Car Keys Replacement Cost
It wasn't too long ago that losing car keys was not a major issue. You could bring your spare key to a key cutter for a new one that cost less than $10.
Today, however the process is more complex and costly. Learn more about the various kinds of car keys and how they'll cost you to replace.
Basic Key Fob
Key fobs are an electronic remote and a key in one. It's a small plastic device that houses a button or buttons that you push to unlock the doors, open the trunk or hatchback, lower the windows and maybe even start the car. The key fob has an electronic chip embedded that communicates with your car's onboard systems to control functions like the starter.
Key fobs for basic use are typically made of standard plastic and utilize a standard lock and key mechanism. replacement car keys price are identical to those that were used on the old Pontiacs and Saturns. A basic key fob can cost between $50 and $100, but the true cost comes when you have to replace a damaged or lost one.
If your car was manufactured within the past five years, chances are you'll need to go to the dealership to get a replacement fob since many modern cars require special equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith or a key shop can usually do this for less, however.
The type of fob you have can also impact the cost. Older vehicles use mechanical key fobs, whereas the latest models usually have transponder keys or smart keys. Both are able to have a range of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle instantly to rolling codes that are updated regularly to stop thieves from stealing and using the data from your key fob.
It's possible to buy an aftermarket key fob for less than the price you'd pay at the dealer however, they may not be compatible with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that block their key fobs from interacting with third party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket key fob, if it's brought in, but it's very likely that it won't function.
Check your owner's manual or go to the manufacturer's site for information on programming your specific model's key fob. It's a good idea to try this yourself before heading to the dealership or hiring a locksmith to do it. You can also look into the warranty on your vehicle and the auto-insurance policy to see if they cover the cost of a brand new key fob.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are used in the majority of newer automobiles. They 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 to unlock the car and launching the engine. This key is more secure than a traditional flat metal keys because the transponder chip blocks the car from starting if it does not have the right 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.
Many cars are also equipped with immobilizers which prevent them from being started when they are operated with keys that do not have a transponder. However, criminals have also come up with ways to break into and steal vehicles that have transponder keys.
A locksmith can usually assist you in replacing a lost or damaged transponder key. They'll need the details of your particular vehicle, including the VIN number as well as the model and year. They will then cut a new key or program the existing one to your car's security system. This is a costlier process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.
Some automotive stores like AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and copy transponder keys but they aren't capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. It is best to call an experienced and reputable locksmith company if you want to be sure that a professional is competent to complete the task.
It was relatively easy to make a duplicate key for a car and hot-wire a vehicle before the advent of this latest technology. This method of stealing cars was common and allowed criminals to gain entry and drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced the risk of this crime, but it isn't entirely eliminated it.
If you require a new transponder key or you have lost yours, the best choice is to contact an expert and have them create it for you. It's more expensive than a standard key however it's a safer and more secure alternative to ensure that someone else is unable to start your car.
Keyless Entry System
Car key fobs are now a standard feature in vehicles, as more and more people seek convenience, safety and security. These devices are able to open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, or start the engine without a physical key. They can also endure a lot of abuse from being tossed around and they are more likely to get lost or stolen than metal keys. It's costly to replace them, and you might have to program your new key to pair it with your vehicle.
A basic key fob costs ten or so dollars to get cut at a hardware store, but the most recent smart keys aren't cheap when you need to buy them and then have them programmed. You can expect to spend between $200 and $500 on the replacement key fob. This includes the cost to have it cut and programmed for your vehicle.
There are additionally more advanced car key systems that let you make use of your smartphone as an actual key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle by using an app on your phone. You can also turn on and off your lights, activate your parking break, and do other tasks depending on the proximity to the car. These are perfect for those who reside in urban areas or have children and worry about children leaving the car unattended.
Certain of these systems are costly, but they're also more secure than a regular car key since they track your location and prevent you from locking the car or turning off the engine when you're far away. They can also assist you to locate your car inside garages that have parking spaces and can even warn you when the doors are opened or closed.
These systems are also useful for businesses like property managers who oversee offices or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to monitor access rights of guests cleaners, guests, and maintenance workers, while ensuring that only those who have the right permissions can get in and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people feel they must go to the dealer if keys are missing. The dealer will request proof of ownership and request the key from the manufacturer. This could take a few days. A dealer will usually complete the job quicker than a locksmith and may even charge less.
The key fob may still require programming to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by reading your owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, and switching off and on lights and other electronic devices. It could also involve pressing a series of buttons which acts as the code. Often, this can be performed by the driver, however, it is best to have a technician do it.
The year, make and model of the vehicle will impact the cost as well. Modern cars feature sophisticated transponder chips which will need to be paired with the vehicle by a locksmith dealer and the process may be more expensive.
A dealer who sells a particular brand of car is more likely be able to replace the keys for the vehicle. Some of the biggest manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler, have many models and are well-versed in keys.
Some brands are harder to work with. This includes some of the more established companies that have closed, or are old enough to have keys that are no longer being produced. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are among the more established companies that have stopped producing keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these kinds of keys need to be reprogrammed and can be more complicated and costly than replacing the key itself.
It is recommended that you get your spare key copied by a specialist rather than getting a new one from the dealer. You can avoid paying the higher rates for after-hours and weekend services. Then, if you lose your keys, you can rest easy knowing that the key cloned will work.