Car Keys Replacement Cost
A few years ago, losing your car keys was not an issue. You could bring your spare key to a key cutting shop for a new one that cost $10 or less.
Today, however the process is more complicated and costly. Find out about the various kinds and costs for keys for cars.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob can be described as a remote control and an actual key in one. It's a small, plastic piece with a button you can press to unlock doors or hatchbacks, open the trunk, lower windows, and possibly even start your car. The key fob also comes with a built-in 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, such as the kind you might find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob may cost between $50 and $100, but the true price is when you need to replace a lost or damaged one.
If your car was built in the past five years, chances are that you'll need to go to the dealership for a replacement fob, as many newer cars require special equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith or a key shop will typically be able to do this at a lower cost.
The cost of the fob you purchase can also be affected by the type you have. Older cars have mechanical key fobs, while the latest models usually have transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of keys can have a wide range of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the car instantly to rolling codes that change regularly to deter thieves from intercepting and stealing the data from your key fob.
It's possible to purchase an aftermarket key fob for less than the price you'd pay at the dealership, but these may not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru, have security chips inside their key fobs that block them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealers will program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in, but there's a good chance it won't continue to function.
Go through your owner's manual or go to the manufacturer's site to find information about programming your particular model's key fob. It's a good idea to try this yourself prior to going to the dealer or hiring an expert locksmith. You may also want to check the warranty on your vehicle and the auto-insurance policy to determine whether they cover the cost of replacing a key fob.
Transponder Key
Most newer cars use keys that are known as transponder keys. They have an embedded chip in the head that transmits an electronic message to the vehicle once it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and launching the engine. This type of key is more secure than standard flat metal keys since transponder chips stop the car from starting if it fails to receive a signal from the correct key. This technology was designed to stop car theft since it is nearly impossible to duplicate these keys without the proper equipment.
Additionally, many cars also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting if keys that are not transponder compatible are used. However, thieves have also developed ways to gain access and steal cars that are equipped with transponder keys.
A locksmith is usually able to assist you in replacing a lost or damaged transponder key. They'll need the details of your particular 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 is a more expensive procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys.
Some auto stores, such as AutoZone and Walmart, are also able to cut and copy the transponder keys, however they may not be in a position to reprogram the chip inside the key. It is best to call an experienced and reputable locksmith firm to ensure that a professional is capable of handling the job.
It was fairly easy to create duplicate keys for a car and hot-wire a vehicle before the advent of this modern technology. This method of stealing cars was very widespread and allowed criminals to enter and drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced this crime, but it isn't entirely eliminated it completely.
You can get a professional to do this for you in the event that you require an extra transponder key or if you've lost yours. It's more expensive than a standard one, but it's a much safer and better alternative to ensure that someone else cannot start your car.
Keyless Entry System
As increasing numbers of people want security, convenience, and safety keys for their cars have become a standard feature. These tiny transmitters can open doors, activate the alarm that sounds a panic and open the trunk and even start your engine without needing to carry a physical key in your hands. They can be tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. It's expensive to replace them, and you might have to program your new fob to pair it with your vehicle.
The cost of cutting a basic key fob in an hardware store is around ten dollars. However, the latest smart keys can be costly if you must purchase them as well as programme them. You can expect to spend between $200 and $500 for an alternative key fob. This includes the cost to have it cut and programmed to fit in your car.
Some advanced car key systems allow you to make use of your smartphone as keys. You can lock or unlock your vehicle remotely using the app on your smartphone. You can also turn on and off your lights, activate your parking break, and do other tasks depending on how close you are to the vehicle. They are perfect for people who reside in urban areas, or even parents who are concerned about your children leaving the car unattended.
Some of these systems can be expensive, but they are more secure than a standard car key. They track your location to prevent you from locking or opening the car if you're far away. Certain systems will help you locate your car in a garage and others can notify you when you shut or open the doors.
These systems are also useful for businesses such as property managers who manage office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems can allow them to monitor the access rights of guests, cleaning staff, and maintenance personnel, while making sure that only those with the appropriate permissions are allowed to get into and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people feel they must go to the dealer if their keys are missing. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership, and could order the key from the manufacturer. This could take several days. A dealer is usually able to complete the job more quickly than a locksmith and might even charge less.
It is likely that the key fob will still require programming to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by referring to the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, and turning off lights and other electronic components on and off. It could even require pressing a series of buttons that function as codes. It is usually performed by the driver however, it is best to have a technician perform it.
The cost can also be dependent on the year, model and year of vehicle. The cost of the service can be affected by the year, make and model of the vehicle.
A dealer who sells a particular brand of car will be more likely to know how to change keys for that model. Some of the larger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a wide number of models, and are more familiar with the keys that are used for the specific models.
Some brands are harder 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. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn, and Eagle. Typically, these kinds of keys require reprogramming which is more difficult and more expensive than replacing the key itself.
It is recommended that you have your spare key cloned by a professional rather than buying an entirely new one from a dealer. You will avoid paying more expensive rates for after-hours or weekend services. If replacement key for car near me lose your keys, you can be sure that the cloned key will work.