Car Keys Replacement Cost
In the past, losing your car keys was not an issue. You could bring your spare key to a key cutting shop for an alternative that cost $10 or less.
Nowadays, however, the process is more complicated and expensive. Read on to learn about the various types of keys for cars and how they will cost you to replace.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob is an electronic remote control and key in one. It's a small plastic device that houses buttons or buttons that you press to unlock the doors, open the trunk or hatchback, open the windows, and perhaps start the car. The key fob is equipped with an electronic chip in it that communicates with your car's onboard systems for controlling functions such as the starter.
Basic key fobs are usually made from 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 will cost anywhere between $50 and $100, but you'll pay more if you require a replacement for one that's been damaged or lost.
You'll likely need to visit the dealer if your car is older than five years old. Most newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or a key shop typically can do this for less, though.
The kind of fob you own will also affect the price. Older cars have mechanical keys, while the modern models have transponder keys. Both types of keys can have a wide range of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the vehicle instantly to rolling codes that are updated regularly to stop thieves from stealing and using the key fob information of your car.
Online key fobs may be less expensive than the ones you can purchase from a dealer, but they might not work with your vehicle. Some manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips that block their key fobs from interfacing with third party devices. Some dealers will 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 site of the manufacturer or in the owner's manual. It's a good idea to try this yourself before heading to the dealership or paying an expert locksmith. browse around these guys can also look into the warranty on your vehicle and the auto-insurance policy to see whether they will cover the cost of replacing a key fob.
Transponder Key
Most newer cars use a type of key called transponder keys. These keys contain an embedded chip inside the head of the key that sends a signal to the vehicle when it is put into 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 key because the transponder chip stops cars from starting without the proper signal. This technology was designed to prevent theft of cars since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the proper equipment.
Many cars are also fitted with immobilizers which prevent them from being started when they are operated by keys that do not have a transponder. Car thieves have developed methods of stealing cars with transponder key systems.
A locksmith can assist you replace your transponder key if it's damaged or stolen. They will need the information about your vehicle, such as the VIN number and model. Then they will either cut a new key or program the current one to the car's system. This is a costlier procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement key s.
Some auto stores such as AutoZone or Walmart can cut and duplicate transponder keys but they aren't capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. If you want to ensure that a professional can handle the job, contact an experienced and trusted locksmith business.
Before the advent of technology like this it was quite easy for someone to make duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a car. This method was used to steal cars, and it allowed criminals to drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced this crime, but it isn't entirely eliminated it completely.
If you need a replacement transponder key or you have lost yours, the best solution is to call a professional and have them do it for you. It will cost more than a standard key however it's a safer and more secure option to ensure that someone else will not be able to start your car.
Keyless Entry System
As more and more people demand convenience, security and safety key fobs for cars have become a common feature. These little transmitters can unlock doors, activate the alarm that sounds a panic and open the trunk and even start your engine without needing to have a physical key in your hand. They can be thrown around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. They're also expensive to replace, and you may require fob programming in order to pair your new one with your vehicle.
A standard key fob can cost ten or so dollars to get cut at an hardware store, but the latest smart keys aren't cheap when you need to buy them and have them programmed. Based on the model and make you could expect to shell out between $200 to $500 to replace a fob plus the cost of cutting it and programming it to your car.
Certain advanced car key systems let you make use of your smartphone as an actual key. You can lock or unlock your car remotely using the app on your smartphone. You can also turn on and off your lights, turn on your parking break, and do other tasks depending on the distance you're to your car. This is ideal for people who live in urban areas or have children and worry about your children being in the car without supervision.
Certain of these systems can be expensive however they're also more secure than a standard car key since they monitor your location and stop you from accidentally locking the car or turning on the engine in case you're not close enough. Certain of these systems can help you locate your vehicle in a garage, while others can alert you if you close or open the doors.
These kinds of systems could also be useful for companies, such as property managers who manage vacation rentals or office spaces. These systems can allow them to monitor access rights for guests cleaners, guests, and maintenance personnel, while making sure that only those with the right permissions can get into and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people believe they need to go to the dealer when their keys are missing. The dealer will request proof of ownership and may order the key from the manufacturer. This can take several days. A dealer is usually able to complete the job faster than a locksmith and might even charge less.
The key fob may still need to be programmed for your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by referring to your owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors and turning lights and other electronic components on and off. It could even require pressing a set of buttons that function as codes. This is often handled by the drivers, however it's best to let a technician manage it.
The cost can also be dependent on the year, model and year of vehicle. Modern cars feature advanced transponder chips that need to be paired with the car by a locksmith dealer and the process could be more expensive.
A dealer who sells particular brand of car is more likely to know how to replace keys for that vehicle. Some of the larger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a huge variety of models and are more familiar with the keys for those models.
Other brands are more difficult to work with. This includes a few of the older companies that have closed, or are old enough to have keys that are no longer in production. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn, and Eagle. Typically, these keys have to be reprogrammed which is more difficult and expensive than replacing the key itself.
If you have a spare key, it is usually best to duplicate it at a specialist rather than getting an exchange from the dealer. You will avoid paying higher prices for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys you can be sure that the cloned one will function.