Car Keys Replacement Cost
A few years ago, losing your car keys was not an issue. You could take your spare key to a key cutter and get a new one that cost less than $10.
Today, however the process is more complex and expensive. Learn about the various types and costs of keys for cars.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob is an electronic remote control and key in one. It’s a tiny plastic device that houses buttons or buttons that you press to unlock the doors, open the trunk or hatchback, roll down the windows, and perhaps start the car. The key fob has an electronic chip inside that communicates with the car Key programming‘s onboard system to control functions such as the starter.
A basic key replacement car fob is usually made of plastic and employs a lock-and key mechanism, like the one you’d find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob could cost anywhere from $50 to $100, but the true cost is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one.
If your car was made in the past five years, chances are that you’ll need to visit the dealer for a replacement fob since many modern cars require specialized equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith shop or key shop will typically be able to do this for less.
The cost of your fob could also be affected by the type you have. Older cars have mechanical key fobs, while modern models usually come with transponder keys or smart keys. Key fobs of both kinds can come with a variety of features. They could include keyless entry that locks and unlocks your car automatically or rolling codes that are updated regularly to prevent thieves from intercepting the data on your key fob.
Key fobs that are available online could be cheaper than those you can buy at the dealer, but they might not work on your car. Some manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru, have security chips inside their key fobs that prevent them from working with third-party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in but there’s a good possibility that it won’t function.
You can get information on programming your key fob by visiting the site of the manufacturer or in the owner’s guide. It’s a good idea to try this yourself before heading to the dealer or hiring an expert locksmith. You may also want to check your vehicle’s warranty and auto-insurance policy to determine whether they cover the cost of a brand new key fob.
Transponder Key
Most newer cars use keys of a different type, known as transponder keys. These keys contain an embedded chip inside the head of the key that transmits a signal to the vehicle when it is put 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 a transponder chip prevents the car from starting if it does not receive an appropriate signal from the key. This technology was designed to reduce car theft because it is virtually impossible to duplicate keys without the appropriate equipment.
Many cars are also equipped with immobilizers that stop the vehicle from starting when they are operated by keys that are not transponder. Car thieves have come up with ways to steal cars equipped with transponder key systems.
A locksmith can help repair your transponder key in the event that it’s damaged or lost. They’ll require the details of your particular vehicle, including the VIN number, model and year. Then, they’ll cut a new one or program the one they have to your car’s security system. This process is a bit more expensive than getting a car dealership to cut and program a new key.
Some automotive stores like AutoZone or Walmart can cut and copy transponder keys but they aren’t capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. It is best to call an experienced and reliable locksmith service to ensure that a professional will be competent to complete the task.
Before the advent of technology like this it was fairly simple to create duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a vehicle. This method of stealing vehicles was frequent and allowed criminals to enter and drive off with stolen vehicles. The advent of the transponder key has greatly reduced this activity but it’s not completely eliminated.
If you need a new transponder keys or you’ve lost yours, the best choice is to call a professional and have them do it for you. It will cost more than a standard one, however it’s a safer and better option to ensure that anyone else is unable to start your car.
Keyless Entry System
Car key fobs are becoming a standard feature of vehicles as more people seek convenience, security, and security. These transmitters can open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, or start the engine without having the physical key. They are easily tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. They’re also expensive to replace, and you could require fob programming in order to pair the new key with your vehicle.
The cost of cutting a standard key fob at an hardware store is around 10 dollars. However, the newest smart keys can be costly when you need to purchase them and then program them. You should expect to pay between $200 and $500 on the replacement key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and Car Key Programming programmed to fit in your car.
There are additionally more advanced car key systems that allow you to make use of your smartphone as a key. With the application on your phone, you can remote 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 children and worry about them leaving the car unattended.
Some of these systems are costly however they’re also more secure than a regular car key because they can locate you and prevent you from accidentally locking your car or turning on the engine in case you’re not close enough. They also can help you find your car in a parking garage and even alert you when the doors are shut or opened.
These kinds of systems can also be useful for businesses, such as property managers who manage office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems are able to monitor the access rights of guests cleaners, guests, and maintenance workers, while ensuring that only those who have the right permissions can get into and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people might feel that they need to go to the dealership when their keys disappear. They’ll have to show proof of ownership, and occasionally keys must be ordered from the manufacturer which could take several days. But a dealer will usually get the job done for you faster than locksmiths, and they may offer lower prices as well.
The key fob may still require to be programmed for your car. This can be done either at the dealer 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 can even require pressing a set of buttons that acts like an electronic code. This is often handled by the driver, but it’s best to let an expert take care of it.
The cost is also dependent on the year, make and type of vehicle. Newer cars have advanced transponder chips that require pairing with the car by a locksmith dealer and the process may be more expensive.
A dealer who sells a particular brand of car is more likely know how to replace the keys for the vehicle. Some of the bigger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have several models and are well-versed in the keys.
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. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. The keys are typically modified. This can be more expensive and difficult than replacing the key.
It is recommended that you have your spare key cloned by a professional rather than buying an entirely new one from the dealer. That way you can avoid having to pay the more expensive after-hours or weekend rates. Then, if you do lose your keys you can rest easy knowing that the key cloned will function.