Car Keys Replacement Cost
In the past, losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could bring your spare to key cutters and purchase a new one for $10 or less.
Nowadays, however, the process is more complex and costly. Learn about the different types and costs for car keys.
Basic Key Fob
Key fobs are an electronic remote control and a key in one. It's a small plastic device that contains one or more buttons that you press to unlock the doors, open the trunk or hatchback, roll down the windows, and possibly start the car. The key fob also comes with an electronic chip inside that communicates with the car's onboard system to control functions like the starter.
Basic key fobs are made of standard plastic and use a regular lock and key mechanism. These are similar to the ones found on old Pontiacs or Saturns. A basic key fob costs anywhere between $50-$100, but you'll be charged more if you need to replace one that has been lost or damaged.
If your car was manufactured within the past five years, chances that you'll have to go to the dealership for a replacement fob, as many newer vehicles require specialized equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith or key shop will usually be in a position to provide this service for less.
The kind of fob you own can also impact the cost. Older cars use mechanical keys, whereas modern models usually come with transponder keys or smart keys. Both can have a wide range of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the car instantly to changing codes on a regular basis to deter thieves from intercepting and stealing your car's key fob data.
It's possible to purchase an aftermarket key fob for less than the price you'd pay at a dealership however, they may not work with your car. Some manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from interacting 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 work.
Go through your owner's manual or go to the manufacturer's site for information on programming your specific model's key fob. It's worth trying to do this yourself before going to the dealer or hiring a locksmith to do it. You could also check the warranty of your vehicle, the roadside assistance and auto-insurance policy to see if they will cover the cost of a replacement key fob.
Transponder Key
Most newer cars use keys of a different type, known as a transponder key. They have a chip embedded in the key's head that transmits a signal to the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. The signal is used to unlock the car and start the engine. This type of key is more secure than standard flat metal keys due to transponder chips stop the car from starting if it doesn't receive a signal from the correct key. This technology was developed to stop car theft since it is virtually impossible to duplicate keys without the appropriate equipment.
In addition, many cars also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting if the key is not transponder-compatible. However, thieves have also developed methods to break into and steal cars that are equipped with transponder keys.
A locksmith will usually be able to assist you in replacing a lost or damaged transponder key. They will require details about your car including the VIN number and model. They will then either program your current key to the car's system, or cut an entirely new one. This is a little more expensive than simply cutting a key from a dealership and program a replacement key.
Some automotive stores like AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and copy transponder keys, but they aren't capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. It is recommended to contact a reputable and experienced locksmith firm to ensure that a professional is competent to complete the task.
Before the advent of technology like this it was quite simple to create duplicate car keys and then hot wire a vehicle. car key replacement near me was used to steal cars and permitted criminals to steal stolen vehicles. The advent of the transponder key has drastically reduced this crime however, it's not completely eliminated.
You can contact a professional to do this for you if you need an alternative transponder key or if you lost yours. The cost will be higher than a conventional key, however it's a safer and better method to ensure that your car cannot be started by someone else.
Keyless Entry System
As increasing numbers of people seek convenience, safety and security, car key fobs have become a standard feature. These devices can open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, or start the engine without having a physical key. They can be tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. It's costly to replace them, and you might require programming your new key to pair it with your vehicle.
The cost of cutting a standard key fob at a hardware shop is around 10 dollars. However, the most recent smart keys can be costly if you must purchase them, as well as program them. Depending on your vehicle make and model, you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 and $500 to replace a fob and the cost of cutting it and programming it to your car.
There are also more advanced car key systems that let you make use of your smartphone as a key. Using the app on your phone, you can remote lock or unlock your car, and you can also turn your lights on and off, activate your parking brake, and perform other things based on your proximity to the car. These apps are ideal for those who live in urban areas or if you have children and are worried about them leaving the car unattended.
Certain of these systems are costly however, they're more secure than a regular car key because they can locate you and prevent you from accidentally locking the car or turning on the engine in case you're not close enough. Some of these systems will help you locate your vehicle in a garage, while others can alert you if you shut or open the doors.
These systems are also useful for businesses such as property managers who oversee vacation rentals or offices. These systems allow them to check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those who have permissions are allowed to enter and exit the premises.
Dealership
Some people feel they must visit a dealer when keys are missing. The dealer will request proof of ownership and purchase keys from the manufacturer. This can take several days. But a dealer will generally complete the task for you faster than locksmiths, and they might have lower prices, too.
It is likely that the key fob will still need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done either through the dealer or looking up the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, and turning off the lights and other electronic devices on and off. It could even require pressing a series of buttons that act as codes. This is usually handled by the drivers, but it's always better to let an expert take care of it.
The year the model, make and year of the car will have an impact on the price as well. Modern cars feature advanced transponder chips that need to be paired with the vehicle by a locksmith dealer, and the process can be more expensive.
A dealer who sells a particular model of car is more likely to know how to replace keys for the model. Some of the bigger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a huge number of models, and are more familiar with the keys that are used for the models they sell.
Certain brands are difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have been shut down or are so old that they no longer manufacture keys are included. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are among the more established companies that no longer produce keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. These keys are usually reprogrammed. This is more expensive and complicated than replacing the key.
If you have a spare key, it is recommended to get it copied by a specialist instead of getting an alternative from the dealer. You will avoid paying higher rates for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys, you can be sure that the cloned key will function.