10 Car Keys Replacement Cost That Are Unexpected
Car Keys Replacement Cost
In the past, losing your car keys was not a big deal. You could bring your spare key to a key cutter for a new one that cost $10 or less.
Nevertheless, the process has become more complicated and costly. Learn about the various types and costs of car keys.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob can be described as a remote control and a key in one. It's a small, plastic device with a button that you can push to unlock doors and hatchbacks, open the trunk, lower windows and, possibly, even start the vehicle. The key fob also has an electronic chip inside that communicates with the car's onboard computer system to control functions such as the starter.
A basic key fob is typically made of plastic and utilizes a standard lock-and-key mechanism, like the one you'd find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost anywhere between $50-$100, but you'll pay more if you need to replace one that's lost or damaged.
You'll likely need to visit a dealer if your 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, though.
The kind of fob you own can also impact the cost. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, while the latest models usually have transponder keys or smart keys. Key fobs of both types can be equipped with a variety of functions. They could include keyless entry, which locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically, or rolling codes that change frequently to keep thieves from intercepting the data on your key fob.
Key fobs purchased online may be cheaper than those you can purchase from a dealer, but they may not be compatible with your car. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that prevent their key fobs from interacting with third-party devices. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob if it's brought in, however it's highly unlikely that it will function.
Go through your owner's manual or visit the manufacturer's website for information on programming your specific model's key fob. You should try to do this yourself first before paying for a locksmith or going to the dealer. You can also look at the warranty of your vehicle, the roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance coverage to see if these cover the costs of a replacement key fob.
Transponder Key
Most newer cars use keys that are known as a transponder key. The keys have an embedded chip inside the head of the key which transmits a signal the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. The signal is used to unlock the car and start the engine. This key is more secure than a 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 stop car theft since it is nearly impossible to duplicate these keys without the proper equipment.
Additionally, many vehicles also come with immobilizer systems that stop them from starting when a non-transponder key is used. However, car thieves have also devised ways to steal and break into cars with transponder keys.
automotive key replacement can usually help you replace a lost or damaged transponder key. They will need the information about your vehicle like the VIN number and model. Then, automotive car key replacement 'll either cut a new key or program the one they have to your car's system. This is a costlier procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys.
Some automotive stores like AutoZone or Walmart can cut and duplicate transponder keys but they aren't capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. If you want to ensure that a professional is able to complete the job, seek out a reputable and experienced locksmith business.
It was quite simple to make duplicate keys for a car and then hot-wire a vehicle before the advent of this new technology. This method was used to steal cars and permitted criminals to steal stolen vehicles. The introduction of the transponder key has drastically reduced this crime however, it's not completely eliminated.
If you need a replacement transponder keys or you've lost yours, the best choice is to contact an expert and have them do it for you. It's more expensive than a standard key but it's a safer and better option to ensure that someone else will not be able to start your car.
Keyless Entry System
As more and more people demand security, convenience, and safety key fobs for cars are now a standard feature. These little transmitters can unlock doors, set off the panic alarm and open the trunk and even start your car without having to have a physical key in your hands. But they can also be subject to some abuse from being tossed around and they are more likely to get lost or stolen than the metal keys. It's costly to replace them, and you might need to program your new fob to pair it with your vehicle.
The cost of cutting a basic key fob at a hardware shop is around ten dollars. However, the most recent smart keys can be costly if you must purchase them, as well as program them. Based on the model and make you could expect to pay between $200 to $500 for a replacement fob and the cost of cutting it and programming it to your vehicle.
There are additionally more advanced car key systems that let you make use of your smartphone as an actual key. With the application on your phone, you can remote lock or unlock your car, and you can turn your lights on and off, turn off your parking brake, and perform other things depending on your proximity to the car. This is ideal for people who reside in urban areas or if you have children and worry about them leaving the car unattended.
Some of these systems can be expensive however, they're more secure than a regular car key because they can monitor your location and stop you from accidentally locking the car or turning off the engine if you're too far away. They can also assist you to locate your car inside parking garages, and some can warn you if the doors have been opened or closed.
These types of systems can also be beneficial to businesses, such as property managers that oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to monitor the access rights for guests, cleaning staff, and maintenance personnel, while making sure that only those with the appropriate permissions are allowed to get into and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people feel they must visit a dealer when keys are missing. The dealer will ask for proof of ownership and may purchase keys from the manufacturer. This could take several days. A dealer can usually do the job more quickly than a locksmith and may even charge less.
It is likely that the key fob will still 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, and turning off the lights and other electronic devices on and off. It could even require pressing a set of buttons which acts as an electronic code. Most of the time, this is done by the driver, but it is always better to have a technician perform it.
The cost will also be affected by the year, make and type of vehicle. Modern cars come with high-tech transponder chips that will require pairing with the vehicle by a locksmith or dealer and the process could be more expensive.
A dealer who sells a specific brand of car is more likely be able to replace the keys for that vehicle. Some of the larger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a huge variety of models and are more familiar with the keys that are used for those models.
Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the more established brands that have shut down or that are old enough that they no longer make keys are listed. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are among 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 get your spare key copied by a professional instead of buying another one from a dealer. You can avoid paying the more expensive rates for after-hours or weekend services. Then, if you lose your keys, you can rest easy knowing that the cloned key will function.