Car Keys Replacement Cost
It wasn't long ago that losing keys to cars was not a major issue. You could take your spare keys to a key cutter and get a new one for $10 or less.
Today, however the process is more complicated and costly. Find out more about the different types of keys for cars and how they will cost you to replace.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob is an remote control as well as a key in one. It's a small, plastic device that houses buttons or buttons that you press to unlock the doors, open the trunk or hatchback, roll down the windows, and possibly start the car. The key fob is equipped with an electronic chip built in that communicates with your car's onboard systems to regulate functions like the starter.
A basic key fob is usually made of plastic and uses a regular lock-and-key mechanism, such as the one you'd find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob could cost anything from $50 to $100, but the true cost comes when you have to replace a damaged or lost one.
If your car was built in the past five years, chances are that you'll need to visit the dealer for a replacement fob since many modern cars require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or key shop will typically be able to do this at a lower cost.
The type of fob you have can also impact the cost. Older cars have mechanical key fobs, while most recent models utilize transponder keys. Key fobs of both kinds are able to be fitted with a variety of functions. They may include keyless entry, which locks and unlocks your car automatically, or rolling codes that are changed frequently to stop thieves from stealing the information on your key fob.
It's possible to purchase an aftermarket key fob online for less than what you'd pay at a dealership, but these may not work with your vehicle. Some manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips that prevent their key fobs from interacting with third party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket key fob if it's brought in, however it's very likely that it won't function.
You can get information on programming your key fob by looking up the site of the manufacturer or in the owner's guide. It's worth trying to do this yourself before heading to the dealership or hiring an expert locksmith. You can also look into your car's warranty and auto insurance policy to see whether they cover the cost of replacing a key fob.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are utilized in the majority of modern cars. These keys have a chip embedded into the head which transmits an information to the vehicle when it is inserted in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and begin the engine. This key is more secure than the traditional flat metal keys because the transponder chip blocks a car from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was designed to reduce car theft because it is virtually impossible to duplicate these keys without the right equipment.
Additionally, many cars also have immobilizer systems that prevent them from starting if a non-transponder key is used. Car thieves have devised methods to steal vehicles with transponder key systems.
A locksmith can help replace your transponder key if it is damaged or lost. They'll require the details of your particular vehicle, including the VIN number along with the year, model and year. Then they will cut a new one or program the one they have to the car's system. This process is a bit more expensive than simply getting a car dealership to cut and program a replacement key .
Some auto stores such as AutoZone or Walmart can cut and copy 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 task, you should contact an experienced and trusted locksmith company.
It was relatively easy to create duplicate keys for a car and hot-wire a vehicle before the advent of this modern technology. This method was used to steal cars and it allowed criminals drive away with stolen vehicles. replacement keys have significantly reduced the risk of this crime, but not entirely eliminated it.
If you need a replacement transponder key, or have lost yours, the best choice is to call an expert and have them create it for you. The cost will be higher than a conventional key, but it's a safer and better method to ensure that your car is not able to be started by anyone else.
Keyless Entry System
As more and more people demand convenience, security and safety key fobs for cars have become a standard feature. They are able to open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, or start the engine without the physical key. They can be tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. They're also expensive to replace, and you might require fob programming to connect the new key with your vehicle.
The cost of cutting a basic key fob in a hardware store is about ten dollars. However, the newest smart keys can be expensive if you must purchase them as well as programme them. You should expect to pay between $200 and $500 on an alternative key fob. This includes the cost to have it cut and programmed to fit in your car.
Some sophisticated car key systems allow you to make use of your smartphone as an actual key. By using the app on your phone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car, and you can switch your lights on and off, activate your parking brake, and do other things depending on your proximity to the car. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas, or even if you're a parent that's worried about your children leaving the car unattended.
Certain of these systems can be expensive however, they're more secure than a regular car key because they can monitor your location and stop you from accidentally locking your car or turning on the engine when you're far away. They also can help you locate your car in garages that have parking spaces and can even warn you if the doors are shut or opened.
These kinds of systems could also be useful for companies, such as property managers that oversee office space or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to monitor access rights of guests cleaners, guests, and maintenance personnel, while ensuring that only those with the proper permissions can go in and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people might feel that they have to go to the dealer if their keys disappear. They'll have to show proof of ownership, and sometimes the key must be ordered from the manufacturer, which could take several days. But a dealer will generally complete the task for you much faster than a locksmith, and they might have lower prices, too.
The key fob may still require programming for your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by referring to your owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors, and turning off lights and other electronic components on and off. It could also require pressing a set of buttons which acts as a code. Most of the time, this is performed by the driver but it is always better to have a technician handle it.
The cost will also be dependent on the year, model and year of vehicle. Modern cars come with high-tech transponder chips that will require pairing with the car by a locksmith or a dealer and the process could be more expensive.
A dealer who sells specific model of car is more likely know how to replace the keys for that vehicle. Some of the bigger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have several models and are familiar with keys.
Certain brands are difficult to work with. This includes some of the more established firms that have been shut down or are old enough to have keys that are no longer being produced. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are a few of the older companies that have stopped producing keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. The keys are typically changed. This can be more expensive and time-consuming than replacing the key.
In general, if you have a spare key it is best to duplicate it at a specialist rather than getting a replacement from the dealer. So, you don't have to worry about paying the more expensive after-hours or weekend rates. Then, if you do lose your keys you can rest easy knowing that the copied key will function.