Car Keys Replacement Cost
It wasn't long ago that misplacing keys to cars was not a problem. You could bring 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 about the various kinds 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 that houses one or more buttons that you press to unlock the doors and trunk, open the hatchback, lower the windows, and possibly start the car. The key fob also comes with 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 standard plastic and uses a regular lock-and-key mechanism, like the type you'd find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost anywhere from $50 to $100, but the actual cost is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one.
If your car was made within the past five years, chances are that you'll need to visit the dealer for a replacement fob, since many modern cars require specialized equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith or a key shop will usually be able to perform this task for less, though.
The type of fob you're using can affect the price. Older cars use mechanical keys, whereas the latest models usually have transponder keys or smart keys. Key fobs of both types are able to be fitted with a variety of features. They may include keyless entry that locks and unlocks your car automatically, or rolling codes that change regularly to prevent thieves from intercepting the data on your key fob.
Key fobs that are available online could be less expensive than the ones you can get from the dealer, but they may not work on your car. Some manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from working with third-party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in however there's a high chance it won't continue to function.
Check your owner's manual or visit the manufacturer's website for more information about programming your particular model's key fob. It is recommended to try this yourself prior to paying an expert locksmith or visiting the dealer. You can also look at your vehicle's warranty, roadside assistance and auto-insurance coverage to see if these cover the costs of a replacement key fob.
Transponder Key
Most modern cars utilize keys of a different type, known as transponder keys. They have an embedded chip in the head that sends an information to the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and starting the engine. This type of key is more secure than conventional flat metal keys due to transponder chips stop the car from starting if it does not receive a signal from the correct key. This technology was designed to prevent theft of cars since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the right equipment.
Additionally, many vehicles also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting if keys that are not transponder compatible are used. However, car thieves have also developed ways to break into and steal vehicles that have transponder keys.
A locksmith can help you repair your transponder key in the event that it is damaged or lost. They will need to have the details of your particular vehicle, such as the VIN number as well as the model and year. They'll either program the key you have to the car's system or cut a new one. This is a more costly process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.
Some auto stores such as AutoZone or Walmart can cut and duplicate transponder keys however, they may not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. It is recommended to contact a reputable and experienced locksmith service to be sure that a professional will be competent to complete the task.
Before the invention of technology like this it was quite simple to create duplicate car keys and then hot wire a vehicle. This was a method used to steal cars, and it allowed criminals drive away with stolen vehicles. The advent of transponder keys has greatly reduced this activity, but it is not completely eliminated.
If you need a replacement transponder keys or you've lost yours, the best choice is to contact a professional and have them do it for you. It will cost more than a standard key, but it's a much safer and more reliable option to ensure that someone else cannot start your car.
Keyless Entry System
Car key fobs are becoming an everyday feature in cars, as more and more people want convenience, safety and security. These little transmitters can unlock doors, set off the panic alarm, open the trunk, and even start your car without having to have a physical key in your hand. They are easily tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. It's expensive to replace keys, and you might need to program your new key to pair it with your vehicle.
A standard key fob can cost ten or so dollars to cut at the hardware store, however the latest smart keys can be expensive if you want to purchase the keys and have them programmed. Based on your car's model and make, you can expect to pay between $200 to $500 for a replacement fob, and the cost of cutting it and programming it to your vehicle.
Certain advanced car key systems allow you to use your phone as keys. You can lock or unlock your vehicle remotely using the app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, turn on your parking break, as well as perform other tasks depending on the distance you're to the vehicle. This is ideal for people who reside in urban areas, or if you have kids and worry about your children being in the car without supervision.
Some of these systems are costly, but they're also more secure than a regular car key since they locate you and prevent you from locking the car or turning the engine on if you're too far away. They can also help you locate your car in a parking garage and even alert you if the doors are opened or closed.
These kinds of systems could also be useful for companies, such as property managers who manage vacation rentals or office spaces. These systems are able to monitor access rights for guests cleaners, guests, and maintenance workers, while making sure that only those with the proper permissions can go into and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people believe they need to go to the dealer when keys are missing. The dealer will ask for proof of ownership and purchase the key from the manufacturer. This can take several days. But a dealer can also typically complete the task for you quicker than locksmiths, and they may have cheaper prices, too.
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 guide. It involves opening and shutting doors, as well as switching off and on lights and other electronic devices. It may even require pressing a number of buttons that act as an electronic code. This is often handled by the drivers, but it's best to let an expert manage it.
The cost is also affected by the year, make and type of vehicle. The cost of the service may also be affected by the year, make and model of the vehicle.
A dealer who sells a specific brand of car will be more likely to know how to replace keys for the model. Some of the bigger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan, have a large variety of models and are more acquainted 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 companies that have closed, or are old enough to have keys that are no longer in production. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. Typically, these kinds of keys need to be reprogrammed, which can be more difficult and expensive than replacing the key itself.
It is best to have your spare key cloned by a professional rather than purchasing a new one from a dealer. That way you can avoid paying the higher after-hours or weekend rates. If you do lose your keys, you can rest assured that the cloned key will function.