Car Keys Replacement Cost: The History Of Car Keys Replacement Cost In 10 Milestones
Car Keys Replacement Cost
In the past, losing your car keys was not an issue. You could take your spare keys to an a key cutter and buy an additional one for $10 or less.
Nevertheless the process has become more complicated and costly. Learn more about the various kinds of keys for cars and what they will cost you to replace them.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob can be described as a remote and key in one. It's tiny, plastic device with a button that can be pushed to open doors, open the hatchback or trunk, open windows, roll them down and, possibly, even start the car. The key fob comes with an electronic chip in it that communicates with your car's onboard systems to regulate functions such as the starter.
A basic key fob is typically made of plastic and employs a lock-and key mechanism, such as the type you'd find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob costs anywhere between $50 to $100, however you'll be charged more if you require a replacement for one that has been damaged or lost.
If your car was made within the past five years, chances are that you'll need to visit the dealership to get a replacement fob as many newer vehicles require specialized equipment to program and code new keys. Locksmiths or key shops can usually perform this task for less, though.
The cost of your fob can also depend on the type you own. Older vehicles use mechanical key fobs, whereas the latest models usually have transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of keys come with a variety of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically to rolling codes that are updated regularly to deter thieves from intercepting and using the data from your key fob.
Key fobs that are available online could be less expensive than ones you can purchase from a dealer, but they might not work on your car. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that prevent their key fobs from working with third-party devices. Some dealerships will program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in but there's a good chance that it won't function.
You can find information about programming your key fob by looking up the site of the manufacturer or in the owner's manual. It is recommended to try this yourself before hiring an expert locksmith or visiting the dealer. You can also check your vehicle's warranty, auto-insurance policy and roadside assistance policy to see if they will cover the cost of a replacement key fob.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are found in the majority of modern cars. They have embedded chips in the head which transmits an electronic message to the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and starting the engine. This key is more secure than a traditional flat metal key because the transponder chip prevents the car from starting without the proper signal. This technology was designed to stop car theft since it is almost impossible to duplicate these keys without the right equipment.
Additionally, many cars also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting when a non-transponder key is used. However, criminals have also come up with ways to steal and break into cars with transponder keys.
A locksmith can usually assist you in replacing the damaged or lost transponder key. They will need to have the information about your specific vehicle, including the VIN number, model and year. They will then either program your current key to the car's system or cut new keys. This is a little more expensive than simply having a car dealership cut and program a replacement key.
Some stores for automotive, such as AutoZone and Walmart can also be capable of cutting and copying a transponder key, but they might not be capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. If you want to be sure that a professional is able to complete the job, contact an experienced and trusted locksmith service.
Before the invention of technology like this, it was relatively easy to make a duplicate car key and then hot wire a car. This technique was used to steal cars, and it permitted criminals to steal stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have drastically reduced this crime, but they haven't completely eliminated it completely.
If you need a replacement transponder keys or you've lost yours, the best solution is to contact an expert and have them do it for you. It's more expensive than a standard key, but it's a much safer and better option to ensure that anyone else cannot start your car.
Keyless Entry System
As increasing numbers of people want security, convenience, and safety keys for their cars are now a standard feature. These devices can open doors, trigger the panic alarm, open the trunk, and even start the engine without a physical key. They can also take a lot of abuse from being tossed around and they're more likely to get lost or stolen than metal keys. This means they're costly to replace, and you might need fob programming to pair the new key with your vehicle.
A basic key fob costs about ten dollars to get cut at the hardware store, however the most recent smart keys aren't cheap when you need to buy them and then have them programmed. Based on your car's model and make you could expect to pay anywhere from $200 and $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 smartphone as a key. With the application on your smartphone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car and you can switch your lights on and off, turn off your parking brake, and do other things based on your proximity to the car. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas, or even if you're a parent that's worried about your kids leaving the car unsupervised.
Some of these systems can be expensive however they're also more secure than a standard car key since they monitor your location and stop you from locking the car or turning the engine on when you're far away. They also can help you locate your car in parking garages and can even warn you if the doors are opened or closed.
These systems are also useful for businesses like property managers who manage vacation rentals or offices. These systems let them check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those with permissions are allowed to enter and exit the premises.
Dealership
Some people might feel that they have to go to the dealership when their keys are lost. They'll need to provide proof of ownership, and sometimes keys must be ordered from the manufacturer, which could take a few days. A dealer can usually do the job quicker than a locksmith, and could even charge less.
The key fob could require programming to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership, or by referring to the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors and turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off. It may even require pressing a set of buttons which act as a code. Most of the time, this is performed by the driver, but it is better to have a technician perform it.
cost of car key replacement is also dependent on the year, make and type of vehicle. The cost of the service could be affected by the year, make and model of the vehicle.
A dealer who sells specific brand of car is more likely know how to replace keys for that vehicle. Some of the biggest manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a wide number of models, and are more familiar with the keys for the models they sell.
Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the more established brands that have shut down or are old enough that they no longer produce keys are included. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are among the companies that are older and have stopped producing keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these types of keys need to be reprogrammed and can be more difficult and expensive than replacing the key itself.
It is recommended to have your spare key cloned by a specialist rather than buying an entirely new one from a dealer. That way you can avoid having to pay for the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. Then, if you lose your keys, you can rest assured that the copied key will function.