Car Keys Replacement Cost
A few years ago, losing your car keys was not a big deal. You could bring your spare key to a key cutting shop for the replacement key for $10 or less.
Nevertheless the process has gotten more complicated and costly. Learn about the different types and costs of car keys.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob is both a remote and key in one. It's a small, plastic piece with a button that you can press to unlock doors and hatchbacks, open the trunk, roll down windows and, possibly, even start your car. The key fob comes with an electronic chip embedded that communicates with your car's onboard systems to regulate functions such as the starter.
A basic key fob is generally made of standard plastic and uses a regular lock-and-key mechanism, like the one you'd find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost anywhere from $50 to $100, but the actual cost is when you need to replace a lost or damaged one.
If your car was made in the last five years, chances are you'll need to visit the dealership to get a replacement fob as many newer cars require specialized equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or key shop will usually be able to do this at a lower cost.
The cost of your fob can depend on the type of fob you have. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, while modern models have transponder keys. Key fobs of both kinds can be equipped with a variety of functions. They may include keyless entry which locks and unlocks your car automatically or rolling codes that are updated frequently to stop thieves from intercepting the data on the key fob.
You may be able to buy an aftermarket key fob for less than what you'd pay at the dealer however they might not work with your car. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from interacting with third party devices. Some dealerships can program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in, but there's a good chance it won't continue to function.
Check your owner's manual or search the manufacturer's website to find information about programming your particular model's key fob. It's worth trying this yourself prior to going to the dealer or hiring an expert locksmith. You may also want to check your car's warranty and auto insurance policy to see whether they will cover the cost of replacing a key fob.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are utilized in most newer cars. They have an embedded chip in the head which transmits an information to the vehicle once it is placed in the ignition cylinder. The signal is used to unlock the car and start the engine. This key type is more secure than conventional flat metal keys since transponder chips stop the car from starting if it does not receive the right signal from the key. This technology was developed to prevent theft of cars since it is almost impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the appropriate equipment.
Additionally, many cars also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting when keys that are not transponder compatible are used. Car thieves have devised ways to steal cars equipped with transponder key systems.
A locksmith will usually be able to help you replace a lost or damaged transponder key. They will need the details of your vehicle like the VIN number and model. They'll either program your current key to the car's system or cut an entirely new one. This is a little more expensive than simply getting a car dealership to cut and program a replacement key.
Some auto stores, such as AutoZone and Walmart, are also capable of cutting and copying a transponder key, but they might not be in a position to reprogram the chip inside the key. You should contact an experienced and reputable locksmith firm to ensure that a professional is capable of handling the job.
Before the advent of this technology it was quite simple to create duplicate car keys and then hot wire a vehicle. This technique was used to steal cars, and it permitted criminals to steal stolen vehicles. The advent of the transponder key has greatly reduced the likelihood of this happening but it's not completely eliminated.
You can get an expert to do this for you if you require a replacement transponder key, or if you lost yours. It will cost more than a standard key, but it's a safer and more reliable alternative to ensure that someone else cannot start your car.
Keyless Entry System
As increasing numbers of people seek security, convenience, and safety, car key fobs have become a common feature. They can open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, and even start the engine without the physical key. But g28carkeys.co.uk can also be subject to a lot of abuse from being tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen than metal keys. It's expensive to replace keys, and you might require programming your new fob to connect it with your vehicle.
A basic key fob will cost ten or so dollars to cut at the hardware store, however the latest smart keys aren't cheap if you're looking to purchase them and then have them programmed. It is possible to spend between $200 and $500 on an alternative key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed to fit in your car.
Certain advanced car key systems let you use your phone as an actual key. By using the app on your phone, 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 your proximity to the car. They are perfect for people who reside in urban areas, or even if you're a parent that's worried about your children leaving the car unsupervised.
Some of these systems could be costly, but they are more secure than a standard car key. They monitor your location to stop you from locking or starting the car if you're too far away. They also can help you locate your car inside a parking garage and can even warn you if the doors have been opened or closed.
These types of systems can also be beneficial for businesses, like property managers that oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems are able to monitor access rights for guests cleaners, guests, and maintenance workers, while ensuring 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. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership and may order the key from the manufacturer. This could take a few days. A dealer will usually complete the job more quickly than a locksmith, and may even cost less.
The key fob may still require programming for your car. This can be done at the dealership or by referring to the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, and switching off or on lights and other electronic devices. It could also involve pressing a series of buttons which acts as a code. This can often be done by the drivers, but it's always better to let a technician take care of it.
The year the model, make and year of the car will have an impact on the price as well. Modern cars come with sophisticated transponder chips which will need to be paired with the car by a locksmith or dealer and the process may be more costly.
A dealer who sells a specific brand of car is more likely to know how to replace keys for that vehicle. Some of the bigger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a wide number of models and are more acquainted with the keys for those models.
Certain brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have been shut down or are so old that they no longer manufacture keys are included. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn, and Eagle. The keys are typically modified. This is more expensive and complicated than replacing the key.
It is recommended to get your spare key copied by a professional instead of purchasing a new one from the dealer. This way, you avoid having to pay the more expensive after-hours or weekend rates. If you do lose your keys you can rest assured that the copied key will work.