recent smart keys can be expensive if you must purchase them, as well as program them. Based on your car's model and make you can expect to shell out between $200-$500 for a replacement fob, plus the cost of having it cut and programmed to your vehicle.
Some advanced car key systems let you make use of your smartphone as an actual key. With the application on your phone, you can remote lock or unlock your car, and you can switch your lights on and off, turn off your parking brake, and perform 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 are worried about children leaving the car unattended.
Some of these systems can be expensive however, they're more secure than a standard car key as they monitor your location and stop you from locking the car or turning on the engine in case you're not close enough. Certain systems will help you locate your car in a garage and others can alert you if you shut or open the doors.
These types of systems can also be useful for businesses, such as property managers who oversee vacation rentals or office spaces. These systems let them check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. car key remote replacement near me can also make sure that only those who have permissions are allowed in and out.
Dealership
Some people feel they must go to the dealer if their keys are missing. The dealer will ask for proof of ownership and may request the key from the manufacturer. This could take several days. A dealer will usually complete the job more quickly than a locksmith and might even cost less.
The key fob could require to be programmed for your vehicle. This can be done either at the dealer or by looking up the owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors and turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off. It could even involve pressing a series of buttons that functions as an electronic code. This is often handled by the drivers, but it's always better to let an expert handle it.
The cost can also be affected by the year, make and model of vehicle. Modern cars come with high-tech transponder chips that will need to be paired with the car by a locksmith or dealer and the process could be more expensive.
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, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have a variety of models and are well-versed in the keys.
Other brands are more difficult to work with. This includes some of the older firms that have been shut down or are old enough to have keys that are no longer in production. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are some of the older companies that do not produce keys anymore. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these kinds of keys need to be reprogrammed, which can be more complicated and costly than replacing the key itself.
It is recommended to get your spare key copied by a professional rather than getting a new one from a dealer. This way, you avoid paying the more expensive after-hours or weekend rates. Then, if you do lose your keys, you can rest assured that the copied key will work.