Car Keys Replacement Cost
A few years ago, losing your car keys was not an issue. You could bring your spare to a key cutter and get a new one for just $10 or less.
Nowadays, however, the process can be more complicated and costly. Learn about the different types and costs for car keys.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob can be described as a remote and key in one. It's a small, plastic device equipped with a button which you can press to unlock doors and hatchbacks, open the trunk, lower windows and maybe even start the car. The key fob has a built-in electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard system to control functions such as the starter.
A basic key fob is generally made of standard plastic and employs a lock-and key mechanism, like the kind you might find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob could cost anything from $50 to $100, but the true cost is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one.
If your car was built in the last five years, the chances are that you'll need to visit the dealer for a replacement fob, since many modern cars require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or key shop typically can perform this task for less, though.
The type of fob you have will also affect the price. Older cars have mechanical key fobs, while latest models use transponder keys. Both can have a wide range of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle instantly to rolling codes that are updated regularly to stop thieves from stealing and using your car's key fob data.
You may be able to buy an aftermarket key fob for less than the price you'd pay at a dealership, but these may not be compatible with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from working with third-party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket key fob, if it's brought in, but it's highly unlikely that it will work.
Read the owner's manual for your model or visit the manufacturer's website for information on programming your specific model's key fob. Try to do this yourself prior to paying an expert locksmith or visiting the dealer. You may also want to check your vehicle's warranty and auto-insurance policy to determine whether they cover the cost of a new key fob.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are found in the majority of newer automobiles. They have embedded chips in the head which transmits an electronic message to the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and for starting the engine. This key is more secure than a conventional flat metal key due to the transponder chip prevents a car from starting without the proper signal. This technology was created to stop car theft since it is almost impossible to duplicate keys without the appropriate equipment.
In addition, many cars also come with immobilizer systems that stop them from starting if the key is not transponder-compatible. However, thieves have also developed ways to steal and break into vehicles that have transponder keys.
A locksmith is usually able to help you replace the damaged or lost transponder key. They'll need the details of your particular vehicle, including the VIN number as well as the model and year. They'll either program your current key to the car's system, or cut new keys. This is a more costly process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.
Some automotive stores, like AutoZone and Walmart, are also capable of cutting and copying a transponder key, but they may not be in a position to reprogram the chip in the key. If you want to be sure that a professional will be able to handle the task, you should contact an experienced and trusted locksmith company.
Before the invention of technology like this, it was relatively simple to create duplicate car keys and then hot wire a car. This method of stealing cars was frequent and allowed criminals to get into and drive off with stolen vehicles. The advent of transponder keys has greatly reduced the likelihood of this happening however, it's not completely eliminated.
If you need a replacement transponder key, or have lost yours, the best choice is to call an expert and let them create it for you. The cost will be more than a standard key, but it's a safer and better method to ensure that your car is not able to be started by anyone else.
Keyless Entry System
Car key fobs are becoming a standard feature of vehicles, as more and people are seeking convenience, safety and security. These devices are able to open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, or even start the engine without a physical key. They can be tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. That means they're expensive to replace, and you might require fob programming to connect 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 most recent smart keys aren't cheap if you need to buy them and have them programmed. Based on your car's make and model, you can expect to pay between $200-$500 for a replacement fob plus the cost of cutting it and programming it to your car.
Some advanced car key systems allow you to make use of your smartphone as keys. By using the app on your smartphone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car and you can switch on and off, as well as activate your parking brake, and perform other things based 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 concerned about your children leaving the car unsupervised.
Some of these systems can be expensive, but are more secure than a standard car key. They keep track of your location to prevent you from locking or starting the car if you are too far from. Certain of these systems can assist you in finding your vehicle in a garage, while others will notify you when you shut or open the doors.
These kinds of systems could also be beneficial to companies, such as property managers that oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems are able to monitor the access rights of guests cleaners, guests, and maintenance staff, as well as making sure that only those with the right permissions can get into and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people may think that they need to go to the dealer if keys go missing. The dealer will request proof of ownership, and could order the key from the manufacturer. This could take a few days. However, a dealer can typically complete the task for you quicker than locksmiths, and they might have lower prices, as well.
The key fob may still require programming to your vehicle. This can be done either through the dealer or looking up the owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, as well as switching off or on lights and other electronic devices. It could even involve pressing a combination of buttons that functions as the code. Often, this can be performed by the driver however, it is best to have a technician perform it.
The cost will also be affected by the year, make and model of vehicle. key replacement car come with sophisticated transponder chips which will require pairing with the vehicle by a locksmith or dealer and the process could be more costly.
A dealer who sells a particular model will be more likely to have the knowledge to change keys for the model. Some of the bigger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan, have a large number of models and are more familiar with the keys that are used for the models they sell.
Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have shut down or are so old that they no longer produce keys are listed. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn, and Eagle. Typically, these types of keys have to be reprogrammed and can be more difficult and more expensive than replacing the key itself.
In general, if you have a spare key it is best to get it copied by an expert instead of obtaining an alternative from the dealer. You can avoid paying the more expensive rates for after-hours or weekend services. If you lose your keys you can be assured that the cloned one will function.