Car Keys Replacement Cost
Not long ago, misplacing your keys to your car wasn't a big deal. You could bring your spare key to a key cutting shop for the replacement key for $10 or less.
Today, however, the process is more complicated and expensive. Find out more about the various kinds of car keys and how they will cost you to replace them.
Basic Key Fob
Key fobs are an electronic remote and a key in one. It's a small, plastic piece equipped with a button which you can press to unlock doors, open the hatchback or trunk, roll down windows and maybe even start the vehicle. The key fob has a built-in electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard system to manage functions such as the starter.
A basic key fob is typically made of standard plastic and employs a lock-and key mechanism, such as the type you'd find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost anywhere between $50 and $100, but you'll pay more if you need to replace one that's lost or damaged.
If your car was built in the last five years, chances are that you'll need to visit the dealer to get a replacement fob as many newer vehicles require specialized equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or a key shop is usually able to do this for less.
The cost of the fob you purchase can depend on the type you have. Older vehicles use mechanical key fobs, whereas modern models usually come with transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of key fobs can be equipped with a variety of functions. They may include keyless entry, which locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically or rolling codes that change frequently to stop thieves from intercepting the data on the key fob.
It's possible to buy an aftermarket key fob online for less than what you'd pay at the dealership however, they may not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru include security chips in their key fobs that block them 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 visit the manufacturer's website for more information on programming your specific model's key fob. It's worth trying to do this yourself before going to the dealership or hiring an expert locksmith. You can also check your vehicle's warranty and auto-insurance policy to see whether they will cover the cost of a brand new key fob.
Transponder Key
The majority of newer cars have keys of a different type, known as a transponder key. They have an embedded chip in the head that sends an electronic message to the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and starting the engine. This key is more secure than a traditional flat metal keys because the transponder chip prevents cars from starting without the proper signal. This technology was designed to reduce car theft as it is nearly impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the proper equipment.
Many vehicles are also equipped with immobilizers that prevent them from starting if they are used with keys that do not have a transponder. However, thieves have also developed ways to gain access and steal vehicles that have transponder keys.
A locksmith is usually able to assist you in replacing the damaged or lost transponder key. key replacement car 'll need details of your vehicle including the VIN number and model. Then they will cut a new one or program the current one to the car's system. This is a costlier procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys.
Some auto stores, such as AutoZone and Walmart, are also capable of cutting and re-copying a transponder key, but they may not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. It is best to call an experienced and reliable locksmith company if you want to be sure that a professional is capable of handling the job.
Before the invention of technology like this it was fairly easy to make duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a vehicle. This technique was used to steal cars, and it allowed criminals to drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have drastically reduced the risk of this crime, but not entirely eliminated it completely.
If you need a replacement transponder keys or you've lost yours, the best solution is to call an expert and have them make it for you. It's more expensive than a standard key, however it's a safer and better alternative to ensure that someone else will not be able to start your car.
Keyless Entry System
As increasing numbers of people want security, convenience, and safety, car key fobs are now a standard feature. They can open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, or even start the engine without having the physical key. They can also take quite a beating from being used in a variety of ways, and they're more likely to get lost or stolen than traditional keys. It's costly to replace keys, and you might require programming your new fob to pair it with your vehicle.
A basic key fob will cost ten or so dollars to cut at a hardware store, but the latest smart keys aren't cheap if you need to buy them and then have them programmed. Based on your car's model and make you could expect to shell out between $200 and $500 for a replacement fob, in addition to the cost of cutting it and programming it to your car.
Some advanced car key systems let you make use of your smartphone as an actual key. With the application on your phone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car, and you can also switch on and off, as well as activate your parking brake, and perform other things depending on the proximity of your car. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas, or if you're a parent that's worried about your children leaving the car unattended.
Some of these systems are costly, but they're also more secure than a standard car key because they can locate you and prevent you from locking the car or turning on the engine if you're too far away. They also can help you locate your car inside parking garages, and some can warn you if the doors are shut or opened.
These systems can also be useful for businesses such as property managers who oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems permit them to control access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those with permissions are allowed to enter and exit the premises.
Dealership
Some people believe that they should go to the dealer if their keys are missing. The dealer will request proof of ownership and may request the key from the manufacturer. This can take several days. A dealer is usually able to complete the job faster than a locksmith and may even charge less.
It is likely that the key fob will still need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership, or by reading your owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, and turning on and off lights and other electronic devices. It can even require pressing a set of buttons that functions as the code. Most of the time, this is done by the driver, but it is always better to have a technician handle it.
The year the model, make and year of the car will impact the price as well. The cost of the service could be affected by the year, model and model of the vehicle.
A dealer that sells a specific brand of car is more likely know how to replace keys for that vehicle. Some of the biggest manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a huge variety of models and are more familiar with the keys that are used for the specific models.
Certain brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the more established brands that have closed or are old enough that they no longer produce keys are included. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are among the more established companies that do not produce keys anymore. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. These keys are usually reprogrammed. This is more expensive and complicated than replacing the key.
It is best to have your spare key cloned by a professional rather than buying a new one from the dealer. You can avoid paying the more expensive rates for after-hours or weekend services. Then, if you lose your keys, you can rest assured that the cloned key will work.
