Car Keys Replacement Cost
It wasn't long ago that losing car keys was not a problem. You could bring your spare key to a key cutter for a new one that cost less than $10.
Nowadays, however, the process is more complicated and expensive. Find out more about the various kinds of car keys and how they can cost you to replace them.
Basic Key Fob
Key fobs are a remote control and key in one. It's a small plastic device that contains buttons or buttons that you press to unlock the doors and open the trunk or hatchback, roll down the windows, and possibly start the car. The key fob is equipped with an electronic chip embedded that communicates with the car's onboard systems to control functions such as the starter.
Basic key fobs are constructed from plastic that is standard, and utilize a standard lock and key mechanism. They are the same as those found on old Pontiacs or Saturns. A basic key fob will cost anywhere between $50-$100, but you'll pay more if need to replace one that's lost or damaged.
If your car was manufactured in the last five years, the chances are you'll need to go to the dealership to get a replacement fob as many newer cars require special equipment to program and code new keys. Locksmiths or key shops will usually be able to do this for less however.
The cost of your fob could also depend on the type of fob you have. Older vehicles use mechanical keys, whereas the latest models usually have transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of key fobs can be equipped with a range of features. They could include keyless entry which locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically, or rolling codes that are changed frequently to keep thieves from stealing the information on the key fob.
You might be able to buy an aftermarket key fob online for less than the price you'd pay at the dealership however, they may not be compatible with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips that block their key fobs from interacting with third party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in however there's a high chance it won't continue to work.
You can get information on programming your key fob by looking up the website of the manufacturer or your owner's guide. It's worth trying this yourself before going to the dealership or paying an expert locksmith to do it. You can also check your vehicle's warranty and auto-insurance policy to see if they cover the cost of a new key fob.
Transponder Key
Most newer cars use keys that are known as a transponder key. They have an embedded chip inside the key's head that transmits a signal to the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and starting the engine. This key is more secure than the traditional flat metal key because the transponder chip prevents cars from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was designed to prevent theft of cars since it is almost impossible to duplicate these kinds of keys without the right equipment.
Additionally, many vehicles also have immobilizer systems that prevent them from starting when the key is not transponder-compatible. Car thieves have devised ways to steal cars equipped with transponder key systems.
A locksmith can help you replace your transponder key if it's damaged or stolen. They'll need the information about your specific vehicle, including the VIN number as well as the model and year. They'll either program your existing key to the car's computer system or cut a new one. This process is a bit more expensive than simply cutting a key from a dealership and program a replacement key.
Some auto stores such as AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and duplicate transponder keys however, they may not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. It is best to call an experienced and reliable locksmith company if you want to ensure that a professional is capable of handling the job.
Before the invention of this technology, it was relatively simple to create a duplicate car key and then hot wire a car. This was a method used to steal cars and it allowed criminals to drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced the risk of this crime, but it isn't entirely eliminated it.
If you require a new transponder key, or have lost yours, the best solution is to contact a professional and have them make it for you. It's more expensive than a standard one, however it's a safer and better alternative to ensure that someone else cannot start your car.
Keyless Entry System
Car key fobs are becoming a standard feature of vehicles as people are seeking convenience, security, and security. These tiny transmitters can open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, and even start your engine without needing the physical key in your hands. They are easily tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. It's expensive to replace keys, and you might need to program your new fob to pair it with your vehicle.
The cost of cutting a standard key fob at a hardware shop is around 10 dollars. However, the newest smart keys can be costly if you have to buy them, as well as program them. Based on the model and make you could expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $500 to replace a fob in addition to the cost of having it cut and programmed to your car.
Some advanced car key systems let you make use of your smartphone as an actual key. You can lock or unlock your car by using an app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn on and off your lights, turn on your parking break, and do other tasks depending on the distance you're to your car. This is ideal for people who reside in urban areas, or if you have children and are worried about your children being in the car without supervision.
Some of these systems could be expensive, but are more secure than the standard car key. They monitor your location to stop you from accidentally locking or starting the car if you're too far from. They can also help you locate your car inside garages that have parking spaces, and some can warn you when the doors are opened or closed.
These kinds of systems can also be beneficial for companies, such as property managers that oversee vacation rentals or office spaces. These systems are able to monitor the access rights for guests, cleaning staff, and maintenance personnel, while ensuring that only those who have the proper permissions can go in and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people might feel that they must go to the dealership when keys go missing. They'll need to provide proof of ownership, and sometimes the key must be ordered from the manufacturer, which could take several days. But a dealer can also generally complete the task for you quicker than locksmiths, and they may offer lower prices too.
It is likely that the key fob will still need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership, or by referring to the owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, and switching off and on lights and other electronic devices. It could even involve pressing a combination of buttons which acts as an electronic code. This is often handled by the drivers, however it's always better to let an expert take care of it.
The cost will also be dependent on the year, make and type of vehicle. G28CarKeys feature sophisticated transponder chips which will need to be paired with the car by a locksmith dealer, and the process can be more expensive.
A dealer who sells a specific model of car is more likely to know how to change keys for the model. Some of the bigger 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 been shut down or are so old that they no longer produce keys are listed. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. The keys are typically changed. This is more expensive and difficult than replacing the key.
If you have a spare key it is recommended to have it cloned at a specialist instead of getting an alternative from the dealer. You will not have to pay the higher rates for after-hours and weekend services. Then, if you do lose your keys, you can rest easy knowing that the cloned key will function.