Car Keys Replacement Cost
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys to cars was not a big issue. You could bring your spare to an a key cutter and buy a new one for just $10 or less.
However the process has gotten more complicated and costly. Find out more about the various types of keys for cars and what they'll cost you to replace them.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob can be described as an electronic remote control and key in one. It's a tiny plastic device that houses one or more buttons that you press to unlock the doors and open the trunk or hatchback, lower the windows and maybe even start the car. The key fob comes with an electronic chip embedded that communicates with your car's onboard systems to control functions such as the starter.
A basic key fob is usually made of standard plastic and utilizes a standard lock-and-key mechanism, like the kind you might find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob will cost anywhere between $50 to $100, however you'll be charged more if you need to replace one that's damaged or lost.
You'll likely need to visit a dealer if the car is older than five years old. Many newer cars require special equipment to code and program new keys. Locksmiths or key shops will usually be able to do this for less, though.
The type of fob you're using can also impact the cost. Older cars use mechanical keys, whereas the latest models usually have transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of key fobs are able to be fitted with a range of features. They can include keyless entry, which locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically or rolling codes that change frequently to keep thieves from stealing the data on your key fob.
Online key fobs may be cheaper than those you can buy at the dealer, but they might not be compatible with your car. Certain manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from working with third-party devices. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob, if it's brought in, but it's highly unlikely that it will work.
You can get information on programming your key fob by searching the site of the manufacturer or in the owner's guide. It's worth trying to do this yourself before going to the dealership or paying a locksmith to do it. You may also want to check your vehicle's warranty and auto-insurance policy to determine whether they cover the cost of a new key fob.
Transponder Key
The majority of newer cars have a type of key called a transponder key. They have a chip embedded in the head of the key that sends a signal to the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and for starting the engine. This key is more secure than a conventional flat metal key due to the transponder chip stops cars from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was developed to stop car theft since it is almost impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the appropriate equipment.
Many cars are also equipped with immobilizers that prevent the vehicle from starting when they are operated by keys that are not transponder. However, car criminals have also come up with methods to break into and steal cars with transponder keys.
A locksmith can help you repair your transponder key in the event that it's damaged or lost. They'll require the details of your particular vehicle, such as the VIN number, model and year. Then they will cut a new one or program the existing one to your car's system. This is a costlier process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.
Some automotive stores, like AutoZone and Walmart are also capable of cutting and re-copying the transponder key, however they might not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. You should contact an experienced and reputable locksmith firm to be sure that a professional will be competent to complete the task.
Before the advent of this technology, it was relatively easy to make duplicate car keys and then hot wire a vehicle. This method of stealing cars was very widespread and allowed criminals to enter and drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced this crime, but it isn't entirely eliminated it.
If you need a new transponder keys or you've lost yours, the best solution is to call a professional and have them do it for you. The cost will be more than a traditional key but it is a much safer and better method to ensure that your vehicle is not able to be started by anyone else.
Keyless Entry System
As more and more people demand convenience, security and safety key fobs for cars have become a standard feature. These tiny transmitters can open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, and even start your car without having to carry a physical key in your hands. But they can also be subject to some abuse from being used in a variety of ways, and they're more likely to be lost or stolen than the metal keys. It's expensive to replace them, and you might have to program your new fob to connect it with your vehicle.
The cost of cutting a standard key fob in a hardware store is about ten dollars. However, the newest smart keys can be expensive if you have to buy them, as well as program them. Based on your car's make and model you could expect to shell out between $200-$500 for a replacement fob, in addition to the cost of having it cut and programmed to your car.
Some advanced car key systems allow you to use your phone as an actual key. By using the app on your phone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car and you can switch on and off, activate your parking brake, and perform other things depending on the proximity of your car. These apps are ideal for those who live in urban areas or have children and worry about them leaving the car unattended.
replacement car keys of these systems are costly however they're also more secure than a standard car key because they can monitor your location and stop you from locking the car or turning on the engine when you're far away. Certain systems will help you locate your car in a garage, and others can alert you if you open or close the doors.
These kinds of systems could also be beneficial for companies, such as property managers who manage office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems are able to monitor access rights for guests, cleaning staff, and maintenance staff, as well as ensuring that only those who have the right permissions can get into and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people feel they must go to the dealer when keys are missing. The dealer will ask for proof of ownership, and could request the key from the manufacturer. This could take several days. But a dealer will typically complete the task for you quicker than locksmiths, and they might have lower prices, too.
It is likely that the key fob will require programming to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership, or by referring to the owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors, as well as turning lights and other electronics on and off. It could even require pressing a number of buttons that function as codes. Most of the time, this is done by the driver, but it is better to have a technician do it.
The year the model, make and year of the vehicle will impact the cost as well. Newer cars have advanced transponder chips that need to be paired with the car by a locksmith or dealer and the process may be more expensive.
A dealer who sells a particular brand of vehicle is more likely to know how to replace keys for that vehicle. Some of the larger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have a variety of models and are familiar with keys.
Certain brands are difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have closed or are so old that they no longer manufacture keys are listed. auto replacement key includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. These keys are usually modified. This can be more expensive and time-consuming than replacing the key.
In general, if you have a spare key, it is recommended to have it cloned at a specialist rather than getting a replacement from the dealer. You will not have to pay the higher rates for after-hours and weekend services. Then, if you lose your keys, you can rest assured that the key cloned will function.