10 Things Everyone Gets Wrong About The Word "Car Keys Replacement Cost"
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 cutter and get the replacement key for $10 or less.
Nowadays, however, the process is more complicated and costly. Read on to learn about the various kinds of keys for cars and what they can cost you to replace them.
Basic Key Fob
Key fobs are a remote control and a key in one. It's a tiny plastic device that contains one or more buttons that you push to unlock the doors and trunk, open the hatchback, roll down the windows, and possibly start the car. The key fob is equipped with an electronic chip built in that communicates with the car's onboard systems to regulate functions such as the starter.
A basic key fob is typically constructed of plastic that uses a regular lock-and-key mechanism, like the one you'd find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob could cost anywhere from $50 to $100, but the real cost comes when you have to replace a lost or damaged one.
If your car was built within the last five years, chances are you'll need to visit the dealer for a replacement fob since many modern cars require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or key shop will usually be capable of doing this at a lower cost.
The type of fob you have can affect the price. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, while the latest models usually have transponder keys or smart keys. Both of these types can have a wide range of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle in a controlled manner to rolling codes that are updated regularly to prevent thieves from taking and using the key fob information of your car.
You might be able to buy an aftermarket key fob for less than what you'd pay at the dealership, but these may not work with your vehicle. Some manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from interacting with third-party devices. Some dealers can program an aftermarket key fob if it's purchased, but it's highly unlikely that it will work.
Read the owner's manual for your model or go to the manufacturer's site for more information on programming your specific model's key fob. It's worth trying to do this yourself before heading to the dealership or paying an expert locksmith to do it. You could also check your car's warranty, auto-insurance policy and roadside assistance policy to see if they will cover the cost of a replacement fob for your key.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are utilized in the majority of newer automobiles. The keys have an embedded chip inside the head of the key which transmits a signal the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and begin the engine. This key is more secure than a traditional flat metal key because the transponder chip stops a car from starting without the correct signal. This technology was designed to reduce car theft because it is almost impossible to duplicate these keys without the proper equipment.
Many cars are also fitted with immobilizers that stop them from being started when they are operated with a key that is not transponder. However, car criminals have also come up with ways to steal and break into cars with transponder keys.
A locksmith can help you repair your transponder key in the event that it's damaged or lost. They will need to have the details of your particular vehicle, including the VIN number, model and year. They will then either cut a new key or program the existing one to the car's system. official website is a more expensive process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.
Some automotive stores like AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and copy transponder keys but they aren't capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. It is best to call a reputable and experienced locksmith company if you want to be sure that a professional is competent to complete the task.
It was quite simple to create duplicate keys for a car and hot-wire a vehicle before the advent of this new technology. This method of stealing cars was very frequent and allowed criminals to gain entry and drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have greatly reduced the risk of this crime, but it isn't entirely eliminated it completely.
If you need a new transponder keys or you've lost yours, the best solution is to call an expert and have them do it for you. It will cost more than a standard key however it's a safer and more reliable alternative to ensure that someone else is unable to start your car.
Keyless Entry System
Car key fobs are becoming a standard feature of vehicles, as more and more people want convenience, safety, and security. These little transmitters can unlock doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, and even start your engine without needing to have a physical key in your hands. They can be tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. It's costly to replace keys, and you might have to program your new fob to pair it with your vehicle.
A basic key fob costs about ten dollars to get cut at a hardware store, but the most recent smart keys aren't cheap if you want to purchase them and then have them programmed. Based on your car's model and make, you can expect to pay between $200 to $500 for a replacement fob plus the cost of having it cut and programmed to your vehicle.
There are additionally more advanced car key systems that allow you to use your smartphone as a key. With the application on your smartphone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car and you can turn your lights on and off, activate your parking brake, and perform other things depending on the proximity of your car. They are perfect for people who reside in urban areas or even parents who are worried about your kids leaving the car without supervision.
Some of these systems can be expensive, but they are more secure than a regular car key. They keep track of your location to prevent you from accidentally locking or starting the car when you are too far away. They also can help you find your car in a parking garage, and some can warn you if the doors have been open or closed.
These kinds of systems could also be useful for businesses, such as property managers that oversee office space or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to monitor access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also make sure that only those with permissions are allowed in and out.
Dealership
Some people feel they must go to the dealer when their keys are missing. They'll have to show proof of ownership, and sometimes the key has to be ordered from the manufacturer which can take a few days. A dealer can usually do the job quicker than a locksmith and might even charge less.
The key fob could need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done either at the dealership or by consulting your owner's guide. It involves opening and closing doors, as well as switching off or on lights and other electronic devices. It could even involve pressing a combination of buttons that functions as the code. This is often handled by the drivers, however it's always better to let a technician manage it.
The cost is also affected by the year, model and year of vehicle. The cost of the service can be affected by the year, make and model of the vehicle.
A dealer who sells a particular brand of car will be more likely to have the knowledge to replace keys for the model. Some of the bigger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a huge variety of models and are more familiar with the keys that are used for the models they sell.
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 being produced. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. The keys are typically changed. This can be more expensive and difficult than replacing the key.
It is recommended that you get your spare key copied by a professional rather than getting an entirely new one from a dealer. So, you don't have to worry about paying the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. If you lose your keys, you can be assured that the cloned one will work.