7 Helpful Tricks To Making The The Most Of Your Car Keys Replacement Cost
Car Keys Replacement Cost
In the past, losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could take your spare key to a key cutting shop for a new one that cost $10 or less.
Today, however, the process is more complex and expensive. Learn about the different types and costs of keys for cars.
Basic Key Fob
Key fobs are a remote control and an actual key in one. It's a small, plastic device with a button you can press to unlock doors, open the hatchback or trunk, open windows, roll them down and, possibly, even start the car. The key fob also comes with an embedded electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard computer system to control functions such as the starter.
A basic key fob is generally made of plastic and utilizes a standard lock-and-key mechanism, like the one you'd find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob costs anywhere between $50 to $100, however you'll be charged more if you require a replacement for one that has been damaged or lost.
You'll probably need to visit a dealer if your car is more than five years old. Most newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or a key shop will usually be able to do this for less, though.
The cost of the fob you purchase can also depend on the type you have. Older cars have mechanical key fobs while the most recent models utilize transponder keys. Both types of key fobs can come with a variety of features. They may include keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically, or rolling codes that are changed regularly to prevent thieves from stealing the data on the key fob.
Key fobs that are available online could be cheaper than those you can get from the dealer, but they may not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru, include security chips in their key fobs that prevent them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealerships will program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in however there's a high possibility that it won't work.
Read the owner's manual for your model or visit the manufacturer's website for more information on programming your specific model's key fob. It is recommended to try this yourself before hiring an expert locksmith or visiting the dealer. You can also check your vehicle's warranty, roadside assistance and auto-insurance policy to see if they will cover the cost of a replacement key fob.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are found in most newer cars. They have an embedded chip in the key's head that sends a signal to the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and for starting the engine. This key is more secure than the traditional flat metal key because the transponder chip blocks cars from starting without the proper signal. This technology was created to prevent theft of cars since it is almost impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the proper equipment.
Many vehicles are also equipped with immobilizers that stop them from starting when they are operated by keys that do not have a transponder. However, car criminals have also come up with methods to break into and steal cars with transponder keys.
A locksmith can help to replace your transponder keys if it is damaged or lost. They'll need details of your vehicle, such as the VIN number and model. They will then cut a new key or program the current one to your car's security system. This procedure is more expensive than simply having a car dealership cut and program a new key.
Some auto stores, such as AutoZone and Walmart, are also capable of cutting and copying the transponder keys, however they may not be able to reprogram the chip inside the key. If you want to ensure that a professional can handle the task, you should contact an experienced and trusted locksmith service.
It was quite simple to make duplicate keys for a car, and then hot-wire a car prior to the advent of this latest technology. replacement car key cost was used to steal cars, and it permitted criminals to steal stolen vehicles. The advent of transponder keys has greatly reduced this activity however, it's not completely eliminated.
You can contact a professional to do this for you if you need an extra transponder key or if you've lost one. It will cost more than a standard key but it's a safer and more reliable option to ensure that someone else is unable to start your car.
Keyless Entry System
As increasing numbers of people seek convenience, security and safety keys for their cars have become a common feature. These tiny transmitters can open doors, activate the alarm for panic, open the trunk, and even start your engine without needing to carry a physical key in your hands. They are easily tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. It's costly to replace them, and you may have to program your new key to pair it with your vehicle.
A basic key fob costs ten or so dollars to cut at an hardware store, but the latest smart keys aren't cheap when you want to purchase the keys and have them programmed. Based on the model and make you can expect to pay between $200 to $500 to replace a fob in addition to the cost of cutting it and programming it to your vehicle.
Some advanced car key systems let you make use of your smartphone as a key. You can lock or unlock your car by using an app on your phone. You can also turn on and off your lights, turn on your parking break, as well as perform other things based on the distance you're to your vehicle. These apps are ideal for those who live in urban areas, or if you're a parent that's concerned about your children leaving the car unattended.
Certain of these systems are costly, but they're also more secure than a standard car key as they track your location and prevent you from locking the car or turning on the engine if you're too far away. They can also help you locate your car inside parking garages and even alert you if the doors have been open or closed.
These systems are also useful for businesses such as property managers who manage offices or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to monitor access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those who have permissions are allowed to enter and exit the premises.
Dealership
Some people feel they must go to the dealer if their keys are missing. They will need to show proof of ownership, and occasionally the key must be purchased from the manufacturer, which could take a few days. A dealer is usually able to complete the job more quickly than a locksmith, and could even cost less.
The key fob might require to be programmed for your car. This can be done at the dealership or by consulting your owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, and switching off and on lights and other electronic devices. It could even require pressing a set of buttons which acts as a code. This can often be done by the driver, but it is always best to let a technician handle it.
The year the car was manufactured, its model and make of the vehicle will have an impact on the cost 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 particular model of car is more likely to be able to change keys for the model. Some of the bigger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler, have many models and are familiar with keys.
Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have shut down or that are old enough that they no longer manufacture keys are listed. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn, and Eagle. Typically, these kinds of keys need to be reprogrammed which is more difficult and more expensive than replacing the key itself.
It is recommended that you have your spare key cloned by a specialist rather than purchasing a new one from the dealer. That way you can avoid paying the higher after-hours or weekend rates. If you lose your keys you can be assured that the duplicate will work.