Car Keys Replacement Cost
It wasn't too long ago that losing car keys was not a problem. You could bring your spare key to a key cutting shop for the replacement key for $10 or less.
Today, however the process is more complicated and costly. Read on to learn about the various types of car keys and how they'll cost you to replace them.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob can be described as an remote control as well as a key in one. It's a small, plastic piece with a button can be pushed to open doors or hatchbacks, open the trunk, lower windows and maybe even start the car. The key fob also has a built-in 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 are fitted with a standard lock and key mechanism. These are the same as those found on old Pontiacs or Saturns. A basic key fob costs between $50-$100, but you'll be charged more if you need to replace one that's lost or damaged.
You'll probably need to visit a dealer if your vehicle is older than five years old. Most newer vehicles require special equipment to code and programme new keys. Locksmiths or key shops can usually do this for less, though.
The type of fob you're using can also impact the cost. Older cars have mechanical key fobs, while modern models usually come with transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of key fobs can come with a range of features. They could include keyless entry, which locks and unlocks your car automatically, or rolling codes that change frequently to stop thieves from intercepting the data on the key fob.
Online key fobs may be less expensive than ones you can purchase from a dealer, but they might not work on your car. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from interfacing with third-party devices. Some dealers can program an aftermarket key fob when it's brought in, but it's very likely that it won't work.
You can get information on programming your key fob by visiting the site of the manufacturer or in the owner's manual. It's worth trying this yourself before going to the dealer or hiring a locksmith to do it. You can also look into your vehicle's warranty and auto-insurance policy to determine if they cover the cost of a brand new key fob.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are utilized in most newer cars. They have an embedded chip in the head of the key that transmits a signal to the vehicle when it is inserted into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and for starting the engine. This type of key is more secure than conventional flat metal keys due to transponder chips stop the car from starting if it fails to receive the right signal from the key. This technology was created to reduce car theft because it is nearly impossible to duplicate these keys without the proper equipment.
Additionally, many cars also come with immobilizer systems that stop them from starting if a non-transponder key is used. Car thieves have come up with ways to steal cars equipped with transponder key systems.
A locksmith can help you replace your transponder key if it is damaged or lost. They'll need the information about your specific vehicle, such as the VIN number, model and year. They will then either program your existing key to the car's system, or cut an entirely new one. This is a more costly process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.
Some stores for automotive like AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and duplicate transponder keys but they aren't capable of reprogramming chips in the key. It is recommended to contact an experienced and reliable locksmith service to ensure that a professional is capable of handling the job.
Before the invention of this technology it was fairly simple to create duplicate car keys and then hot wire a vehicle. This was a method used to steal cars and permitted criminals to steal stolen vehicles. The introduction of transponder keys has greatly reduced this activity but it's not completely eliminated.
You can get an expert to handle this for you if you need a replacement transponder key, or if you lost yours. It's more expensive than a standard key, but it's a much safer and better alternative to ensure that someone else is unable to start your car.
Keyless Entry System
As increasing numbers of people want convenience, safety and security key fobs for cars are now a standard feature. These tiny devices can unlock doors, activate the alarm that sounds a panic and open the trunk and even start your engine without needing the physical key in your hand. But car key replacements can also take quite a beating from being tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen than the metal keys. This means they're costly to replace, and you may require fob programming in order to pair your new one with your vehicle.
A basic key fob will cost about ten dollars to cut at a hardware store, but the most recent smart keys aren't cheap if you need to buy them and have them programmed. Based on your car's make and model you can expect to pay anywhere from $200-$500 for a replacement fob, and the cost of cutting it and programming it to your car.
Some advanced car key systems allow you to use your phone as an actual key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle by using an app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn on and off your lights, turn on your parking break, and perform other tasks depending on the distance you're to the vehicle. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas or if you have kids and are worried about children leaving the car unattended.
Certain of these systems are expensive however, they're more secure than a regular car key as they track your location and prevent you from accidentally locking the car or turning on the engine in case you're not close enough. Certain of these systems can assist you in finding your car in a garage and others can notify you when you open or close the doors.
These types of systems can also be useful for businesses, like property managers who manage office space or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to monitor access rights of guests, cleaning staff, and maintenance staff, as well as ensuring that only those with the right permissions can get into and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people feel they must go to the dealer when keys are missing. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership, and could purchase keys from the manufacturer. This could take a few days. A dealer is usually able to complete the job quicker than a locksmith, and might even charge less.
It is likely that the key fob will require programming to your vehicle. This can be done either at the dealership or by reading the owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors, as well as turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off. It could even require pressing a set of buttons that functions as an electronic code. This is often handled by the driver, but it's always better to let an expert take care of it.
The year the model, make and year of the vehicle will impact the price as well. Modern cars come with sophisticated transponder chips which will require pairing with the vehicle by a locksmith or dealer and the process may be more costly.
A dealer who sells a specific brand of car will be more likely to be able to replace keys for that model. Some of the larger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have several models and are familiar with keys.
Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the more established brands that have shut down or that are old enough that they no longer manufacture keys are included. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are some of the companies that are older and do not produce keys anymore. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. The keys are typically changed. This can be more expensive and complicated than replacing the key.
It is recommended that you have your spare key cloned by a specialist rather than buying an entirely new one from the dealer. So, you don't have to worry about having to pay for the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. If you lose your keys, you can be sure that the cloned one will work.