Why Car Keys Replacement Cost Will Be Your Next Big Obsession?
Car Keys Replacement Cost
It wasn't that long ago that losing car keys was not a problem. You could bring your spare key to a key cutter for an alternative that cost less than $10.
Nevertheless, the process has become more complicated and costly. Read on to learn about the different types of keys for cars and how they'll cost you to replace.
Basic Key Fob
Key fobs are an remote control as well as key in one. It's a small, plastic device with a button that you can push to unlock doors, open the hatchback or trunk, open windows, roll them down and maybe even start the vehicle. The key fob has an electronic chip inside that communicates with the car's onboard system to control functions like the starter.
Basic key fobs are usually constructed from plastic that is standard, and utilize a standard lock and key mechanism. They're similar to the ones found on old Pontiacs as well as Saturns. A basic key fob costs between $50 and $100, but you'll be charged more if you need to replace one that's been damaged or lost.
If your car was built in the last five years, the chances are that you'll need to visit the dealership for a replacement fob, since many modern cars require special equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith or key shop typically can do this for less however.
The cost of your fob could also be affected by the type you have. Older cars have mechanical key fobs, while modern models usually come with transponder keys or smart keys. Key fobs of both types can come with a range of features. They could include keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically, or rolling codes that change regularly to prevent thieves from stealing the information on the key fob.
Key fobs that are available online could be cheaper than those you can buy at the dealer, but they might not work on your car. Some manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from interacting with third-party devices. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob when it's brought in, but it's very likely that it won't function.
Check your owner's manual or search the manufacturer's website for more information about programming your particular model's key fob. Try to do this yourself before hiring an expert locksmith or visiting the dealer. You could also check the warranty of your vehicle, the roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance coverage to see if these will cover the cost of a replacement fob for your key.
Transponder Key
Most newer cars use keys of a different type, known as a transponder key. The keys contain an embedded chip in the head that sends an electronic message to the vehicle once it is inserted in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and for starting the engine. This key is more secure than the conventional flat metal key due to the transponder chip blocks a car from starting without the proper signal. This technology was developed to reduce car theft as it is virtually impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the right equipment.
Many cars are also equipped with immobilizers that stop them from starting when they are operated with keys that are not transponder. Car thieves have devised methods to steal vehicles with transponder key systems.
A locksmith can help you repair your transponder key in the event that it's damaged or stolen. They'll need details of your vehicle like the VIN number and model. Then, they'll cut a new key or program the existing one to your car's system. This is a little more expensive than cutting a key from a dealership and program a new key.
Some stores for automotive 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 firm to be sure that a professional is capable of handling the job.
Before the invention of technology like this it was quite easy to make duplicate car keys and then hot wire a vehicle. This was a method used to steal cars and it allowed criminals to drive away with stolen vehicles. The advent of the transponder key has greatly reduced the likelihood of this happening but it's not completely eliminated.
You can contact an expert to handle this for you if you require an extra transponder key or if you've lost one. G28 Car Keys will be higher than a conventional key, but it is a much safer and better method to ensure that your car can't be started by anyone else.
Keyless Entry System
As increasing numbers of people want security, convenience, and safety keys for their cars have become a standard feature. They are able to open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, or even start the engine without having the physical key. However, they also take some abuse from being tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen than the metal keys. It's expensive to replace them, and you may require programming your new key to pair it with your vehicle.
A basic key fob costs about ten dollars to cut at the hardware store, however the latest smart keys can be expensive if you want to purchase them and have them programmed. It is possible to spend between $200 and $500 for the replacement key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed to fit in your car.
There are also more advanced car key systems that let you make use of your smartphone as a key. With the application on your phone, you can remote lock or unlock your car, and you can switch on and off, as well as activate your parking brake, and do other things depending 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 unattended.
Certain of these systems are costly, but they're also more secure than a regular car key because they can track your location and prevent you from locking the car or turning off the engine when you're far away. Some of these systems can assist you in finding your car in a garage, and others will notify you when you shut or open the doors.
These kinds of systems can also be useful for businesses, like property managers who manage office space or vacation rentals. These systems can allow them to monitor the access rights for guests, cleaning staff, and maintenance staff, as well as making sure that only those with the proper permissions can go in and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people believe they need to visit a dealer when keys are missing. They'll need to provide proof of ownership, and occasionally the key must be ordered from the manufacturer, which could take a few days. A dealer will usually complete the job faster than a locksmith, and may even charge less.
The key fob might require to be programmed for your vehicle. This can be done either at the dealer or by looking up the owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, and switching off or on lights and other electronic devices. It may even require pressing a number of buttons that act as an electronic code. Most of the time, this is performed by the driver, however, it is best to have a technician do it.
The cost is also dependent on the year, model and year of vehicle. Newer cars have sophisticated transponder chips which will need to be paired with the vehicle by a locksmith or a dealer, and the process can be more expensive.
A dealer that sells a specific model of car is more likely be able to replace the keys for that particular vehicle. Some of the biggest manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler, have many models and are familiar with the keys.
Some brands are harder to work with. Some of the more established brands that have been shut down or that are old enough that they no longer manufacture keys are included. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. These keys are usually reprogrammed. This can be more expensive and complicated than replacing the key.
If you have a spare key it is recommended to duplicate it at a specialist rather than getting an alternative from the dealer. That way you can avoid having to pay the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. If you lose your keys you can be sure that the cloned key will function.