Car Keys Replacement Cost Tools To Help You Manage Your Life Everyday
Car Keys Replacement Cost
In the past, losing your car keys was not a big deal. You could take your spare keys to an a key cutter and buy a new one for $10 or less.
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
A key fob is both a remote and key in one. It's a small, plastic device that houses one or more buttons that you push to unlock the doors and trunk, open the hatchback, lower 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 regulate functions such as the starter.
Basic key fobs are usually made of standard plastic and utilize a standard lock and key mechanism. They are identical to those found on old Pontiacs as well as Saturns. A basic key fob will cost anywhere between $50-$100, but you'll pay more if require a replacement for one that has been lost or damaged.
You'll likely need to visit a dealer if the car is older than five years old. Many newer cars require special equipment to code and programme new keys. A locksmith shop or key shop will typically be capable of doing this for less.
The kind of fob you own can also impact the cost. Older vehicles have mechanical key fobs while the modern models have transponder keys. Key fobs of both types can come with a variety of functions. They could include keyless entry which locks and unlocks your car automatically or rolling codes that change regularly to prevent thieves from stealing the information on your key fob.
It's possible to purchase an aftermarket key fob for less than what you'd pay at the dealer however they might not work 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 a second-hand key fob when it's purchased, but it's likely that it won't function.
You can find out more about programming your key fob by searching the manufacturer's site or the owner's manual. You should try to do this yourself first before paying a locksmith or going to the dealer. You can also look into your vehicle's warranty and auto-insurance policy to determine whether they cover the cost of a new key fob.
Transponder Key
Most newer cars use a type of key called a transponder key. They have a chip embedded in the key's head that sends a signal to the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and for starting the engine. This key is more secure than a traditional flat metal keys because the transponder chip prevents the car from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was created to stop car theft since it is nearly impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the proper equipment.
Additionally, many cars also have immobilizer systems that prevent them from starting if keys that are not transponder compatible are used. However, car thieves have also developed methods to gain access and steal vehicles that have transponder keys.
A locksmith can help repair your transponder key in the event that it's damaged or stolen. They will need to have the information about your specific vehicle, including the VIN number, model and year. They'll either program the key you have to the car's computer system or cut an entirely new one. This is a more costly process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.
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. If you want to be sure that a professional is able to complete the task, you should call a reputable and experienced locksmith service.
It was relatively easy to create duplicate keys for a car, and then wire a vehicle prior to the advent of this modern technology. This method of stealing vehicles was frequent and allowed criminals to get into and drive off with stolen vehicles. The advent of transponder keys has greatly reduced this activity but it's not completely eliminated.
You can contact a professional to do this for you in the event that you require an alternative transponder key or if you lost yours. It's more expensive than a standard one, but it's a much safer and more secure option to ensure that anyone else cannot start your car.
Keyless Entry System
As increasing numbers of people seek convenience, safety and security key fobs for cars have become a standard feature. They are able to open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, or start the engine without having an actual key. They are easily tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. It's expensive to replace them, and you may require programming your new fob to connect it with your vehicle.
A standard key fob can cost around ten dollars to get cut at a hardware store, but the most recent smart keys aren't cheap when you want to purchase them and have them programmed. You should expect to pay between $200 and $500 on the replacement key fob. This includes the cost to have it cut and programmed to fit in your car.
Certain advanced car key systems let you use your phone as keys. With the application on your phone, you can remote lock or unlock your car, and you can turn your lights on and off, as well as activate your parking brake, and perform other things based on your proximity to the car. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas, or have children and are worried about children leaving the car unattended.
Some of these systems can be expensive, but they are more secure than a regular car key. They track your location to prevent you from accidentally locking or starting the car if you're far from. Certain systems can help you locate your car in a garage, and others can alert you if you open or close the doors.
More Support are also beneficial for companies such as property managers who oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems permit them to check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those who have permissions are permitted to enter and exit.
Dealership
Some people believe they need to go to the dealer if their keys are missing. The dealer will request proof of ownership and order the key from the manufacturer. This could take several days. A dealer will usually complete the job quicker than a locksmith, and could even charge less.
It is likely that the key fob will still require programming to your vehicle. This can be done through the dealer or reading the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, as well as turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off. It could even require pressing a number of buttons which act as a code. Often, this can be performed by the driver but it is always better to have a technician handle it.
The year the car was manufactured, its model and make of the car will impact the price as well. Modern cars feature high-tech transponder chips that will need to be paired with the vehicle by a locksmith dealer and the process could be more expensive.
A dealer who sells a specific model will be more likely to be able to replace keys for the model. Some of the bigger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler, have many models and are familiar with the keys.
Certain brands are difficult to work with. This includes some of the more established firms that have been shut down or are old enough to have keys that are no longer in production. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. Typically, these types of keys have to be reprogrammed which is more complicated and costly than replacing the key itself.
It is best to get your spare key copied by a specialist rather than getting an entirely new one from the dealer. This way, you avoid having to pay the higher after-hours or weekend rates. Then, if you do lose your keys, you can rest assured that the key cloned will work.