Car Keys Replacement Cost
It wasn't long ago that losing car keys was not a major issue. You could take your spare key to a key cutter for the replacement key for $10 or less.
Nowadays, however, the process is more complex and costly. Find out more about the different types of keys for cars and how they will cost you to replace them.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob is both an electronic remote and a key in one. It's a small, plastic device that has a button or buttons that you press to unlock the doors, open the trunk or hatchback, lower the windows, and perhaps start the car. The key fob has an electronic chip embedded that communicates with your car's onboard systems to regulate functions such as the starter.
A basic key fob is usually made of standard plastic and uses a regular lock-and-key mechanism, such as the type you'd find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob will cost anywhere between $50 to $100, however you'll be charged more if you require a replacement for one that has been damaged or lost.
You'll probably need to visit the dealer if your vehicle is newer than five years. Most newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. Locksmiths or key shops typically can perform this task for less, though.
The cost of your fob can also be affected by the type you have. Older vehicles have mechanical keys, while the latest models use transponder keys. Both types of key fobs can come with a range of features. They may include keyless entry that locks and unlocks your car automatically or rolling codes that change regularly to prevent thieves from stealing 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 work on your car. Certain manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips in their key fobs that prevent them from working with third-party devices. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob when it's brought in, but it's very likely that it won't work.
You can find information about programming your key fob by looking up the website of the manufacturer or the owner's guide. You should try to do this yourself prior to paying a locksmith or going to the dealer. You can also look at your vehicle's warranty, roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance coverage to see if these cover the costs 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 key's head that transmits a signal to the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and begin the engine. This key is more secure than a traditional flat metal keys because the transponder chip blocks a car from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was developed to prevent theft of cars since it is nearly impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the appropriate equipment.
Many vehicles are also equipped with immobilizers which prevent them from starting if they are used with keys that are not transponder. However, car thieves have also devised methods to steal and break into cars that are equipped with transponder keys.
A locksmith can help to replace your transponder keys if it is damaged or lost. They'll need information about your vehicle including the VIN number and model. Then, they'll cut a new key or program the one they have 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 or Walmart can also cut and copy transponder keys, but they aren't capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. It is recommended to contact an experienced and reliable locksmith firm to ensure that a professional is able to handle the task.
Before the invention of technology like this it was fairly simple to create duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a car. This technique was used to steal cars, and it allowed criminals drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have drastically reduced this crime, but they haven't completely eliminated it completely.
You can call an expert to do this for you if you need a replacement transponder key, or if you've lost yours. The cost will be more than a conventional key, but it's a safer and better method to ensure that your car cannot be started by someone else.
car key replacement
As increasing numbers of people seek convenience, security and safety, car key fobs are now a standard feature. These devices are able to open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, or start the engine without having the physical key. They are easily tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. They're also expensive to replace, and you might require fob programming in order to pair your new one with your vehicle.
A standard key fob can cost around ten dollars to get cut at a hardware store, but the most recent smart keys aren't cheap when you're looking to purchase the keys and have them programmed. Based on the make and model you could expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $500 for a replacement fob in addition to the cost of cutting it and programming it to your vehicle.
There are other more advanced car keys systems that allow you to use your smartphone as an actual key. With the application on your smartphone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car, and you can also switch your lights on and off, turn off your parking brake, and perform other things depending on your proximity to the car. This is ideal for people who reside in urban areas, or have children and worry about children leaving the car unattended.
Some of these systems can be expensive, but are more secure than a standard car key. They monitor your location to stop you from locking or opening the car if you are too far from. Some of these systems can help you locate your car in a garage and others can alert you if you open or close the doors.
These types of systems can also be beneficial for businesses, like property managers who manage office space or vacation rentals. These systems let them monitor access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also make sure that only those with permissions are allowed to enter and exit the premises.
Dealership
Some people might feel that they must visit a dealership if their keys are lost. The dealer will request proof of ownership and may request the key from the manufacturer. This can take several days. However, a dealer can typically complete the task for you faster than locksmiths, and may offer lower prices too.
The key fob might need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done either at the dealer or by reading the owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors, and turning off the lights and other electronic devices on and off. It may also require pressing a number of buttons that act as an electronic code. Often, this can be done by the driver, but it is better to have a technician perform it.
The year, make and model of the vehicle will impact the price, too. Modern cars feature advanced transponder chips that need to be paired with the vehicle by a locksmith or a dealer, and the process can be more costly.
A dealer who sells a specific model will be more likely to be able to replace keys for the model. Some of the larger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan, have a large variety of models and are more familiar with the keys that are used for the models they sell.
Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the more established brands that have shut down or are so old that they no longer produce keys are listed. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. The keys are typically reprogrammed. This can be more expensive and difficult than replacing the key.
It is best to have your spare key cloned by a specialist rather than buying an entirely new one from the dealer. That way you can avoid having to pay the higher after-hours or weekend rates. If you lose your keys, you are assured that the cloned one will work.