car key replacement Keys Replacement Cost
Not long ago, misplacing your car keys was not an issue. You could take your spare keys to a key cutter and get a new one for $10 or less.
Today, however, the process is more complicated and costly. Learn about the different types and costs of car keys.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob can be described as a remote car key replacement and key in one. It's a small, plastic piece equipped with a button which you can press to unlock doors or hatchbacks, open the trunk, roll down windows and, possibly, even start your car. The key fob has an embedded electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard system to manage functions such as the starter.
A basic key fob is usually made of standard plastic and utilizes a standard lock-and-key mechanism, such as the kind you might find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost between $50 and $100, but the actual cost comes when you have to replace a damaged or lost one.
If your car was built within the last five years, chances that you'll have to visit the dealer to get a replacement fob as many newer cars require special equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith or key shop is usually in a position to provide this service at a lower cost for car key replacement.
The type of fob you have can affect the price. Older cars have mechanical key fobs, while latest models use transponder keys. Both are able to have a range of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the car instantly to rolling codes that change regularly to deter thieves from intercepting and stealing the data from your key fob.
Online key fobs may be less expensive than the ones you can get from the dealer, but they may not work with your vehicle. Some manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips inside their key fobs that prevent them from working with third-party devices. Some dealerships can program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in however there's a high chance it won't continue to work.
You can find information about programming your key fob by searching the manufacturer's site or the owner's guide. It is recommended to try this yourself prior to paying an expert locksmith or visiting the dealer. You can also check your car's warranty, roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance policy to see if they will cover the cost of a replacement car keys with chips key fob.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are found in the majority of modern cars. The keys have a chip embedded in the key's head that sends a signal to the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. The signal how.much is a replacement car key (Technetbloggers explained in a blog post) 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 the car from starting without the proper signal. This technology was developed to prevent theft of cars because it is almost impossible to duplicate these keys without the right equipment.
Many cars are also equipped with immobilizers that stop them from starting when they are operated by keys that are not transponder. Car thieves have developed 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 will need the details about your car, such as the VIN number and model. They'll either program your existing key to the car's system or cut new keys. This is a more expensive procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys.
Some stores for automotive like AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and duplicate transponder keys but they aren't capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. If you want to ensure that a professional can handle the job, seek out a reputable and experienced locksmith company.
Before the invention of this technology it was fairly easy to make duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a car. This method of stealing vehicles was frequent and allowed criminals to enter and drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have greatly reduced the risk of this crime, but they haven't completely eliminated it completely.
You can contact a professional to do this for you if you require an extra transponder key or if you've lost car key replacement one. It will cost more than a standard key, but it's a much safer and more secure alternative to ensure that someone else is unable to start your car.
Keyless Entry System
As increasing numbers of people seek convenience, security and safety key fobs for cars have become a common feature. They can open doors, trigger the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, and even start the engine without the physical key. They are easily tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. It's expensive to replace them, and you might require programming your new fob to connect it with your vehicle.
A basic key fob will cost around ten dollars to get cut at the hardware store, however the latest smart keys aren't cheap when you want to purchase them and then have them programmed. It is possible to spend between $200 and $500 on a replacement key fob. This includes the cost to have it cut and programmed for your car.
Some advanced car key systems let you use your phone as a key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle by using an app on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, turn on your parking break, and perform other tasks depending on the distance you're to your car. They are perfect for people who reside in urban areas or even if you're a parent that's worried about your kids leaving the car unattended.
Some of these systems could be costly, but they are more secure than a standard car key. They monitor your location to stop you from locking or starting the car if you are too far away. Some of these systems will help you locate your car in a garage and others can notify you when you open or close the doors.
These kinds of systems could also be beneficial to companies, such as property managers who oversee vacation rentals or office spaces. These systems allow them to monitor the access rights of guests, cleaning staff, and maintenance personnel, while ensuring that only those with the appropriate permissions are allowed to get in and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people believe they need to go to the dealer when their keys are missing. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership and order keys from the manufacturer. This could take a few days. But a dealer can also usually get the job done for you faster than locksmiths, and they may have cheaper prices, as well.
The key fob may still need to be programmed for your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership 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 could also require pressing a set of buttons that acts like a code. This can often be done by the driver, but it is always best to let an expert handle it.
The cost will also be affected by the year, make and model of vehicle. Newer cars have sophisticated transponder chips which will require pairing with the vehicle by a locksmith or a dealer and the process could be more costly.
A dealer who sells specific brand of car is more likely to know how to replace keys for that particular vehicle. Some of the larger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have several models and are well-versed in the keys.
Other brands are more difficult to work with. This includes some of the more established companies that have closed, or are old enough to have keys that are no longer being produced. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are a few of the companies that are older and no longer produce keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these types of keys need to be reprogrammed which is more complicated and costly than replacing the key itself.
In general, if you have a spare key, it is usually best to get it copied by an expert instead of obtaining a replacement from the dealer. You will avoid paying more expensive rates for after-hours or weekend services. If you do lose your keys, you can rest assured that the copied key will function.