A How-To Guide For Car Keys Replacement Cost From Start To Finish
Car Keys Replacement Cost
A few years ago, losing your keys to your car wasn't an issue. You could bring your spare to a key cutter and get an additional one for $10 or less.
Today, however the process can be more complicated and expensive. Find out more about the various types of car keys and how they'll cost you to replace them.
Basic Key Fob
Key fobs are an electronic remote and a key in one. It's a tiny plastic device that houses a button or buttons that you press to unlock the doors and open the trunk or hatchback, open the windows and maybe even start the car. The key fob is equipped with an electronic chip in it that communicates with your car's onboard systems to control functions like the starter.
A basic key fob is usually constructed of plastic that employs a lock-and key mechanism, such as the type you'd find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can 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 within the last 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 do this at a lower cost.
The kind of fob you own will also affect the price. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, while the most recent models typically have transponder keys or smart keys. Key fobs of both types can come with a variety 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 information on your key fob.
It's possible to buy an aftermarket key fob for less than what you'd pay at a dealership however, they may not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips in their key fobs, which prevent them 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 work.
Read the owner's manual for your model or visit the manufacturer's website for more information on programming your specific model's key fob. It's worth trying this yourself prior to going to the dealership or paying a locksmith to do it. You can also check the warranty on your vehicle and the auto-insurance policy to see whether they cover the cost of a brand new key fob.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are utilized in most newer cars. These keys contain a chip embedded in the head of the key that transmits a signal to the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. The signal is used to unlock the car and start the engine. This key type is more secure than conventional flat metal keys because transponder chips stop the car from starting if it fails to receive a signal from the correct key. This technology was created to reduce car theft because it is nearly impossible to duplicate these keys without the proper equipment.
In addition, many cars also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting when a non-transponder key is used. However, car criminals have also come up with methods to break into and steal cars that are equipped with transponder keys.
A locksmith can help repair your transponder key in the event that it is damaged or lost. They'll require the information about your specific vehicle, such as the VIN number, model and year. They can then either program your existing key to the car's computer system or cut a new one. This is a more costly process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.
car replacement keys near me for automotive, such as AutoZone and Walmart can also be able to cut and copy the transponder keys, however they may not be capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. It is best to call a reputable and experienced locksmith service to ensure that a professional is able to handle the task.
Before the advent of technology like this, it was relatively simple to create duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a vehicle. This technique was used to steal cars and it allowed criminals drive away with stolen vehicles. The introduction of transponder keys has drastically reduced this crime, but it is not completely eliminated.
If you need a new transponder keys or you've lost yours, the best solution is to call a professional and have them do it for you. It will cost more than a standard key, but it's a safer and more secure option to ensure that someone else will not be able to start your car.
Keyless Entry System
As more and more people demand convenience, safety and security, car key fobs are now a standard feature. These little transmitters can unlock doors, set off the panic alarm or open the trunk and even start your car without having to have a physical key in your hands. They can be thrown around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. It's expensive to replace keys, and you might have to program your new fob to connect it with your vehicle.
The cost of cutting a standard key fob at a hardware store is about ten dollars. However, the most recent smart keys can be expensive if you must purchase them and then program them. Based on the make and model you could expect to shell out between $200 and $500 to replace a fob and the cost of having it cut and programmed to your vehicle.
Certain advanced car key systems allow you to use your phone as keys. You can lock or unlock your car via the app on your phone. You can also turn off and on your lights, activate your parking break, as well as perform other things based on how close you are to your car. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas or have children and are worried about your children being in the car without supervision.
Some of these systems could be expensive, but they are more secure than the standard car key. They monitor your location to stop you from accidentally locking or starting the car when you are too far away. Certain of these systems can help you locate your vehicle in a garage, while others will notify you when you shut or open the doors.
These types of systems can also be beneficial to businesses, like property managers who oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems can allow them to monitor the access rights of guests cleaners, guests, and maintenance staff, as well as ensuring that only those with the appropriate permissions are allowed to get in and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people may feel that they need to go to the dealer if keys go missing. The dealer will request proof of ownership and order the key from the manufacturer. This could take a few days. But a dealer will generally complete the task for you faster than locksmiths, and they might have lower prices, as well.
It is likely that the key fob will need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership, or by reading your owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, and turning on and off lights and other electronic devices. It could also involve pressing a series of buttons that functions as an electronic code. It is usually done by the driver, but it is better to have a technician perform it.
The year the model, make and year of the car will impact the cost as well. Modern cars feature sophisticated transponder chips which will need to be paired with the vehicle by a locksmith or dealer, and the process can be more costly.
A dealer that sells a certain model will be more likely to know how to replace keys for the model. Some of the biggest manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a huge variety of models and are more familiar with the keys for the models they sell.
Some brands are harder to work with. This includes some of the more established companies that have shut down, or are old enough to have keys that are no longer in production. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. The keys are typically modified. This can be more expensive and complicated than replacing the key.
It is best to get your spare key copied by a professional rather than purchasing another one from the dealer. That way you can avoid having to pay the more expensive after-hours or weekend rates. If you do lose your keys, you can rest assured that the cloned key will function.