Car Keys Replacement Cost
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys to your car was not a major issue. You could take your spare keys to an a key cutter and buy an additional one for $10 or less.
Today, however the process is more complex and expensive. Read on to learn about the various types of keys for cars and what they'll cost you to replace.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob is both an electronic remote and a key in one. It's a small plastic device that houses a button or buttons that you press to unlock the doors and trunk, open the hatchback, lower the windows, and possibly start the car. The key fob is equipped with an electronic chip in it that communicates with the car's onboard systems to regulate functions like the starter.
A basic key fob is usually made of standard plastic and utilizes a standard lock-and-key mechanism, such as the one you'd find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob costs anywhere between $50-$100, but you'll pay more if you need to replace one that has been lost or damaged.
If your car was made in the past five years, chances are you'll need to visit the dealer for a replacement fob as many newer vehicles require special equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith or a key shop will usually be able to do this for less however.
The cost of your fob could also be affected by the type you have. Older vehicles use mechanical key fobs, while the most recent models typically have transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of keys come with a variety of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the vehicle instantly to rolling codes that change regularly to prevent thieves from taking and using the key fob information of your car.
Key fobs that are available online could be less expensive than ones you can purchase from a dealer, but they might not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from working with third-party devices. Some dealerships will program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in but there's a good chance it won't continue to work.
You can get information on programming your key fob by searching the website of the manufacturer or the owner's manual. Try to do this yourself before hiring an expert locksmith or visiting the dealer. You can also look into the warranty on your vehicle and the auto-insurance policy to see whether they cover the cost of replacing a key fob.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are used in most newer cars. The keys have an embedded chip inside the head of the key that sends a signal to the vehicle when it is inserted into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and starting the engine. This key type is more secure than traditional flat metal keys since transponder chips stop the car from starting if it doesn't receive the right signal from the key. This technology was created to stop car theft since it is nearly impossible to duplicate these keys without the right equipment.
Many cars are also equipped with immobilizers which prevent them from being started if they are used with keys that do not have a transponder. Car thieves have come up with ways to steal cars equipped with transponder key systems.
A locksmith can assist you repair your transponder key in the event that it's damaged or lost. They'll need the details of your particular vehicle, including the VIN number, model and year. They'll either program your existing key to the car's computer system or cut a new one. This procedure is more expensive than having a car dealership cut and program a new key.
Some automotive stores, like AutoZone and Walmart, are also capable of cutting and re-copying the transponder keys, however they might not be in a position to reprogram the chip in the key. It is recommended to contact an experienced and reputable locksmith service to be sure that a professional is competent to complete the task.
It was fairly easy to create duplicate keys for a car and then hot-wire a car prior to the advent of this latest technology. This method of stealing vehicles was frequent and allowed criminals to enter and drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have drastically reduced this crime, but it isn't entirely eliminated it.
replacement keys for car can get an expert to do this for you if you need an extra transponder key or if you've lost yours. The cost will be higher than a standard key, but it's a safer and more secure method to ensure that your vehicle is not able to be started by anyone else.
Keyless Entry System
Car key fobs are becoming a standard feature of vehicles as people are seeking convenience, security, and security. They can open doors, trigger the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, or even start the engine without the physical key. But they can also endure quite a beating from being tossed around and they are more likely to get lost or stolen than the metal keys. That means they're expensive to replace, and you might require fob programming to connect your new key with your vehicle.
The cost of cutting a standard key fob at a hardware store is about 10 dollars. However, the most recent smart keys can be expensive when you need to purchase them, as well as program them. Based on your car's model and make you could expect to shell out between $200 to $500 for a replacement fob, and the cost of having it cut and programmed to your vehicle.
There are also more advanced car key systems that let you use your smartphone as a key. You can lock or unlock your car by using an app on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, activate your parking break, and do other things based on the proximity to the car. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas or if you have kids and are worried about children leaving the car unattended.
Certain of these systems may be expensive, but are more secure than a regular car key. They keep track of your location to prevent you from locking or opening the car if you are too far away. Certain systems will help you locate your vehicle in a garage, while others will notify you when you open or close the doors.
These systems are also beneficial for businesses such as property managers who oversee vacation rentals or offices. These systems can allow them to monitor access rights for guests as well as cleaning staff and maintenance personnel, while ensuring that only those who have the proper permissions can go in and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people believe they need to visit a dealer when keys are missing. They will need to show proof of ownership, and occasionally keys must be purchased from the manufacturer, which can take a few days. A dealer can usually do the job faster than a locksmith, and might even charge less.
The key fob may still need to be programmed for your vehicle. This can be done either at the dealership or by consulting your owner's guide. It involves opening and closing doors, as well as switching off or on lights and other electronic devices. It could even require pressing a number of buttons that act as an electronic code. Often, this can be performed by the driver, but it is better to have a technician handle it.
The cost can also be dependent on the year, model and year of vehicle. Modern cars feature high-tech transponder chips that will need to be paired with the vehicle by a locksmith or dealer and the process could be more expensive.
A dealer that sells a certain model of car is more likely to have the knowledge to replace keys for the model. Some of the biggest manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan, have a large number of models and are more acquainted with the keys that are used for those models.
Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the more established brands that have been shut down or are old enough that they no longer make keys are included. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn, and Eagle. These keys are usually reprogrammed. This is more expensive and time-consuming than replacing the key.
In general, if you have a spare key it is recommended to get it copied by a specialist rather than getting a replacement from the dealer. You will avoid paying more expensive rates for after-hours or weekend services. If you lose your keys you can be sure that the cloned key will work.