Car Keys Replacement Cost
In the past, losing your car keys was not an issue. You could bring your spare to an a key cutter and buy a new one for $10 or less.
However car key mobile replacement has gotten more complicated and costly. Learn about the various types and costs for keys for cars.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob can be described as an electronic remote and a key in one. It's a small, plastic piece with a button that you can push to unlock doors and hatchbacks, open the trunk, open windows, roll them down and, possibly, even start the vehicle. The key fob comes with an electronic chip embedded that communicates with the car's onboard systems to regulate functions such as the starter.
A basic key fob is usually made of plastic and utilizes a standard lock-and-key mechanism, such as the type you'd find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob will cost anywhere between $50 to $100, however you'll be charged more if you require a replacement for one that has been damaged or lost.
If your car was manufactured within the last five years, the chances are that you'll need to go to the dealership for a replacement fob, as many newer vehicles require specialized equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or a key shop can usually do this for less, though.
The cost of your fob could depend on the type you own. Older vehicles use mechanical keys, whereas modern models usually come with transponder keys or smart keys. Key fobs of both kinds can be equipped with a range of features. They could include keyless entry which locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically or rolling codes that are updated frequently to stop 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 might not be compatible with your car. Some manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru, include security chips in their key fobs that prevent them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealerships can program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in but there's a good chance it won't continue to function.
You can get information on programming your key fob by looking up the website of the manufacturer or the owner's manual. You should try to do this yourself prior to paying for a locksmith or going to the dealer. You may also want to check your vehicle's warranty and auto-insurance policy to see if they cover the cost of a new key fob.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are found in most newer cars. The keys contain an embedded chip in the head that sends an electronic message to the vehicle once it is inserted in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and launching the engine. This key is more secure than a conventional flat metal key due to the transponder chip blocks the car from starting without the proper signal. This technology was designed to prevent theft of cars because it is nearly impossible to duplicate these keys without the proper equipment.
Many vehicles are also equipped with immobilizers that prevent the vehicle from starting if they are used with keys that are not transponder. However, thieves have also devised ways to steal and break into vehicles that have transponder keys.
A locksmith is usually able to help you replace the damaged or lost transponder key. They'll need the details about your specific vehicle, such as the VIN number as well as the model and year. They can then either program your current key to the car's 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 and Walmart can also be capable of cutting and re-copying a transponder key, but they might not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. You should contact an experienced and reputable locksmith firm to be sure that a professional will be capable of handling the job.
It was relatively easy to make a duplicate key for a car and hot-wire a car prior to the advent of this modern technology. This method of stealing cars was common and allowed criminals to get into and drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have greatly reduced the risk of this crime, but it isn't entirely eliminated it.
If you need a replacement transponder key or you have lost yours, the best choice is to contact an expert and let them make it for you. It's more expensive than a standard key, but it's a much safer and more reliable option to ensure that someone else will not be able to start your car.
Keyless Entry System
Car key fobs are becoming a standard feature in vehicles, as more and people are seeking convenience, safety, and security. They are able to open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, and even start the engine without a physical key. They can also endure a lot of abuse from being tossed around and they're more likely to get lost or stolen than traditional keys. It's costly to replace them, and you may require programming your new fob to connect it with your vehicle.
A basic key fob costs around ten dollars to get cut at an hardware store, but the most recent smart keys aren't cheap when you want to purchase the keys and have them programmed. Based on your car's make and model, you can expect to shell out between $200-$500 for a replacement fob and the cost of cutting it and programming it to your vehicle.
There are also more advanced car key systems that let you make use of your smartphone as a key. You can lock or unlock your car by using an app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, turn on your parking break, and perform other tasks based on the distance you're to your car. These are perfect for those who reside in urban areas, or if you have kids and are worried about them leaving the car unattended.
Certain of these systems are expensive however they're also more secure than a standard car key as they track your location and prevent you from accidentally locking the car or turning off the engine when you're far away. Certain of these systems can assist you in finding your car in a garage and others can notify you when you shut or open the doors.
These kinds of systems could also be useful for companies, such as property managers who manage office space or vacation rentals. These systems let them check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. They can also make sure that only those with permissions are permitted to enter and exit.
Dealership
Some people feel they must go to the dealer if keys are missing. They will need to show proof of ownership, and occasionally keys must be ordered from the manufacturer which could take several days. However, a dealer can usually get the job done for you faster than a locksmith, and they may have cheaper prices, too.
It is likely that the key fob will still require programming to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership, or by reading the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, as well as turning on and off lights and other electronic devices. It may also require pressing a number of buttons which act as codes. Often, this can be performed by the driver, but it is better to have a technician do it.
The cost can also be dependent on the year, make and model of vehicle. The cost of the service can also be affected by the year, model and model of the vehicle.
A dealer who sells particular brand of vehicle is more likely to know how to replace keys for that vehicle. Some of the bigger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan, have a large number of models, and are more acquainted with the keys that are used for the specific models.
Some brands are harder to work with. Some of the older brands that have been shut down or are so old that they no longer produce keys are listed. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. The keys are typically changed. This is more expensive and time-consuming than replacing the key.
It is recommended that you have your spare key cloned by a specialist rather than purchasing an entirely new one from the dealer. You will avoid paying higher rates for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys you are assured that the cloned one will work.