Car Keys Replacement Cost
Not long ago, misplacing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could take your spare to key cutters and purchase an additional one for $10 or less.
Today, however, the process is more complicated and costly. Learn more about the various types of keys for cars and what they will cost you to replace them.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob can be described as an remote control as well as key in one. It's a tiny plastic device that has a button or buttons that you can push to unlock the doors and open the trunk or hatchback, roll down the windows, and possibly start the car. The key fob has an electronic chip built in that communicates with the car's onboard systems for controlling functions such as the starter.
Key fobs for basic use are typically constructed from plastic that is standard, and utilize a standard lock and key mechanism. These are the same as those that were used on the old Pontiacs and Saturns. A basic key fob could cost anywhere from $50 to $100, but the actual price is when you need to replace a lost or damaged one.
If your car was built within the last five years, chances that you'll have to visit the dealership for a replacement fob, as many newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith shop or key shop will typically be in a position to provide this service for less.
The cost of your fob could also depend on the type of fob you own. Older vehicles use mechanical keys, whereas the most recent models typically have transponder keys or smart keys. Key fobs of both types can come with a range of features. They could include keyless entry, which locks and unlocks your car automatically, or rolling codes that are changed frequently to keep thieves from stealing the information on the key fob.
Key fobs purchased online may be less expensive than ones you can buy at the dealer, but they may not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips that block their key fobs from working with third party devices. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob, if it's purchased, but it's very likely that it won't work.
Read the owner's manual for your model or visit the manufacturer's website to find information on programming your specific model's key fob. You should try to do this yourself first before paying for a locksmith or going to the dealer. You can also look into your vehicle's warranty and auto-insurance policy to determine whether they will cover the cost of replacing a key fob.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are found in the majority of newer automobiles. The keys have an embedded chip in the head of the key that transmits a signal to the vehicle when it is inserted into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and starting the engine. This key type is more secure than conventional flat metal keys since transponder chips stop the car from starting if it does not receive the right signal from the key. This technology was created to reduce car theft because it is almost impossible to duplicate these keys without the proper equipment.
Additionally, many cars also come with immobilizer systems that stop them from starting if keys that are not transponder compatible are used. Car thieves have devised methods to steal vehicles with transponder key systems.
A locksmith is usually able to help you replace a lost or damaged transponder key. They will need to have the details of your particular vehicle, such as the VIN number as well as the model and year. They'll either program the key you have 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 stores for automotive, such as AutoZone and Walmart are also able to cut and copy the transponder keys, however they might not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. You should contact a reputable and experienced locksmith service to ensure that a professional will be capable of handling the job.
It was fairly easy to make duplicate keys for a car, and then hot-wire a car prior to the advent of this latest technology. This method of stealing vehicles was common and allowed criminals to enter and drive off with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have drastically reduced this crime, but it isn't entirely eliminated it completely.
If you require a new transponder keys or you've lost yours, the best choice is to contact a professional and have them do it for you. The cost will be more than a traditional key however it's a safer and more secure method to ensure that your vehicle can't be started by anyone else.
Keyless Entry System
Car key fobs are now a standard feature of vehicles, as more and more people want convenience, safety and security. These tiny devices can unlock doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, and even start your engine without having the physical key in your hand. However, they also be subject to a lot of abuse from being tossed around, and are more likely to be lost or stolen than metal keys. It's costly to replace them, and you might have to program your new fob to pair it with your vehicle.
A standard key fob can cost ten or so dollars to get cut at a hardware store, but the most recent smart keys aren't cheap if you need to buy them and then have them programmed. It is possible to spend between $200 and $500 on the replacement key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed for your car.
There are car key replacement advanced car keys systems that allow you to make use of your smartphone as a key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle remotely using the app on your phone. You can also turn on and off your lights, activate your parking break, and perform other tasks depending on the proximity to the vehicle. These are great for people who live in urban areas, or if you're a parent that's worried about your kids leaving the car unsupervised.
Certain of these systems are expensive however they're also more secure than a standard car key because they can track your location and prevent you from accidentally locking the car or turning the engine on if you're too far away. Certain systems can assist you in finding your car in a garage and others can notify you when you open or close the doors.
These types of systems can also be beneficial for companies, such as property managers who manage office space or vacation rentals. These systems are able to monitor access rights for guests as well as cleaning staff and maintenance workers, while ensuring that only those who have the proper permissions can go into and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people may feel that they must go to the dealer if their keys disappear. They'll have to show proof of ownership, and occasionally the key must be ordered from the manufacturer which could take several days. A dealer is usually able to complete the job faster than a locksmith, and could even cost less.
It is likely that the key fob will require programming to your vehicle. This can be done either at the dealer or by looking up the owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors, as well as turning lights and other electronic components on and off. It could also involve pressing a series of buttons which acts as an electronic code. This is usually handled by the driver, but it is always best to let a technician manage it.
The year the car was manufactured, its model and make of the vehicle will have an impact on the price as well. The cost of the service may also be affected by the year, model and model of the vehicle.
A dealer who sells a specific brand of car is more likely to know how to replace keys for the vehicle. Some of the larger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan, have a large variety of models and are more acquainted with the keys that are used for the models they sell.
Other brands are more difficult 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 some of the older companies that do not produce keys anymore. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these keys have to be reprogrammed, which can be more difficult and expensive than replacing the key itself.
In general, if you have a spare key, it is best to have it cloned at a specialist rather than getting a replacement from the dealer. That way you can avoid paying the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. Then, if you do lose your keys you can rest easy knowing that the cloned key will function.