Car Keys Replacement Cost
Not long ago, misplacing your keys to your car wasn't an issue. You could bring your spare to key cutters and purchase a new one for just $10 or less.
Today, however, the process is more complicated and costly. Learn about the various types and costs of keys for cars.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob is an remote control as well as a key in one. It's a small, plastic piece with a button you can press to unlock doors and hatchbacks, open the trunk, open windows, roll them down, and possibly even start the car. The key fob has an electronic chip embedded that communicates with the car's onboard systems to regulate functions like the starter.
Key fobs for basic use are typically made of standard plastic and are fitted with a standard lock and key mechanism. They are similar to the ones found on old Pontiacs as well as Saturns. A basic key fob will cost anywhere between $50 and $100, but you'll be charged more if you require a replacement for one that's damaged or lost.
You'll likely have to visit a dealer if your car is older than five years old. car key barrel replacement of newer vehicles require special equipment to code and programme new keys. A locksmith or key shop will usually be capable of doing this for less.
The type of fob you have can also impact the cost. Older vehicles use mechanical key fobs, whereas the latest models usually have transponder keys or smart keys. Both of these types can have a wide range of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the vehicle in a controlled manner to changing codes on a regular basis to prevent thieves from taking and stealing the data from your key fob.
You might be able to purchase an aftermarket key fob online for less than the price you'd pay at the dealership, but these may not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips that prevent their key fobs from working with third party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket key fob when it's purchased, but it's very likely that it won't work.
Check your owner's manual or visit the manufacturer's website for more information on programming your specific model's key fob. You should try to do this yourself before hiring a locksmith or going to the dealer. You can also look at your vehicle's warranty, roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance coverage to determine if they cover the costs of a replacement fob for your key.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are found in most newer cars. They have an embedded chip in 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 begin the engine. This key is more secure than a traditional flat metal keys because the transponder chip prevents a car from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was created to reduce car theft because it is nearly impossible to duplicate keys without the appropriate equipment.
Many vehicles are also equipped with immobilizers which prevent them from starting when they are operated by keys that do not have a transponder. Car thieves have devised methods to steal vehicles with transponder key systems.
A locksmith can help you replace your transponder key if it is damaged or lost. They will need to have the details of your particular vehicle, including the VIN number, model and year. They can then either program the key you have to the car's system, or cut a new one. This is a costlier procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys.
Some auto stores such as AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and copy transponder keys, but they aren't capable of reprogramming chips in the key. If you want to be sure that a professional can handle the task, you should contact an experienced and trusted locksmith service.
Before the advent of technology like this, it was relatively easy for someone to make duplicate car keys and then hot wire a car. This method was used to steal cars, and it allowed criminals drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced this crime, but they haven't completely eliminated it completely.
You can call an expert to handle this for you if you need an alternative transponder key or if you've lost one. The cost will be higher than a traditional key but it's a safer and better way to ensure that your vehicle is not able to be started by anyone else.
Keyless Entry System
Car key fobs are becoming a standard feature of vehicles, as more and more people want convenience, security and security. These devices are able to open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, and even start the engine without having an actual key. But they can also be subject to some abuse from being tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen than traditional keys. It's expensive to replace them, and you may need to program your new key to pair it with your vehicle.
The cost of cutting a standard key fob in a hardware shop is around ten dollars. However, the latest smart keys can be costly if you must purchase them, as well as program them. It is possible to spend between $200 and $500 for an alternative key fob. This includes the cost to have it cut and programmed to fit in your car.
Some advanced car key systems allow you to use your smartphone as a key. Using the app on your phone, you can remote lock or unlock your car, and you can also switch your lights on and off, turn off your parking brake, and do other things depending on your proximity to the car. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas or parents who are worried about your children leaving 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 when you are far from. They can also help you locate your car in parking garages and even alert you if the doors have been open or closed.
These systems are also beneficial for businesses such as property managers who manage vacation rentals or offices. These systems can allow them to monitor the access rights of guests cleaners, guests, and maintenance workers, while making sure that only those with the proper permissions can go in and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people believe they need to go to the dealer when keys are missing. They will need to show proof of ownership, and occasionally keys must be purchased from the manufacturer, which can take a few days. But a dealer will generally complete the task for you much faster than locksmiths, and they may offer lower prices as well.
The key fob might require programming for your car. This can be done at the dealership, or by consulting your owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, and turning off lights and other electronics on and off. It can even involve pressing a series of buttons which acts as a code. This is often handled by the drivers, however it's always better to let a technician manage it.
The cost is also affected by the year, model and year of vehicle. Modern cars come with advanced transponder chips that require pairing with the car by a locksmith or a dealer, and the process can be more expensive.
A dealer who sells a specific brand of car will be more likely to have the knowledge to replace keys for that model. Some of the bigger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a wide number of models, and are more acquainted with the keys for those models.
Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the more established brands that have been shut down or are old enough that they no longer make keys are listed. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn, and Eagle. These keys are usually changed. This is more expensive and complicated than replacing the key.
It is best to have your spare key cloned by a professional rather than purchasing another one from the dealer. You will not have to pay the higher rates for after-hours and weekend services. If you do lose your keys you can rest assured that the copied key will function.