Car Keys Replacement Cost
Not long ago, misplacing your car keys was not an issue. You could bring your spare to key cutters and purchase a new one for just $10 or less.
Today, however the process can be more complicated and expensive. Read on to learn about the various types of keys for cars and what they can cost you to replace them.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob can be described as a remote and key in one. It's a small plastic device that contains one or more buttons that you press to unlock the doors and trunk, open the hatchback, lower the windows, and perhaps start the car. The key fob has an embedded electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard system to manage functions such as the starter.
Basic key fobs are usually made of standard plastic and use a regular lock and key mechanism. They are similar to the ones found on old Pontiacs or Saturns. A basic key fob may cost between $50 and $100, but the actual price is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one.
You'll likely need to visit the dealer if your vehicle is newer than five years. Many newer cars require special equipment to code and programme new keys. my homepage or a key shop can usually perform this task for less, however.
The cost of your fob could depend on the type of fob you have. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, while latest models use transponder 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 stop thieves from intercepting the data on your key fob.
You may be able to buy an aftermarket key fob online for less than the price you'd pay at a dealership however, they may not work with your vehicle. Some manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips that block their key fobs from working with third-party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket key fob if it's purchased, but it's highly unlikely that it will work.
Check your owner's manual or go to the manufacturer's site for information about programming your particular model's key fob. It's worth trying this yourself before heading to the dealer or hiring an expert locksmith to do it. You can also look into your vehicle's warranty and auto-insurance policy to see whether they cover the cost of a brand new key fob.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are utilized in the majority of modern cars. The keys contain a chip embedded into the head which transmits a message to the vehicle once it is inserted in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and begin the engine. This key is more secure than the traditional flat metal keys because the transponder chip prevents cars from starting without the proper signal. This technology was created to prevent theft of cars since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the right equipment.
In addition, many cars also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting if the key is not transponder-compatible. Car thieves have come up with methods to steal vehicles with transponder key systems.
A locksmith can help replace your transponder key if it's damaged or lost. They will require details about your car like the VIN number and model. They will then either program your current key to the car's system, or cut new keys. This is a costlier procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys.
Some auto stores, such as AutoZone and Walmart can also be capable of cutting and copying the transponder keys, however they may not be able to reprogram the chip in the key. If you want to ensure that a professional will be able to handle the task, you should call a reputable and experienced locksmith company.
Before the advent of technology like this it was fairly simple to create duplicate car keys and then hot wire a car. This was a method used to steal cars and permitted criminals to steal stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have drastically reduced this crime, but not entirely eliminated it completely.
You can call an expert to handle this for you if you require an extra transponder key or if you lost yours. The cost will be more than a traditional key however it's a safer and more secure method to ensure that your vehicle is not able to be started by anyone else.
Keyless Entry System
As increasing numbers of people want convenience, safety and security keys for their cars have become a common feature. These tiny devices can unlock doors, set off the panic alarm, open the trunk, and even start your engine without needing the physical key in your hand. However, they also take some abuse from being used in a variety of ways, and are more likely to get lost or stolen than metal keys. They're also expensive to replace, and you might require fob programming to connect your new key with your vehicle.
A basic key fob will cost about ten dollars to cut at the hardware store, however the most recent smart keys aren't cheap if you're looking to purchase them and then have them programmed. It is possible to spend between $200 and $500 on a replacement key fob. This includes the cost to have it cut and programmed for your car.
Some sophisticated car key systems let you make use of your smartphone as an actual key. By using the app on your phone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car and you can turn your lights on and off, activate your parking brake, and do other things depending on the proximity of your car. These are perfect for those who live in urban areas or if you have children and are worried about them leaving the car unattended.
Certain of these systems are costly, but they're also more secure than a regular car key as they locate you and prevent you from accidentally locking the car or turning off the engine when you're far away. They can also help you find your car in parking garages and even alert you if the doors are shut or opened.
These kinds of systems could also be beneficial for businesses, such as property managers who manage office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to monitor access rights for guests as well as cleaning staff and maintenance personnel, while ensuring that only those who have the appropriate permissions are allowed to get in and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people feel they must go to the dealer when their keys are missing. The dealer will ask for proof of ownership and may request the key from the manufacturer. This could take several days. A dealer is usually able to complete the job faster than a locksmith, and could even cost less.
The key fob might require to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by consulting your owner's guide. It involves opening and closing doors, and switching off and on lights and other electronic devices. It can even involve pressing a combination of buttons that functions as the code. It is usually performed by the driver, but it is better to have a technician do it.
The year the car was manufactured, its model and make of the car will impact the price, too. Modern cars come with sophisticated transponder chips which will need to be paired with the car by a locksmith or dealer, and the process can be more expensive.
A dealer who sells particular brand of car is more likely to know how to replace the keys for the vehicle. Some of the biggest manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a wide number of models and are more familiar with the keys for those models.
Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have shut down or that are old enough that they no longer make keys are listed. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn, and Eagle. The keys are typically reprogrammed. This is more expensive and complicated than replacing the key.
It is recommended that you get your spare key copied by a specialist rather than purchasing another one from the dealer. This way, you avoid having to pay for the more expensive after-hours or weekend rates. If you lose your keys, you are assured that the duplicate will function.