Car Keys Replacement Cost
A few years ago, losing your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could take your spare key to a key cutting shop for an alternative that cost less than $10.
Today, however, the process is more complex and costly. Find out about the various kinds and costs of car keys.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob is both an electronic remote and a key in one. It's a tiny plastic device that houses one or more buttons that you press to unlock the doors and trunk, open the hatchback, roll down the windows, and perhaps start the car. The key fob has an electronic chip inside that communicates with the car's onboard computer system to control functions like the starter.
Key fobs for basic use are typically made from standard plastic, and utilize a standard lock and key mechanism. They're the same as those that were used on the old Pontiacs and Saturns. A basic key fob may cost anywhere from $50 to $100, but the real cost is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one.
You'll likely need to visit the dealer if the car is more than five years old. Most newer vehicles require special equipment to code and programme new keys. A locksmith or a key shop can usually do this for less however.
The cost of your fob could depend on the type you have. Older cars use mechanical keys, while the latest models use transponder keys. Both types of keys are able to have a range of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle in a controlled manner to rolling codes that change regularly to stop thieves from stealing and stealing the data from your key fob.
You may be able to purchase an aftermarket key fob online for less than what you'd pay at the dealership however they might not work with your car. Some manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru, have security chips inside their key fobs, which prevent them from working with third-party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in, but there's a good chance that it won't work.
Read the owner's manual for your model or search the manufacturer's website for more information on programming your specific model's key fob. It is recommended to try this yourself prior to paying for a locksmith or going to the dealer. You can also check your vehicle's warranty, auto-insurance policy and roadside assistance coverage to determine if they cover the costs of a replacement fob for your key.
Transponder Key
The majority of newer cars have keys that are known as transponder keys. They have an embedded chip inside the key's head that transmits a signal to the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and launching the engine. This type of key is more secure than standard flat metal keys because transponder chips prevent the car from starting if it fails to receive a signal from the correct key. 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 equipped with immobilizers which prevent them from starting when they are operated with keys that are not transponder. Car thieves have developed methods of stealing cars with transponder key systems.
A locksmith can help repair your transponder key in the event that it's damaged or stolen. They'll need the details of your particular 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 computer system or cut new keys. This is a costlier procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys.
Some stores for automotive like AutoZone or Walmart can cut and duplicate transponder keys but they aren't capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. If you want to be sure that a professional can handle the job, call a reputable and experienced locksmith business.
Before the advent of technology like this it was quite easy to make duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a vehicle. This method of stealing cars was very frequent and allowed criminals to gain entry and drive away with stolen vehicles. The introduction of the transponder key has drastically reduced this crime however, it's not completely eliminated.
You can contact a professional to do this for you if you require an extra transponder key or if you've lost one. The cost will be higher than a conventional key, but it's a safer and better method to ensure that your car cannot be started by someone else.
Keyless Entry System
As more and more people demand convenience, safety and security keys for their cars have become a standard feature. These tiny transmitters can open doors, set off the alarm for panic, open the trunk, and even start your engine without needing to have a physical key in your hand. They are easily tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. It's expensive to replace them, and you might need to program your new fob to connect it with your vehicle.
The cost of cutting a standard fob for a key at an hardware store is around ten dollars. However, the latest smart keys can be expensive if you must purchase them and then program them. Based on the model and make, you can expect to shell out between $200 to $500 to replace a fob plus the cost of having it cut and programmed to your vehicle.
Certain advanced car key systems allow you to use your smartphone as an actual key. Using the app on your smartphone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car and you can also switch on and off, activate your parking brake, and do other things depending on your proximity to the car. This is ideal for people who live in urban areas or if you have kids and are worried about your children being in the car without supervision.
Certain of these systems may be expensive, but are more secure than the standard car key. They keep track of your location to prevent you from locking or starting the car if you are too far away. Certain systems can assist you in finding your vehicle in a garage, while others can notify you when you shut or open the doors.
These types of systems can also be beneficial to companies, such as property managers who oversee vacation rentals or office spaces. These systems let them monitor access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those with permissions are allowed in and out.
Dealership
Some people feel they must go to the dealer when their keys are missing. They'll need to provide proof of ownership, and sometimes keys must be ordered from the manufacturer, which could take several days. A dealer can usually do the job quicker than a locksmith, and may even cost less.
It is likely that the key fob will still need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done either at the dealership or by reading the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, and turning off the lights and other electronic devices on and off. It could even require pressing a series of buttons which act as an electronic code. This is usually handled by the driver, but it's always better to let a technician manage it.
The year the model, make and year of the vehicle will affect the cost as well. Modern cars feature high-tech transponder chips that will require pairing with the vehicle by a locksmith dealer and the process may be more expensive.
A dealer that sells a certain brand of car will be more likely to have the knowledge to replace keys for the model. our homepage of the larger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have a variety of models and are familiar with keys.
Certain brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have closed or that are old enough that they no longer produce keys are listed. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are among the older companies that have stopped producing keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these keys require reprogramming and can be more difficult and expensive than replacing the key itself.
In car replacement key , if you have a spare key, it is recommended to duplicate it at a specialist instead of getting an exchange from the dealer. You will avoid paying more expensive rates for after-hours or weekend services. Then, if you lose your keys, you can rest easy knowing that the cloned key will work.