Car Keys Replacement Cost
In the past, losing your keys to your car wasn't a big deal. You could take your spare keys to an a key cutter and buy a new one for $10 or less.
However, the process has become more complicated and costly. Find out about the various kinds and costs for car keys.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob can be described as a remote control and key in one. It's a small, plastic device that houses a button or buttons that you press to unlock the doors and trunk, open the hatchback, open the windows, and perhaps start the car. The key fob comes with an electronic chip in it that communicates with the car's onboard systems to regulate functions like the starter.
A basic key fob is typically made of standard plastic and employs a lock-and key mechanism, such as the one you'd find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost between $50 to $100, however you'll pay more if you need to replace one that's lost or damaged.
If your car was manufactured within the last five years, the chances are that you'll need to visit the dealership to get a replacement fob since many modern cars require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith shop or key shop is usually able to do this for less.
The type of fob you're using can affect the price. Older vehicles have mechanical key fobs while the most recent models utilize transponder 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 are updated regularly to prevent thieves from stealing the data on the key fob.
Key fobs that are available online could be cheaper than those you can buy at the dealer, but they may not work on your car. Certain manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips inside their key fobs, which prevent them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob when it's brought in, but it's highly unlikely that it will work.
Read the owner's manual for your model or search the manufacturer's website for information on programming your specific model's key fob. You should try to do this yourself first before paying an expert locksmith or visiting the dealer. You can also look into the warranty on your vehicle and the auto-insurance policy to see whether they will cover the cost of replacing a key fob.
Transponder Key
Most modern cars utilize a type of key called a transponder key. These keys contain an embedded chip inside the key's head that sends a signal to the vehicle when it is inserted into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and launching the engine. This key is more secure than the traditional flat metal keys because the transponder chip prevents the car from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was created to reduce car theft as it is virtually impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the right equipment.
Many vehicles are also equipped with immobilizers which prevent the vehicle from starting when they are operated by a key that is not transponder. Car thieves have developed methods to steal vehicles with transponder key systems.
A locksmith can help you to replace your transponder keys if it's damaged or stolen. They will need the details of your vehicle including the VIN number and model. Then they will cut a new one or program the current one to the car's system. This process is a bit more expensive than having a car dealership cut and program a new key.
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 be sure that a professional can handle the task, you should seek out a reputable and experienced locksmith business.
It was quite simple to create a duplicate key for a car and then wire a vehicle prior to the advent of this modern technology. This was a method used to steal cars and it allowed criminals drive away with stolen vehicles. The introduction of transponder keys has drastically reduced this crime, but it is not completely eliminated.
You can contact an expert to handle this for you in the event that you require an extra transponder key or if you've lost one. It's more expensive than a standard key but it's a safer and more reliable option to ensure that someone else will not be able to start your car.
Keyless Entry System
As increasing numbers of people seek convenience, security and safety, car key fobs have become a common feature. These tiny transmitters can open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, and even start your engine without having to have a physical key in your hand. They can be thrown around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. remote control car key replacement to replace, and you could require fob programming in order to pair your new key with your vehicle.
A basic key fob will cost ten or so dollars to cut at a hardware store, but the most recent smart keys aren't cheap when you need to buy them and then have them programmed. You should expect to pay between $200 and $500 on an alternative key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed to fit in your car.
There are other more advanced car keys systems that let you make use of your smartphone as an actual key. Using the app on your smartphone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car, and you can also turn your lights on and off, activate your parking brake, and do other things based on the proximity of your car. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas or parents who are worried about your children leaving the car unsupervised.
Some of these systems are expensive however, they're more secure than a regular car key because they can monitor your location and stop you from locking the car or turning on the engine if you're too far away. Certain systems will help you locate your car in a garage, and others can notify you when you open or close the doors.
These systems can also be useful for businesses like property managers who manage offices or vacation rentals. These systems let them check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those who have permissions are permitted to enter and exit.
Dealership
Some people may think that they must go to the dealership when their keys are lost. They'll need to provide proof of ownership, and sometimes the key has to be ordered from the manufacturer which can take a few days. A dealer is usually able to complete the job faster than a locksmith and may even cost less.
It is likely that the key fob will still need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership, or by reading the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, and switching off or on lights and other electronic devices. It could even require pressing a series of buttons that act as codes. It is usually done by the driver, however, it is best to have a technician handle it.
The year, make and model of the car will impact the price as well. Modern cars come with sophisticated transponder chips which will require pairing with the car by a locksmith or dealer and the process could be more expensive.
A dealer who sells specific brand of vehicle is more likely to be able to replace the keys for the vehicle. Some of the bigger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan, have a large variety of models and are more familiar with the keys that are used for the specific models.
Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the more established brands that have been shut down or that are old enough that they no longer make keys are included. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are a few of the more established companies that have stopped producing keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. 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 specialist rather than purchasing a new one from the dealer. You can avoid paying the more expensive rates for after-hours or weekend services. Then, if you do lose your keys, you can rest easy knowing that the key cloned will work.