Car Keys Replacement Cost
It wasn't that long ago that losing keys to cars was not a major issue. You could bring your spare key to a key cutter for the replacement key for less than $10.
Today, however, the process can be more complicated and costly. Learn about the different types and costs of keys for cars.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob can be described as an remote as well as a key in one. It's a small, plastic device with a button you can press to unlock doors, open the hatchback or trunk, roll down windows and maybe even start the car. The key fob has an embedded electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard system to control functions such as the starter.
A basic key fob is typically made of plastic and uses a regular lock-and-key mechanism, like the kind you might find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob could cost between $50 and $100, but the actual cost comes when you have to replace a lost or damaged one.
You'll likely need to visit a dealer if your car is more than five years old. A lot of newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. Locksmiths or key shops typically can do this for less though.
The cost of your fob could depend on the type of fob you own. Older vehicles have mechanical key fobs, while latest models use transponder keys. Both types of key fobs can come with a range of features. They could include keyless entry which locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically or rolling codes that are updated frequently to keep thieves from stealing the data on the key fob.
It's possible to buy an aftermarket key fob for less than what you'd pay at the dealer however, they may not be compatible with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru include security chips in their key fobs, which prevent them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob, if it's purchased, but it's highly unlikely that it will function.
You can find information about programming your key fob by visiting the site of the manufacturer or in the owner's manual. You should try to do this yourself first before paying a locksmith or going to the dealer. You can also look at the warranty of your vehicle, the roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance coverage to determine if they will cover the cost of a replacement fob for your key.
Transponder Key
Most modern cars utilize keys that are known as transponder keys. They have embedded chips in the head that sends an information to the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and launching the engine. This key is more secure than the conventional flat metal key due to the transponder chip blocks a car from starting without the proper signal. This technology was designed to prevent theft of cars since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these kinds of keys without the proper equipment.
In addition, many cars also come with immobilizer systems that stop them from starting if a non-transponder key is used. However, criminals have also come up with methods to gain access and steal cars with transponder keys.
A locksmith can assist you repair your transponder key in the event that it is damaged or lost. They'll require the details about your specific vehicle, including the VIN number along with the year, model and year. They will then either program your current key to the car's system, or cut a new one. This procedure is more expensive than simply getting a car dealership to cut and program a replacement key .
Some automotive stores like AutoZone or Walmart can cut and duplicate transponder keys but may not be capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. You should contact an experienced and reliable locksmith firm to be sure that a professional is able to handle the task.
Before the invention of technology like this it was quite easy to make duplicate car keys and then hot wire a car. This technique was used to steal cars and it allowed criminals drive away with stolen vehicles. The advent of transponder keys has greatly reduced this activity however, it's not completely eliminated.
You can get a professional to do this for you in the event that you require a replacement transponder key, or if you've lost one. It will cost more than a standard key but it's a safer and more reliable alternative to ensure that someone else cannot start your car.
Keyless Entry System
Car key fobs are now a standard feature in vehicles as more people seek convenience, security, and security. They can open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, and even start the engine without the physical key. However, they also endure some abuse from being used in a variety of ways, and they are more likely to get lost or stolen than metal keys. It's costly to replace them, and you might require programming your new fob to pair it with your vehicle.
A basic key fob costs about ten dollars to cut at the hardware store, however the most recent smart keys aren't cheap if you're looking to purchase them and then have them programmed. You can expect to spend between $200 and $500 for an alternative key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed for your vehicle.
There are also more advanced car key systems that let you make use of your smartphone as an actual key. You can lock or unlock your car via the app on your smartphone. You can also turn on and off your lights, activate your parking break, and perform other tasks depending on the proximity to the car. These are great for people who reside in urban areas, or even parents who are concerned about your children leaving the car unsupervised.
Some of these systems are expensive however they're also more secure than a standard car key since they monitor your location and stop you from locking the car or turning the engine on if you're too far away. They can also assist you to locate your car in a parking garage and even alert you when the doors are shut or opened.
These systems are also beneficial for companies such as property managers who manage office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to control access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also make sure that only those with permissions are permitted to enter and exit.
Dealership
Some people believe they need to go to the dealer when their keys are missing. The dealer will ask for proof of ownership, and could request the key from the manufacturer. This could take several days. A dealer is usually able to complete the job quicker than a locksmith, and could 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 consulting your owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, and turning on and off lights and other electronic devices. It could even require pressing a set of buttons that functions as an electronic code. Often, this can be performed by the driver, but it is better to have a technician handle it.
The cost will also be dependent on the year, model and year of vehicle. The cost of the service can be affected by the year, model and model of the vehicle.
A dealer who sells specific model of vehicle is more likely to be able to replace the keys for that particular vehicle. Some of the biggest manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a huge number 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. This includes a few of the older firms that have been shut down or are old enough to have keys that are no longer being produced. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are among the more established companies that no longer produce keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these kinds of keys require reprogramming, which can be more difficult and more expensive than replacing the key itself.
If you have a spare key, it is best to get it copied by a specialist rather than getting an exchange from the dealer. So, you don't have to worry about having to pay the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. If you do lose your keys you can rest assured that the copied key will function.