Car Keys Replacement Cost
A few years ago, losing your keys to your car wasn't a big deal. You could take your spare to key cutters and purchase an additional one for $10 or less.
Today, however, the process can be more complicated and costly. Learn about the different types and costs of keys for cars.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob is both an electronic remote and a key in one. It's a small plastic device that houses a button or buttons that you can push to unlock the doors, open the trunk or hatchback, lower the windows and maybe even start the car. The key fob is equipped with an electronic chip in it that communicates with your car's onboard systems to regulate functions like the starter.
Basic key fobs are constructed from plastic that is standard, and are fitted with a standard lock and key mechanism. They're identical to those that were used on the old Pontiacs and Saturns. A basic key fob could cost between $50 and $100, but the real price is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one.
If your car was built in the past five years, chances that you'll have to visit the dealer to get a replacement fob as many newer cars require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or a key shop is usually able to do this at a lower cost.
The kind of fob you own can also impact the cost. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, whereas modern models usually come with transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of keys come with a variety of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the vehicle automatically to rolling codes that are updated regularly to deter thieves from intercepting and using the data from your key fob.
Online key fobs may be cheaper than those you can buy at the dealer, but they may not work with your vehicle. Some manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru include security chips in their key fobs that block them from working with third-party devices. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob, if it's brought in, but it's highly unlikely that it will function.
You can find information about programming your key fob by searching the site of the manufacturer or in your owner's guide. It's a good idea to try this yourself prior to going to the dealer or hiring an expert locksmith to do it. You could also check your car's warranty, auto-insurance policy and roadside assistance policy to see if they will cover the cost of a replacement key fob.
Transponder Key
The majority of newer cars have keys of a different type, known as transponder keys. These keys have an embedded chip in the head that sends an information to the vehicle once it is inserted in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and launching the engine. This key is more secure than the traditional flat metal key because the transponder chip prevents a car from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was created to prevent theft of cars since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the right equipment.
key car replacement are also fitted with immobilizers which prevent the vehicle from starting if they are used with keys that do not have a transponder. However, thieves have also devised methods to break into and steal vehicles that have transponder keys.
A locksmith can help repair your transponder key in the event that it is damaged or lost. They'll need the details of your particular vehicle, such as the VIN number, model and year. They can then either program the key you have to the car's system, or cut a new one. This procedure is more expensive than getting a car dealership to cut and program a replacement key.
Some automotive stores, like AutoZone and Walmart are also able to cut and copy the transponder key, however they may not be able to reprogram the chip inside the key. If you want to ensure that a professional can handle the job, call a reputable and experienced locksmith company.
Before the advent of this technology it was quite easy to make duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a car. This method of stealing cars was common and allowed criminals to enter and drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced the risk of this crime, but they haven't completely eliminated it.
If you require a new transponder keys or you've lost yours, the best option is to call a professional and have them do it for you. It's more expensive than a standard one, but it's a safer and better option to ensure that someone else will not be able to start your car.
Keyless Entry System
As more and more people demand convenience, security and safety key fobs for cars have become a common feature. They can open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, or even start the engine without having the physical key. They are easily tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. They're also expensive to replace, and you could require fob programming in order to pair your new key with your vehicle.
A standard key fob can cost ten or so dollars to get cut at the hardware store, however the latest smart keys aren't cheap when you want to purchase them and have them programmed. You should expect to pay between $200 and $500 for an alternative key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed for your vehicle.
Some sophisticated car key systems allow you to use your smartphone as an actual key. Using the app on your phone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car and you can also switch your lights on and off, as well as activate your parking brake, and do other things based on the proximity of your car. These are perfect 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 keep track of your location to prevent you from accidentally locking or starting the car when you are too far from. Some of these systems can assist you in finding your car in a garage and others can alert you if you close or open the doors.
These kinds of systems could also be beneficial to companies, such as property managers that oversee office space or vacation rentals. These systems let them check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those with permissions are allowed in and out.
Dealership
Some people feel they must visit a dealer when keys are missing. They'll need to provide proof of ownership, and sometimes the key must be purchased from the manufacturer, which can take a few days. But a dealer can also usually get the job done for you faster than locksmiths, and might have lower prices, too.
It is likely that the key fob will still require programming to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by consulting your owner's guide. It involves closing and opening doors and turning lights and other electronics on and off. It may also require pressing a series of buttons that act as codes. This is usually handled by the drivers, but it is always best to let a technician manage it.
The year, make and model of the vehicle will impact the price, too. Modern cars come with sophisticated transponder chips which will require pairing with the vehicle by a locksmith or a dealer and the process could be more costly.
A dealer who sells a specific model of vehicle is more likely to know how to replace keys for that vehicle. Some of the larger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have several models and are well-versed in the keys.
Certain brands are difficult to work with. Some of the more established brands that have closed or that are old enough that they no longer make keys are included. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are a few of the more established companies that have stopped producing keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these keys need to be reprogrammed and can be more complicated and costly than replacing the key itself.
If you have a spare key, it is recommended to have it cloned at a specialist rather than getting a replacement from the dealer. That way you can avoid paying the higher after-hours or weekend rates. If you do lose your keys you can rest easy knowing that the key cloned will work.