Car Keys Replacement Cost
A few years ago, losing your car keys was not an issue. You could take your spare to key cutters and purchase an additional one for $10 or less.
Nowadays, however, the process can be more complicated and expensive. Learn more about the various types of keys for cars and how they will cost you to replace them.
Basic Key Fob
Key fobs are a remote control and key in one. It's a small, plastic device with a button that can be pushed to open doors and hatchbacks, open the trunk, lower windows and maybe even start the car. The key fob is equipped with an electronic chip built in that communicates with the car's onboard systems to regulate functions like the starter.
Basic key fobs are made of standard plastic and are fitted with a standard lock and key mechanism. They are identical to those found on old Pontiacs as well as Saturns. A basic key fob could cost anything from $50 to $100, but the actual price is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one.
If your car was manufactured within the last five years, the chances are you'll need to go to the dealership for a replacement fob as many newer cars require special equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith shop or key shop will usually be in a position to provide this service for less.
The type of fob you're using can affect the price. Older vehicles use mechanical key fobs, whereas the most recent models typically have transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of key fobs can come with a variety of features. They can include keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically, or rolling codes that are updated frequently to stop thieves from stealing the information on your key fob.
You may be able to buy an aftermarket key fob for less than what you'd pay at the dealer however they might not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from working with third party devices. Some dealerships will program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in but there's a good chance it won't continue to work.
You can find out more about programming your key fob by visiting the website of the manufacturer or the owner's guide. It is recommended to try this yourself prior to paying an expert locksmith or visiting the dealer. You may also want to check the warranty on your vehicle and the auto-insurance policy to see whether they will cover the cost of a brand new key fob.
Transponder Key
Most modern cars utilize keys that are known as transponder keys. They have embedded chips in the head that sends an electronic message to the vehicle once it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and start the engine. This key is more secure than a conventional flat metal key due to the transponder chip prevents a car from starting without the proper signal. This technology was designed to reduce car theft as it is nearly impossible to duplicate these kinds of keys without the right equipment.
In addition, many cars also have immobilizer systems that prevent them from starting if keys that are not transponder compatible are used. However, car criminals have also come up with ways to steal and break into cars that are equipped with transponder keys.
A locksmith can help you replace your transponder key if it's damaged or stolen. They'll need the information about your specific vehicle, including the VIN number along with the year, model and year. Then they will cut a new one or program the existing one to the car's system. This is a costlier procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys.
Some stores for automotive like AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and duplicate transponder keys but they aren't capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. If you want to ensure that a professional will be able to handle the job, seek out a reputable and experienced locksmith business.
Before the advent of this technology, it was relatively simple to create a duplicate car key and then hot wire a car. This method of stealing vehicles was common and allowed criminals to enter and drive off 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 option is to contact a professional and have them create it for you. The cost will be more than a traditional 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 a standard feature in vehicles, as more and more people want convenience, security and security. These tiny devices can unlock doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, and even start your engine without needing the physical key in your hands. They are easily tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. This means they're costly to replace, and you could need fob programming to pair your new key with your vehicle.
A basic key fob costs about ten dollars to cut at an hardware store, but the most recent smart keys aren't cheap when you're looking to purchase them and then have them programmed. You should expect to pay between $200 and $500 on an alternative key fob. This includes the cost to have it cut and programmed for your vehicle.
There are other more advanced car keys systems that let you use your smartphone as an actual key. car key fob replacement near me can lock or unlock your car by using an app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn on and off your lights, turn on your parking break, and perform other tasks based on the proximity to your car. This is ideal for people who live in urban areas or have children and worry about your children being in the car without supervision.
Some of these systems can be expensive, but they're also more secure than a regular car key since they track your location and prevent you from accidentally locking your car or turning on the engine when you're far away. They can also help you locate your car in a parking garage and can even warn you when the doors are opened or closed.
These kinds of systems could also be beneficial to companies, such as property managers that oversee office space or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to monitor the access rights for guests as well as cleaning staff and maintenance personnel, while ensuring that only those who have the appropriate permissions are allowed to get in and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people feel they must visit a 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 could even charge less.
It is likely that the key fob will still require programming to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership, or by consulting the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, as well as switching off or on lights and other electronic devices. It may also require pressing a series of buttons that act as a code. This is often handled by the driver, but it's always better to let an expert take care of it.
The cost will also be affected by the year, make and model of vehicle. Modern cars feature advanced transponder chips that need to be paired with the car by a locksmith or dealer, and the process can be more expensive.
A dealer who sells a particular brand of car is more likely know how to replace keys for that vehicle. Some of the bigger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have a variety of models and are familiar with the keys.
Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have shut down or that are old enough that they no longer manufacture keys are listed. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are a few of the more established companies that do not produce keys anymore. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these types of keys need to be reprogrammed and can be more difficult and expensive than replacing the key itself.
It is recommended to have your spare key cloned by a professional instead of purchasing a new one from the dealer. You can avoid paying the higher rates for after-hours and weekend services. If you do lose your keys you can rest easy knowing that the key cloned will function.