Car Keys Replacement Cost
A few years ago, losing your car keys wasn't a big deal. auto key replacement could take your spare key to a key cutter for a new one that cost $10 or less.
Nevertheless the process has gotten more complicated and costly. Learn more about the different types of keys for cars and what they will cost you to replace.
Basic Key Fob
Key fobs are a remote control and an actual key in one. It's a tiny plastic device that contains a button or buttons that you push to unlock the doors and trunk, open the hatchback, open the windows, and possibly start the car. The key fob has an electronic chip in it that communicates with the car's onboard systems to control functions like the starter.
Key fobs for basic use are typically made from standard plastic, and are fitted with a standard lock and key mechanism. These are the same as those found on old Pontiacs or Saturns. A basic key fob can cost anywhere between $50 and $100, but you'll pay more if you require a replacement for one that's lost or damaged.
If your car was manufactured within the last five years, the chances are that you'll need to visit the dealership to get a replacement fob since many modern cars require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith shop or key shop will typically be capable of doing this at a lower cost.
The type of fob you have can also impact the cost. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, whereas modern models usually come with transponder keys or smart keys. Key fobs of both types can come with a variety of features. They may include keyless entry which locks and unlocks your car automatically, or rolling codes that are changed regularly to prevent thieves from intercepting the data on your key fob.
Key fobs that are available online could be cheaper than those you can buy at the dealer, but they might not be compatible with your car. Certain manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from interfacing with third-party devices. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob when it's purchased, but it's likely that it won't work.
You can get information on programming your key fob by searching the manufacturer's site or your owner's guide. Try to do this yourself first before paying for a locksmith or going to the dealer. You can also check your car's warranty and auto insurance policy to see whether they cover the cost of a brand new key fob.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are found in the majority of modern cars. key replacement car contain an embedded chip in the key's head which transmits a signal the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and for starting the engine. This key is more secure than the traditional flat metal key because the transponder chip stops a car from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was created to stop car theft since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these keys without the proper equipment.
In addition, many cars also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting when keys that are not transponder compatible are used. However, thieves have also devised methods to gain access and steal cars with transponder keys.
A locksmith can help to replace your transponder keys if it's damaged or lost. They'll need information about your vehicle, such as the VIN number and model. They will then cut a new key or program the existing one to your car's system. This is a little more expensive than cutting a key from a dealership and program a new key.
Some automotive stores, like 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. It is best to call an experienced and reliable locksmith company if you want to ensure that a professional will be competent to complete the task.
It was fairly easy to make duplicate keys for a car and hot-wire a car prior to the advent of this modern technology. This method of stealing cars was widespread and allowed criminals to gain entry and drive away with stolen vehicles. The advent of transponder keys has greatly reduced the likelihood of this happening however, it's not completely eliminated.
You can get an expert to handle this for you if you require an alternative transponder key or if you lost yours. The cost will be higher than a standard key, but it is a much safer and more secure method to ensure that your car is not able to be started by anyone else.
Keyless Entry System
Car key fobs are becoming an everyday feature in cars, as more and people are seeking convenience, safety, and security. They can open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, or start the engine without the physical key. But they can also be subject to quite a beating from being used in a variety of ways, and are more likely to be lost or stolen than the metal keys. They're also expensive to replace, and you may require fob programming to connect your new key with your vehicle.
The cost of cutting a standard key fob at an hardware store is around ten dollars. However, the newest smart keys can be costly if you must purchase them, as well as program them. You should expect to pay between $200 and $500 on a replacement key fob. This includes the cost to have it cut and programmed to fit in your car.
Some sophisticated car key systems let you use your smartphone as a key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle remotely using the app on your smartphone. You can also turn on and off your lights, turn on your parking break, and do other tasks based on the distance you're to your car. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas or even parents who are worried about your children leaving the car unattended.
Certain of these systems can be expensive however, they're more secure than a standard car key since they locate you and prevent you from locking the car or turning the engine on in case you're not close enough. They can also help you locate your car inside parking garages and can even warn you if the doors have been open or closed.
These systems are also useful for businesses like property managers who manage office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to monitor the access rights for guests, cleaning staff, and maintenance personnel, while making sure that only those with the proper permissions can go into and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people feel they must go to the dealer when keys are missing. They will need to show proof of ownership, and occasionally the key must be ordered from the manufacturer which can take a few days. A dealer will usually complete the job more quickly than a locksmith and might even charge less.
It is likely that the key fob will still need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done either at the dealer or by consulting your owner's guide. It involves opening and shutting doors, and switching off or on lights and other electronic devices. It could even require pressing a number of buttons that function as a code. Most of the time, this is done by the driver, but it is better to have a technician do it.
The year the car was manufactured, its model and make of the car will have an impact on the cost as well. Newer cars have sophisticated transponder chips which will require pairing with the car by a locksmith or a dealer and the process could be more costly.
A dealer who sells specific brand of car is more likely be able to replace the keys for that particular vehicle. Some of the biggest manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a wide variety of models and are more familiar with the keys that are used for those models.
Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have been shut down or that are old enough that they no longer manufacture keys are listed. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. Typically, these kinds of keys need to be reprogrammed which is more difficult and more expensive than replacing the key itself.
In general, if you have a spare key it is usually best to duplicate it at a specialist instead of getting a replacement from the dealer. You can avoid paying the higher prices for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys, you can rest easy knowing that the cloned key will function.