Car Keys Replacement Cost
In the past, losing your keys to your car wasn't an issue. You could take your spare key to a key cutting shop for an alternative that cost less than $10.
Nevertheless the process has gotten more complex and expensive. Learn about the different types and costs of car keys.
Basic Key Fob
Key fobs are an electronic remote control and a key in one. It's a small, plastic device with a button that you can push to unlock doors, open the hatchback or trunk, open windows, roll them down, and possibly even start your car. The key fob also comes with a built-in electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard system to control functions like the starter.
Key fobs for basic use are typically constructed from plastic that is standard, and utilize a standard lock and key mechanism. These are the same as those found on old Pontiacs as well as Saturns. A basic key fob may cost anything from $50 to $100, but the real cost is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one.
You'll probably need to visit a dealer if the car is more than five years old. Most newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or a key shop can usually perform this task for less, however.
The type of fob you have can also impact the cost. Older vehicles use mechanical keys, whereas modern models usually come with transponder keys or smart keys. Both are able to have a range of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle instantly to rolling codes that change regularly to prevent thieves from taking and using the data from your key fob.
Online key fobs may be less expensive than the ones you can purchase from a dealer, but they may not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from working with third party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket key fob if it's brought in, however it's very likely that it won't work.
Read the owner's manual for your model or visit the manufacturer's website to find information on programming your specific model's key fob. Try to do this yourself before hiring an expert locksmith or visiting the dealer. You may also want to check your car's warranty and auto insurance policy to see whether they will cover the cost of a new key fob.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are found in most newer cars. These keys contain an embedded chip in the key's head that sends a signal to the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and start the engine. This key is more secure than a conventional flat metal key due to the transponder chip blocks the car from starting without the correct signal. This technology was developed to reduce car theft because it is almost impossible to duplicate these keys without the proper equipment.
In addition, many cars also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting if a non-transponder key is used. However, thieves have also devised methods to gain access and steal vehicles that have transponder keys.
A locksmith will usually be able to assist you in replacing a lost or damaged transponder key. They'll need the information about your specific vehicle, including the VIN number, model and year. Then they will either cut a new key or program the one they have to your car's security system. This procedure is more expensive than getting a car dealership to cut and program a new key.
Some auto stores, such as AutoZone and Walmart are also capable of cutting and re-copying the transponder key, however they may not be in a position to reprogram the chip inside the key. If you want to ensure that a professional can handle the task, you should seek out a reputable and experienced locksmith company.
It was fairly easy to make duplicate keys for a car and wire a vehicle prior to the advent of this new technology. This was a method used to steal cars, and it allowed criminals drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced this crime, but not entirely eliminated it completely.
You can contact a professional to do this for you if you need a replacement transponder key, or if you've lost yours. The cost will be more than a traditional key however it's a safer and better way to ensure that your vehicle is not able to be started by anyone else.
Keyless Entry System
Car key fobs are now an everyday feature in cars as more people want convenience, safety and security. These devices can open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, or start the engine without the physical key. They are easily tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. It's costly to replace them, and you may need to program your new fob to connect it with your vehicle.
A basic key fob will cost ten or so dollars to get cut at an hardware store, but the latest smart keys aren't cheap when you're looking to purchase the keys and have them programmed. It is possible to spend between $200 and $500 on the replacement key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed for your car.
Some advanced car key systems let you make use of your smartphone as an actual key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle remotely using the app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, turn on your parking break, and do other tasks based on the proximity to your car. These are perfect for those who reside in urban areas, or if you have kids and worry about them leaving the car unattended.
Certain of these systems are expensive, but they're also more secure than a regular car key because they can monitor your location and stop you from locking the car or turning the engine on when you're far away. They also can help you locate your car inside a parking garage, and some can warn you when the doors are opened or closed.
These kinds of systems could also be useful for companies, such as property managers who oversee vacation rentals or office spaces. These systems can allow them to monitor access rights of guests, cleaning staff, and maintenance workers, while making sure that only those with the appropriate permissions are allowed to get into and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people believe they need to go to the dealer when keys are missing. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership and request keys from the manufacturer. This could take a few days. A dealer will usually complete the job faster than a locksmith and might even charge less.
The key fob may still require programming for your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by reading the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, and turning off lights and other electronics on and off. auto car key replacement may even require pressing a number of buttons which act as a code. This is often handled by the drivers, but it's always better to let an expert handle it.
The year the model, make and year of the vehicle will have an impact on the price, too. Modern cars feature advanced transponder chips that need to be paired with the car by a locksmith dealer and the process may be more expensive.
A dealer who sells a specific brand of car will be more likely to know how to change keys for that model. Some of the larger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler, have many models and are familiar with the keys.
Other brands are more difficult to work with. This includes some of the more established firms that have been shut down or are old enough to have keys that are no longer being produced. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn, and Eagle. The keys are typically changed. This can be more expensive and time-consuming than replacing the key.
In general, if you have a spare key it is best to get it copied by a specialist rather than getting an alternative from the dealer. You will not have to pay the higher prices for after-hours and weekend services. If you do lose your keys you can rest easy knowing that the copied key will work.