Car Keys Replacement Cost
A few years ago, losing your car keys wasn’t an issue. You could take your spare to an a key cutter and duplicate car keys buy a new one for $10 or less.
Today, however the process is more complicated and expensive. Find out about the various kinds and costs for keys for cars.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob is both a remote and key in one. It’s a small plastic device that houses buttons or buttons that you press to unlock the doors and open the trunk or hatchback, open the windows, and perhaps start the car. The key fob has an electronic chip embedded that communicates with the car’s onboard systems to control functions such as the starter.
A basic key fob is usually constructed of plastic that utilizes a standard lock-and-key mechanism, such as the one you’d find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob will cost between $50 and $100, but you’ll be charged more if you need to replace one that has been damaged or lost.
You’ll likely have to visit a dealer if your vehicle is newer than five years. Many newer cars require special equipment to code and programme new keys. A locksmith or a key shop can usually do this for less though.
The cost of your fob could also be affected by the type you have. Older vehicles have mechanical key fobs, while modern models have transponder keys. Key fobs of both types can come with a variety of functions. They may include keyless entry which locks and unlocks your car automatically or rolling codes that are updated regularly to prevent thieves from stealing the data on the key fob.
Key fobs purchased online may be cheaper than those you can purchase from a dealer, but they might not be compatible with your car. Some manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips that prevent their key fobs from interfacing with third-party devices. Some dealerships will program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in, but there’s a good possibility that it won’t function.
Check your owner’s manual or visit the manufacturer’s website for information about programming your particular model’s key fob. Try to do this yourself first before paying a locksmith or going to the dealer. You could also check your vehicle’s warranty, roadside assistance policy, duplicate car keys and auto-insurance coverage to determine if they will cover the cost of a replacement fob for your key.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are found in the majority of modern cars. These keys contain an embedded chip inside the key’s head which transmits a signal the vehicle when it is inserted into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and starting the engine. This key is more secure than the traditional flat metal key because the transponder chip blocks a car from starting without the proper signal. This technology was developed to prevent theft of cars because it is nearly impossible to duplicate keys without the appropriate equipment.
Additionally, many vehicles also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting when the key is not transponder-compatible. Car thieves have devised ways to steal cars equipped with transponder key systems.
A locksmith will usually be able to assist you in replacing a lost or damaged transponder key. They’ll require the information about your specific vehicle, including the VIN number as well as the model and year. They can then either program the key you have to the car’s computer system or cut new keys. This is a more costly process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.
Some automotive stores, like AutoZone and Walmart are also able to cut and copy a transponder key, but they may not be able to reprogram the chip in the key. You should contact a reputable and experienced locksmith service to ensure that a professional will be capable of handling the job.
Before the advent of technology like this it was fairly easy for someone to make duplicate car keys and then hot wire a car. This method of stealing vehicles was widespread and allowed criminals to get into and drive away with stolen vehicles. The advent of the transponder key has drastically reduced this crime however, it’s not completely eliminated.
If you need a new transponder key, or have lost yours, the best choice is to call an expert and have them create it for you. The cost will be more than a standard key, however it’s a safer and better way to ensure that your vehicle can’t be started by anyone else.
Keyless Entry System
Car key fobs are becoming a standard feature of vehicles, as more and people are seeking convenience, security and security. These devices are able to open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, or start the engine without a physical key. They are easily tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. It’s expensive to replace them, and you may require programming your new fob to connect it with your vehicle.
A standard key fob can cost around ten dollars to cut at a hardware store, but the latest smart keys aren’t cheap if you want to purchase them and then have them programmed. Based on your car’s model and make you could expect to pay between $200 and $500 for a replacement fob, in addition to the cost of having it cut and programmed to your car.
Some advanced car key car replacement systems let you make use of your smartphone as a key. You can lock or unlock your car via the app on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, turn on your parking break, and perform other things based on how close you are to your car. They are perfect for people who reside in urban areas or if you’re a parent that’s concerned about your children leaving the car unsupervised.
Some of these systems are costly however, they’re more secure than a regular car key since they track your location and prevent you from accidentally locking your car or turning off the engine if you’re too far away. They can also assist you to find your car in garages that have parking spaces and even alert you when the doors are shut or opened.
These kinds of systems can also be useful for businesses, like property managers who manage office space or vacation rentals. These systems permit them to check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those who have permissions are permitted to enter and exit.
Dealership
Some people might feel that they have to visit a dealership if their keys disappear. The dealer will ask for proof of ownership, and could order keys from the manufacturer. This could take several days. However, a dealer can usually get the job done for you faster than locksmiths, and they might have lower prices, too.
The key fob might need to be programmed for your vehicle. This can be done at the dealer or by reading the owner’s manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, as well as switching off or on lights and other electronic devices. It can even involve pressing a combination of buttons that functions as a code. This can often be done by the drivers, however it is always best to let a technician take care of it.
The cost is also affected by the year, make and model of vehicle. Modern cars come with sophisticated transponder chips which will need to be paired with the car by a locksmith or dealer and the process may be more expensive.
A dealer that sells a specific brand of vehicle is more likely to know how to replace keys for the vehicle. Some of the biggest manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have several models and are familiar with the keys.
Other brands are more difficult to work with. This includes some of the older companies that have closed, or are old enough to have keys that are no longer being produced. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are some of the older companies that have stopped producing keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these keys have to be reprogrammed, which can be more complicated and costly than replacing the key itself.
If you have a spare key, it is recommended to have it cloned at an expert instead of obtaining an alternative from the dealer. You will avoid paying more expensive rates for after-hours or weekend services. If you lose your keys, you are assured that the duplicate will function.