Car Keys Replacement Cost
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing keys to cars was not a problem. You could take your spare keys to a key cutter and get an additional one for $10 or less.
However the process has become more complicated and costly. Learn more about the different types of keys for cars and what they can cost you to replace them.
Basic Key Fob
Key fobs are an electronic remote control and a key in one. It's tiny, plastic device equipped with a button which can be pushed to open doors, open the hatchback or trunk, roll down windows and maybe even start the car. The key fob is equipped with an electronic chip in it that communicates with the car's onboard systems to regulate functions such as the starter.
Basic key fobs are constructed from plastic that is standard, and use a regular lock and key mechanism. They're similar to the ones found on old Pontiacs or Saturns. A basic key fob may cost anything from $50 to $100, but the actual price is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one.
If your car was built within the past five years, chances are that you'll need to visit the dealer for a replacement fob as many newer vehicles require specialized equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or a key shop will usually be able to do this for less.
The cost of your fob can depend on the type you own. Older vehicles have mechanical keys, while the modern models have transponder keys. Both are able to have a range of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically 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 a dealership however they might not work with your car. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from interfacing with third-party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket key fob if it's brought in, however it's highly unlikely that it will function.
Go through your owner's manual or go to the manufacturer's site to find information on programming your specific model's key fob. It is recommended to try this yourself before hiring an expert locksmith or visiting the dealer. You may also want to check your car's warranty and auto insurance policy to determine whether they cover the cost of a new key fob.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are utilized in most newer cars. auto key replacement contain an embedded chip inside the head of the key that sends a signal to the vehicle when it is inserted into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and for starting the engine. This type of key is more secure than standard flat metal keys because transponder chips stop the car from starting if it does not receive the right signal from the key. This technology was designed to stop car theft since it is nearly impossible to duplicate these kinds of keys without the right equipment.
Additionally, many cars also have immobilizer systems that prevent them from starting if the key is not transponder-compatible. Car thieves have devised methods to steal vehicles with transponder key systems.
A locksmith can assist you replace your transponder key if it's damaged or stolen. They will need to have the details about your specific vehicle, such as the VIN number, model and year. They will then cut a new key or program the current one to the car's system. This procedure is more expensive than getting a car dealership to cut and program a replacement key.
Some stores for automotive like AutoZone or Walmart can cut and copy transponder keys, but they aren't capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. If you want to ensure that a professional can handle the job, seek out a reputable and experienced locksmith service.
It was fairly easy to create duplicate keys for a car, and then hot-wire a car prior to the advent of this new technology. This method of stealing cars was widespread and allowed criminals to enter and drive off with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have greatly reduced this crime, but not 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. The cost will be higher than a traditional key but it is a much safer and better method to ensure that your vehicle is not able to be started by anyone else.
Keyless Entry System
As increasing numbers of people seek convenience, security and safety key fobs for 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 to carry a physical key in your hands. However, they also take a lot of abuse from being tossed around, and they're more likely to be lost or stolen than metal keys. It's expensive to replace them, and you might have to program your new fob to pair it with your vehicle.
The cost of cutting a basic key fob in a hardware shop is around ten dollars. However, the newest smart keys can be costly if you have to buy them as well as programme them. Based on your car's make and model you can expect to pay between $200 to $500 to replace a fob in addition to the cost of cutting it and programming it to your car.
There are additionally more advanced car key systems that allow you to make use of your smartphone as a key. Using the app on your phone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car and you can switch on and off, activate your parking brake, and perform other things based on the proximity of your car. These are perfect for those who reside in urban areas or if you have kids and worry about your children being in the car without supervision.
Certain of these systems may be expensive, but are more secure than a regular car key. They track your location to prevent you from locking or starting the car when you are too far away. They also can help you locate your car in parking garages and even alert you when the doors are opened or closed.
These types of systems can also be beneficial to companies, such as property managers who manage vacation rentals or office spaces. These systems can allow them to monitor access rights of guests, cleaning staff, and maintenance workers, while ensuring that only those who have the proper permissions can go into and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people may think that they must visit a dealership if their keys disappear. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership and may purchase the key from the manufacturer. This could take several days. But a dealer can also usually get the job done for you much faster than locksmiths, and may have cheaper prices, as well.
The key fob could require programming for your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by reading the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, as well as turning lights and other electronics on and off. It can even require pressing a set of buttons that functions as an electronic code. This is usually handled by the drivers, however it's always better to let an expert handle it.
The year, make and model of the vehicle will affect the cost as well. Modern cars feature advanced transponder chips that require pairing with the car by a locksmith or a dealer and the process could be more expensive.
A dealer that sells a certain brand of car will be more likely to have the knowledge to change keys for the model. Some of the larger 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. This includes some of the older companies that have shut down, or are old enough to have keys that are no longer in production. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are among the more established companies that no longer produce keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these keys require reprogramming which is more difficult and expensive than replacing the key itself.
It is recommended that you have your spare key cloned by a professional instead of purchasing another one from the dealer. So, you don't have to worry about paying the more expensive after-hours or weekend rates. If you lose your keys, you can be assured that the cloned key will work.