Car Keys Replacement Cost
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys to your car 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 complicated and costly. Find out more about the different types of keys for cars and what they will cost you to replace.
Basic Key Fob
Key fobs are a remote control and a key in one. It's a small, plastic device that houses a button or buttons that you press to unlock the doors and trunk, open the hatchback, lower the windows, and possibly start the car. The key fob comes with an electronic chip embedded that communicates with your car's onboard systems for controlling functions such as the starter.
A basic key fob is usually made of plastic and uses a regular lock-and-key mechanism, like the kind you might find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost anything from $50 to $100, but the real price is when you need to replace a lost or damaged one.
You'll likely need to visit a dealer if the car is newer than five years. Many newer cars require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith shop or key shop is usually capable of doing this for less.
The cost of your fob can be affected by the type you have. Older cars have mechanical keys, whereas modern models usually come with transponder keys or smart keys. Key fobs of both types can be equipped with a range of features. They can include keyless entry that locks and unlocks your car automatically, or rolling codes that are changed frequently to keep thieves from intercepting the data on the key fob.
You might be able to buy an aftermarket key fob for less than the price you'd pay at the dealer however they might not work with your car. Certain manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips that block their key fobs from working with third-party devices. Some dealerships can program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in, but there's a good possibility that it won't function.
You can find information about programming your key fob by looking up the site of the manufacturer or in your owner's guide. It is recommended to try this yourself first before paying for a locksmith or going to the dealer. You can also look at your vehicle's warranty, roadside assistance and auto-insurance coverage to see if these will cover the cost of a replacement key fob.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are utilized in most newer cars. They have an embedded chip inside the head of the key which transmits a signal the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and starting the engine. This key is more secure than the traditional flat metal keys because the transponder chip prevents cars from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was developed to prevent theft of cars since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these kinds of keys without the appropriate equipment.
In addition, many cars also have immobilizer systems that prevent them from starting if the key is not transponder-compatible. Car thieves have devised methods of stealing cars with transponder key systems.
A locksmith can help you repair your transponder key in the event that it's damaged or lost. They will require details of your vehicle including the VIN number and model. They can then either program your current key to the car's computer system or cut an entirely new one. This is a more expensive process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.
Some automotive stores like AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and copy transponder keys however, they may not be capable of reprogramming chips in the key. You should contact a reputable and experienced locksmith company if you want to be sure that a professional will be able to handle the task.
It was relatively easy to make duplicate keys for a car, and then wire a vehicle prior to the advent of this latest technology. This method of stealing vehicles was widespread and allowed criminals to enter and drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced this crime, but not entirely eliminated it.
You can call an expert to handle this for you if you need an alternative transponder key or if you've lost yours. The cost will be more than a traditional key however it's a safer and more secure method to ensure that your car cannot be started by someone else.
Keyless Entry System
As more and more people demand security, convenience, and safety, car key fobs have become a common feature. They can open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, or start the engine without having a physical key. They are easily tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. That means they're expensive to replace, and you could require fob programming in order to pair your new key with your vehicle.
The cost of cutting a basic fob for a key at a hardware store is about ten dollars. However, the most recent smart keys can be expensive if you have to buy them as well as programme them. You should expect to pay between $200 and $500 on a replacement key fob. This includes the cost to have it cut and programmed for your vehicle.
Some advanced car key systems let you use your smartphone as an actual key. You can lock or unlock your car via the app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, activate your parking break, and do other tasks depending on the proximity to the car. They are perfect for people who reside in urban areas or even parents who are worried about your kids leaving the car unsupervised.
Some of these systems can be costly, but they are more secure than a standard car key. They monitor your location to stop you from locking or starting the car if you're too far away. They can also help you locate your car in garages that have parking spaces, and some can warn you if the doors are open or closed.
These systems are also beneficial for businesses such as property managers who oversee offices or vacation rentals. These systems are able to monitor the access rights for guests as well as cleaning staff and maintenance personnel, while ensuring that only those with the right permissions can get into and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people believe that they should go to the dealer if keys are missing. The dealer will ask for proof of ownership, and could purchase the key from the manufacturer. car key replacement price could take a few days. A dealer will usually complete the job faster than a locksmith and could even cost less.
The key fob could need to be programmed for your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership, or by consulting your owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, and turning off the lights and other electronic devices on and off. It could even require pressing a number of buttons which act as codes. Most of the time, this is done by the driver, however, it is best to have a technician handle it.
The cost will also be dependent on the year, make and model of vehicle. Newer cars have sophisticated transponder chips which will require pairing with the vehicle by a locksmith dealer and the process may be more expensive.
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 huge number of models and are more acquainted with the keys that are used for the specific models.
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 being produced. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn, and Eagle. These keys are usually changed. This is more expensive and complicated than replacing the key.
If you have a spare key it is recommended to get it copied by an expert instead of obtaining an alternative from the dealer. This way, you avoid having to pay the higher after-hours or weekend rates. Then, if you do lose your keys, you can rest easy knowing that the copied key will function.