Car Keys Replacement Cost
It wasn't too long ago that losing keys to your car was not a problem. You could take your spare to key cutters and purchase a new one for $10 or less.
Nowadays, however, the process is more complicated and expensive. Find out more about the various kinds of car keys and how they will cost you to replace them.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob is an electronic remote control and a key in one. It's a small, plastic device with a button you can press to unlock doors, open the hatchback or trunk, roll down windows and maybe even start your car. The key fob also comes with a built-in electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard computer system to control functions such as the starter.
Basic key fobs are constructed from plastic that is standard, and use a regular lock and key mechanism. They are identical to those that were used on the old Pontiacs and Saturns. A basic key fob may cost between $50 and $100, but the actual price is when you need to replace a lost or damaged one.
You'll probably need to visit a dealer if your vehicle is more than five years old. A lot of newer vehicles require special equipment to code and programme new keys. A locksmith or key shop can usually perform this task for less, however.
The type of fob you have will also affect the price. Older vehicles have mechanical keys, while the latest models use transponder keys. Both can have a wide range of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the vehicle in a controlled manner to rolling codes that are updated regularly to deter thieves from intercepting and using your car's key fob data.
You may be able to purchase an aftermarket key fob at a lower cost than what you'd pay at the dealership however they might not be compatible with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that prevent their key fobs from interacting with third-party devices. Some dealers can program an aftermarket key fob when it's brought in, however it's very likely that it won't work.
You can get information on programming your key fob by searching the manufacturer's site or the owner's manual. It's a good idea to try this yourself prior to going to the dealership or paying a locksmith to do it. You may also want to check your car's warranty and auto insurance policy to determine whether they will cover the cost of replacing a key fob.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are used in the majority of modern cars. These keys contain an embedded chip in the head of the key that sends 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 traditional flat metal keys because transponder chips prevent 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 virtually impossible to duplicate these keys without the proper equipment.
Additionally, many cars also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting when keys that are not transponder compatible are used. Car thieves have developed methods to steal vehicles with transponder key systems.
A locksmith can assist you repair your transponder key in the event that it's damaged or stolen. They'll need the details about your specific vehicle, such as the VIN number along with the year, model and year. They can then either program your existing key to the car's system, or cut an entirely new one. This procedure is more expensive than simply cutting a key from a dealership and program a replacement key.
Some stores for automotive, such as AutoZone and Walmart, are also able to cut and copy a transponder key, but they might not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. It is best to call an experienced and reputable locksmith firm to be sure that a professional is competent to complete the task.
Before the invention of technology like this, it was relatively easy for someone to make duplicate car keys and then hot wire a car. This method of stealing cars was frequent and allowed criminals to get into and drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced the risk of this crime, but not entirely eliminated it.
You can contact an expert to handle this for you if you require an extra transponder key or if you lost yours. It's more expensive than a standard one, but it's a much safer and more secure alternative to ensure that someone else will not be able to start your car.
Keyless Entry System
Car key fobs are now a standard feature of vehicles as people are seeking convenience, safety and security. These transmitters can open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, and even start the engine without a physical key. But they can also endure quite a beating from being tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen than the metal keys. 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 standard fob for a key at a hardware store is about ten dollars. However, the newest smart keys can be costly when you need to purchase them, as well as program them. Based on the make and model you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $500 for a replacement fob and the cost of having it cut and programmed to your vehicle.
There are additionally more advanced car key systems that allow you to make use of your smartphone as a key. Using the app on your phone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car and you can switch on and off, as well as activate your parking brake, and do other things depending on your proximity to the car. These apps are ideal for those who live in urban areas, or even if you're a parent that's concerned about your children leaving the car without supervision.
Certain of these systems may be costly, but they are more secure than a regular car key. They keep track of your location to prevent you from locking or starting the car if you are far from. Certain of these systems will help you locate your car in a garage, and others can alert you if you close or open the doors.
These systems can also be useful for companies such as property managers who oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems are able to monitor access rights for guests as well as cleaning staff and maintenance personnel, while making sure that only those with the appropriate permissions are allowed to get in and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people may think that they have to visit a dealership if their keys disappear. The dealer will ask for proof of ownership, and could purchase keys from the manufacturer. This could take several days. But a dealer can also typically complete the task for you quicker than locksmiths, and may offer lower prices as well.
The key fob could require to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done either through the dealer or reading the owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, as well as turning on and off lights and other electronic devices. It may even require pressing a series of buttons that act as codes. This is usually handled by the drivers, however it's best to let an expert take care of it.
The year the car was manufactured, its model and make of the vehicle will affect the cost as well. Newer cars have high-tech transponder chips that will need to be paired with the car by a locksmith or dealer and the process may be more expensive.
A dealer who sells a specific model will be more likely to be able to replace keys for the 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 for the models they sell.
Certain brands are more difficult to work with. This includes a few of the older firms that have been shut down or are old enough to have keys that are no longer being produced. auto key replacement , Pontiac and Hummer are among the older companies that no longer produce keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. The keys are typically modified. This is more expensive and time-consuming than replacing the key.
In general, if you have a spare key it is usually best to duplicate it at a specialist instead of getting an alternative from the dealer. You can avoid paying the higher rates for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys you are assured that the cloned key will work.