Car Keys Replacement Cost
In the past, losing your car keys was not an issue. You could take your spare key to a key cutting shop for a new one that cost less than $10.
Today, however the process is more complex and costly. Find out more about the various kinds of keys for cars and how they can cost you to replace them.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob is an electronic remote control and key in one. It's a small, plastic device with a button you can press to unlock doors or hatchbacks, open the trunk, lower windows, and possibly even start your car. The key fob comes with an electronic chip built in that communicates with the 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 are identical to those that were used on the old Pontiacs and Saturns. A basic key fob will cost between $50 and $100, but you'll be charged more if you need to replace one that's lost or damaged.
You'll probably need to visit the dealer if your car is older than five years old. A lot of newer vehicles require special equipment to code and programme new keys. A locksmith or a key shop typically can do this for less however.
The kind of fob you own can affect the price. Older cars have mechanical keys, whereas the most recent models typically have transponder keys or smart keys. Key fobs of both types can come with a variety of features. They can include keyless entry which locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically or rolling codes that are changed frequently to stop thieves from stealing the information on the key fob.
Key fobs that are available online could be less expensive than ones you can get from the dealer, but they may not be compatible with your car. Certain manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips that prevent their key fobs from interfacing with third party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in, but there's a good chance it won't continue to function.
You can find information about programming your key fob by searching the website of the manufacturer or the owner's guide. It's worth trying this yourself before going to the dealership or hiring an expert locksmith to do it. You can also look at the warranty of your vehicle, the roadside assistance and auto-insurance coverage to determine 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. These keys have an embedded chip in the head that transmits an electronic message to the vehicle when it is inserted in the ignition cylinder. The signal is used to unlock the car and start the engine. This type of key is more secure than standard flat metal keys due to transponder chips prevent the car from starting if it fails to receive the right signal from the key. This technology was developed to stop car theft since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these keys without the proper equipment.
Many vehicles are also equipped with immobilizers that stop the vehicle from starting if they are used with keys that are not transponder. However, car criminals have also come up with methods to steal and break into vehicles that have transponder keys.
A locksmith will usually be able to assist you in replacing the damaged or lost transponder key. They'll need information about your vehicle including the VIN number and model. They can then either program your existing key to the car's system, or cut a new one. This is a more expensive procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys.
Some stores for automotive, such as AutoZone and Walmart can also be capable of cutting and re-copying the transponder keys, however they may not be capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. If you want to ensure that a professional will be able to handle the job, call a reputable and experienced locksmith business.
Before the invention of this technology it was quite easy to make duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a car. This method was used to steal cars and permitted criminals to steal stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced the risk of this crime, but it isn't entirely eliminated it completely.
If you require a new transponder key, or have lost yours, the best choice is to call a professional and have them make it for you. The cost will be higher than a traditional key however it's a safer and better method to ensure that your vehicle is not able to be started by anyone else.
Keyless Entry System
Car key fobs are becoming an everyday feature in cars as more people want convenience, security and security. They can open doors, trigger the panic alarm, open the trunk, or even start the engine without having a physical key. They can also take a lot of abuse from being tossed around and they're more likely to be lost or stolen than metal keys. This means they're costly to replace, and you could require fob programming in order to pair your new key with your vehicle.
The cost of cutting a standard key fob at a hardware shop is around 10 dollars. However, the most recent smart keys can be expensive if you have to buy them, as well as program them. You can expect to spend between $200 and $500 on the replacement key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed for your car.
There are other more advanced car keys systems that allow you to make use of your smartphone as a key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle via the app on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, activate your parking break, and perform other tasks based on how close you are to the vehicle. These are great for people who live in urban areas, or even parents who are concerned about your children leaving the car without supervision.
Certain 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 the engine on if you're too far away. Some of these systems will help you locate your vehicle in a garage, while others will notify you when you open or close the doors.
These systems can also be useful for businesses such as property managers who oversee vacation rentals or offices. These systems permit them to monitor access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those with permissions are allowed in and out.
Dealership
Some people believe they need to go to the dealer when their keys are missing. They'll have to show proof of ownership, and sometimes keys must be ordered from the manufacturer which can take a few days. A dealer can usually do the job faster than a locksmith, and may even cost less.
automotive key replacement might need to be programmed for your car. This can be done at the dealership, or by referring to the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, as well as turning on and off lights and other electronic devices. It could even require pressing a number of buttons that function as an electronic code. Most of the time, this is performed by the driver, but it is always better to have a technician do it.
The year, make and model of the car will impact the price, too. Newer cars have advanced transponder chips that require pairing with the vehicle by a locksmith dealer, and the process can be more expensive.
A dealer who sells a particular brand of vehicle is more likely to be able to replace the keys for the vehicle. Some of the bigger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have several models and are well-versed in the keys.
Other brands are more 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 in production. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. Typically, these types of keys have to be reprogrammed, which can be more difficult and expensive than replacing the key itself.
It is recommended to get your spare key copied by a specialist rather than purchasing another one from the dealer. You will not have to pay the more expensive rates for after-hours or weekend services. If you lose your keys you can be sure that the cloned key will work.