Car Keys Replacement Cost
A few years ago, losing your keys to your car wasn't an issue. You could take your spare to a key cutter and get an additional one for $10 or less.
However the process has gotten more complicated and costly. Learn more about the various kinds of keys for cars and what they can cost you to replace them.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob can be described as an electronic remote control and an actual key in one. It's a small plastic device that contains one or more buttons that you can push to unlock the doors and trunk, open the hatchback, lower the windows, and perhaps start the car. The key fob has a built-in electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard system to control functions such as the starter.
Key fobs for basic use are typically made from standard plastic, and are fitted with a standard lock and key mechanism. They are identical to those that were used on the old Pontiacs and Saturns. A basic key fob may cost anywhere from $50 to $100, but the true price is when you need to replace a lost or damaged one.
If your car was made within the last five years, the chances are you'll need to go to the dealership for a replacement fob, as many newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or key shop can usually do this for less, though.
The type of fob you have will also affect the price. Older cars use mechanical key fobs while the latest models use transponder keys. Key fobs of both kinds can come with a range of features. car key case replacement may include keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically or rolling codes that change frequently to keep thieves from stealing the data on your key fob.
Key fobs that are available online could be less expensive than the ones you can buy at the dealer, but they may not work on your car. Certain manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips that block their key fobs from interfacing with third-party devices. Some dealers can program an aftermarket key fob if it's brought in, but it's very likely that it won't work.
Read the owner's manual for your model or go to the manufacturer's site to find information on programming your specific model's key fob. It's worth trying to do this yourself before going to the dealership or paying an expert locksmith. You can also look at your car's warranty, roadside assistance and auto-insurance coverage to see if these will cover the cost of a replacement key fob.
Transponder Key
Most modern cars utilize keys of a different type, known as transponder keys. They have 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 for starting the engine. This key is more secure than a traditional flat metal key because the transponder chip blocks a car from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was developed to prevent theft of cars because it is almost impossible to duplicate these keys without the proper equipment.
Additionally, many cars also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting when the key is not transponder-compatible. car key case replacement have devised methods to steal vehicles with transponder key systems.
A locksmith can help you 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 will then cut a new one or program the current one to the car's system. This is a more costly procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys.
Some stores for automotive like AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and copy transponder keys, but they aren't capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. If you want to be sure that a professional will be able to handle the job, seek out a reputable and experienced locksmith company.
Before the advent 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 widespread and allowed criminals to enter and drive off with stolen vehicles. The introduction of transponder keys has greatly reduced this activity but it's not completely eliminated.
You can contact an expert to handle this for you if you need an extra transponder key or if you've lost one. It will cost more than a standard one, but it's a much safer and more reliable option to ensure that anyone else will not be able to start your car.
Keyless Entry System
As increasing numbers of people want convenience, safety and security, car key fobs are now a standard feature. These tiny devices can unlock doors, set off the panic alarm and open the trunk and even start your engine without needing the physical key in your hand. However, they also be subject to some abuse from being tossed around and they are more likely to be lost or stolen than metal keys. They're also expensive to replace, and you could require fob programming to connect the new key with your vehicle.
A basic key fob costs ten or so dollars to get cut at a hardware store, but the most recent smart keys aren't cheap when you need to buy them and have them programmed. Based on the model and make, you can expect to pay between $200 and $500 for a replacement fob, in addition to the cost of having it cut and programmed to your vehicle.
Some advanced car key systems allow you to use your smartphone as a key. You can lock or unlock your car remotely using the app on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, turn on your parking break, as well as perform other tasks based on the proximity to the vehicle. These apps are ideal for those who live in urban areas, or even parents who are worried about your kids leaving the car unattended.
Some of these systems are expensive however they're also more secure than a regular car key because they can locate you and prevent you from accidentally locking your car or turning off the engine when you're far away. They also can help you locate your car in garages that have parking spaces, and some can warn you when the doors are open or closed.
These systems are also useful for businesses like property managers who manage offices or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. They can also make sure that only those with permissions are allowed to enter and exit the premises.
Dealership
Some people believe that they should go to the dealer when their keys are missing. They will need to show proof of ownership, and sometimes keys must be purchased from the manufacturer, which can take a few days. A dealer is usually able to complete the job quicker than a locksmith and might even charge less.
It is likely that the key fob will require programming to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by referring to your owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors, and turning off lights and other electronics on and off. It could even require pressing a series of buttons that function as codes. This is often handled by the drivers, but it's best to let a technician manage it.
The cost can also be affected by the year, make and type of vehicle. The cost of the service may also be affected by the year, make and model of the vehicle.
A dealer who sells a specific brand of car will be more likely to have the knowledge to change keys for the model. Some of the biggest manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a huge number of models and are more familiar with the keys for the specific models.
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 in production. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn, and Eagle. The keys are typically modified. This can be more expensive and complicated than replacing the key.
It is recommended to have your spare key cloned by a professional instead of purchasing another one from a dealer. This way, you avoid having to pay for the higher after-hours or weekend rates. If you do lose your keys you can rest easy knowing that the cloned key will work.