Car Keys Replacement Cost
A few years ago, losing your car keys wasn't an issue. auto key replacement could bring your spare to an a key cutter and buy an additional one for $10 or less.
Nevertheless the process has gotten more complex and expensive. Find out about the various kinds and costs of keys for cars.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob is both a remote and key in one. It's tiny, plastic device equipped with a button which you can push to unlock doors or hatchbacks, open the trunk, open windows, roll them down and maybe even start your car. The key fob has an embedded electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard system to control functions such as the starter.
Basic key fobs are constructed from plastic that is standard, and utilize a standard lock and key mechanism. They're identical to those found on old Pontiacs or Saturns. A basic key fob will cost anywhere between $50 to $100, however you'll pay more if need to replace one that has been lost or damaged.
You'll probably need to visit a dealer if your car is more than five years old. Many newer cars require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or a key shop will usually be able to perform this task for less, though.
The kind of fob you own can affect the price. Older cars have mechanical key fobs, while the latest models usually have transponder keys or smart keys. Key fobs of both types can come with a variety of features. They may include keyless entry which locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically, or rolling codes that change regularly to prevent thieves from stealing the information on the key fob.
You may be able to purchase 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, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that prevent their key fobs from working with third party devices. Some dealerships will program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in, but there's a good chance it won't continue to work.
Read the owner's manual for your model or visit the manufacturer's website for information about programming your particular model's key fob. It is recommended to try this yourself before hiring a locksmith or going to the dealer. You could also check your vehicle's warranty, roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance coverage to determine if they cover the costs of a replacement fob for your key.
Transponder Key
Most newer cars use keys that are known as a transponder key. They have an embedded chip in the head of the key which transmits a signal the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and starting the engine. This key is more secure than a conventional flat metal key due to the transponder chip stops cars from starting without the correct signal. This technology was developed to prevent theft of cars since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the appropriate equipment.
Additionally, many vehicles also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting if keys that are not transponder compatible are used. Car thieves have devised ways to steal cars equipped with transponder key systems.
A locksmith can assist you to replace your transponder keys if it is damaged or lost. They will require details of your vehicle like the VIN number and model. They can then either program your current key to the car's system or cut a new one. This process is a bit more expensive than simply cutting a key from a dealership and program a replacement key.
Some auto stores such as AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and copy transponder keys, however, they may not be capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. If you want to ensure that a professional is able to complete the task, you should seek out a reputable and experienced locksmith company.
Before the invention of this technology, it was relatively simple to create a duplicate car key and then hot wire a vehicle. This technique was used to steal cars and allowed criminals drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have greatly reduced this crime, but it isn't entirely eliminated it.
You can contact a professional to do this for you if you require an extra transponder key or if you lost yours. It's more expensive than a standard one, however it's a safer and better alternative to ensure that someone else is unable to start your car.
Keyless Entry System
Car key fobs are becoming a standard feature in vehicles as people are seeking convenience, safety and security. These tiny devices can unlock doors, set off the panic alarm, open the trunk, and even start your engine without needing to have a physical key in your hand. However, they also endure some abuse from being tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen than metal keys. They're also expensive to replace, and you may require fob programming to connect the new key with your vehicle.
The cost of cutting a standard key fob at an hardware store is around ten dollars. However, the most recent smart keys can be costly if you have to buy them, as well as program them. You can expect to spend between $200 and $500 for the replacement key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed to fit in your car.
Some advanced car key systems allow you to make use of your smartphone as keys. You can lock or unlock your car via the app on your phone. You can also turn on and off your lights, turn on your parking break, as well as perform other tasks based on the proximity to your vehicle. These apps are ideal for those who live in urban areas or if you have kids and are worried about them leaving the car unattended.
Some of these systems are costly however they're also more secure than a standard car key since they track your location and prevent you from accidentally locking the car or turning the engine on if you're too far away. They also can help you locate your car inside a parking garage and even alert you if the doors have been shut or opened.
These systems are also beneficial for companies such as property managers who manage offices or vacation rentals. These systems are able to monitor access rights of guests cleaners, guests, and maintenance staff, as well as ensuring that only those with the right permissions can get in and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people may think that they must visit a dealership if their keys disappear. They'll have to show proof of ownership, and sometimes the key has to be ordered from the manufacturer which can take a few days. A dealer can usually do the job more quickly than a locksmith, and might even charge less.
The key fob may still need to be programmed for your car. This can be done either at the dealership or by consulting your owner's guide. It involves opening and shutting doors, as well as switching off or on lights and other electronic devices. It may also require pressing a number of buttons that function as codes. This is usually handled by the drivers, but it is always best to let an expert handle it.
The cost can also be dependent on the year, make and type of vehicle. Newer cars have advanced transponder chips that need to be paired with the vehicle by a locksmith or a dealer and the process could be more expensive.
A dealer who sells specific model of vehicle is more likely to know how to replace the keys for that vehicle. Some of the larger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a huge number of models and are more acquainted with the keys for the models they sell.
Some brands are harder to work with. Full Posting of the older brands that have been shut down or are so old that they no longer manufacture keys are included. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are some of the more established companies that do not produce keys anymore. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these keys require reprogramming, which can be more difficult and more expensive than replacing the key itself.
It is best to get your spare key copied by a professional instead of buying an entirely new one from a dealer. So, you don't have to worry about having to pay for the higher after-hours or weekend rates. If you lose your keys, you can rest easy knowing that the copied key will work.