How Much Does a Replacement Key For Car Cost?
In the past, misplacing a car key was only an inconvenience. However, now, a mishap can cost you big bucks.
The cost of replacing a key on your vehicle depends on the year, make and model. The most straightforward key to replace is a basic metal one, which can be easily cut by a locksmith for automotive use.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob is a tiny piece of plastic that has the ability to do a number of things. It can unlock your vehicle, turn on the lights, or act as an alarm to stop theft. You can get a replacement fob from your local hardware store for less than $10. It can cost more if you need a fob that how.much is a replacement car key compatible with a more modern automobile.
It is possible to program your key fob differently according to the type. Some key fobs may require specialized computer software only available from an authorized dealer. Contact your dealer and provide them the VIN number of the vehicle to make you the right key. They will require proof of ownership, like the title or registration papers, or purchase documents.
A locksmith can sometimes make a key with no requirement of having your old one. This could save you money. However, they will still be required to charge you for their service. If you lost your keys in an area that is remote and you're in a remote area, the cost will be higher as they'll have to travel further.
You can try to save a few bucks by purchasing an aftermarket key fob online and having it programmable by your local mechanic or locksmith. To accomplish this, you'll need know the model and make of your vehicle, as well as some basic understanding of how key fobs work. Certain key fobs, like those from Audi and Subaru, will not work with aftermarket versions.
Another alternative is to purchase the Faraday Key Fob Pouch, that will shield your key fob from thieves by blocking their signal. This can help you avoid losing your keys or having them stolen, which could end up costing you more than the key fob itself would have been. This device is crucial for those who have a modern vehicle or truck with a key fob that has an advanced security system. It's a bit expensive, at about $160, but it's far less expensive than replacing your car keys.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys cost more to replace as compared to the standard keys. The keys have a chip which communicates with the vehicle to turn it off or lock the doors. The key needs to be programmed correctly to work. It is usually much cheaper to have the transponder key replaced by an auto locksmith than at the dealer.
Dealerships can also charge more to replace these keys as they have exclusive rights to make keys for their customers. You can save money by searching for locksmiths that specialize in your specific vehicle model. They will likely be able to both program your transponder chip and cut you the standard car key cover replacement key.
The chips were first introduced to cars in 1998. They were designed to decrease car thefts by stopping people from hot wiring a car keys replacements that doesn't have the correct key. The chips function by sending a message from the key to the car's ignition. The chip contains a digital serial code that authenticates the key and allows it to work. This prevents thieves from making fake keys and copying them.
Most modern cars come with chip keys as well as a traditional flat metal key that can open the door and operate the locks in the event of need. These two keys are usually separated and are utilized in times of need or as a backup.
A blank car key without transponder can be bought at an area hardware store such as Home Depot, Walmart or Lowe's for a relatively low cost. These keys will not start your vehicle however, they can be used to open your doors in case you are locked out. Some of these keys are even compatible with certain car immobilizer systems that stop your car from starting if key that is not compatible is used.
You can get new keys for your vehicle by calling an auto locksmith. You can find one on the internet or by calling a local locksmith service. Auto locksmiths are an ideal choice as they are typically 20% cheaper than dealerships for cars. They can also provide emergency service in situations such as being locked out of your car.
Keyless Entry Remote
With a key fob you can lock and start your car even if the metal key is not in the ignition. This style of key is most commonly found in contemporary European vehicles and is priced between $200 and $500 to replace. The rolling-code encryption prevents thieves from copying keys and stealing vehicles. Typically, these types keys must be replaced through an authorized dealer and are not able to be copied by hardware stores.
A traditional key fob, that uses a simple push button to unlock doors, will usually cost between $20 and $50 to replace. They are popular targets for thieves so it's important to have an extra mechanical key. Transponder keys that are newer are more expensive at between $100 and $150, but they provide additional security features that make them less likely to be stolen.
The most advanced kind of key fob is the smart key that is the size of the standard key and contains a metal key inside plastic that opens when a button is pushed. This kind of key is extremely difficult to steal, and is often bundled along with other premium features such as navigation systems or technology packages. Smart keys are priced between $250-$500.
Some of these more modern key fobs can be copied by hardware stores, whereas others need to be ordered through an authorized dealer. In general, it will be more expensive to get a smart key replaced because they require a sophisticated remote-entry procedure to be programmed to work with the vehicle.
The key fob itself can vary in price based on the manufacturer and design of the key. The majority of the time you'll be able to buy the replacement from the local auto parts shop for less than what you can get at a dealership. You may have to pay an additional fee to program the new key fob into your vehicle. This can be accomplished either by a dealer's service department or a locksmith.
Car Key Replacement
It's not a good feeling to lose your car keys. It not only prevents you from driving your car and makes it difficult to get around when you're stuck. There are some steps you can do to make the process more efficient and more affordable.
The most cost-effective and easiest alternative is to locate an auto locksmith in your area who specializes in car keys. A professional locksmith can change the old metal key fob within a matter of minutes. They can also design keys to replace older cars that use a traditional mechanical key without chip. You can also find discounted replacement keys for cars (you could try these out) online. However, you'll need to verify your vehicle's specifications and make sure that it works with the model that you own.
Some auto dealerships only have a key programming machine to program more advanced keys. You can try some of these devices at home, however you should seek out an expert if your car key is lost or if you would like to create an additional. The cost of a basic transponder key can range from $125 to $300.
Some dealers will replace keys for free if you have proof of ownership like your registration, title or insurance card. This is typically included in roadside assistance add-ons or a full bumper-to-bumper guarantee.
The majority of locksmiths for automotive use are able to repair car keys but may not have the equipment to program newer keys. If you can locate the car key an easy copy can be purchased for $10 or less at the local hardware store. The most difficult to duplicate are the newer fob style keys that unlock and open your doors with the button. The key fobs are equipped with an embedded microchip that needs to be paired to your vehicle in order to unlock and start the car. They can be reprogrammed by a locksmith for a higher fee, or you can try your luck at a dealership.