Car Keys Replacement Cost
Not long ago, misplacing your keys to your car wasn't a big deal. You could bring your spare to an a key cutter and buy an additional one for $10 or less.
However, the process has become more complex and expensive. Learn more about the different types of keys for cars and how they'll cost you to replace.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob is a remote control and key in one. It's a small plastic device that houses one or more buttons that you push to unlock the doors, open the trunk or hatchback, open the windows, and possibly start the car. The key fob is equipped with an electronic chip in it that communicates with the car's onboard systems for controlling functions like the starter.
A basic key fob is usually made of standard plastic and uses a regular lock-and-key mechanism, such as the kind you might find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost anywhere from $50 to $100, but the actual cost comes when you have to replace a lost or damaged one.
If your car was built within the last five years, chances are you'll need to go to the dealership for a replacement fob as many newer vehicles require specialized equipment to code and program new keys. Locksmiths or key shops can usually perform this task for less, however.
The type of fob you have will also affect the price. Older cars have mechanical key fobs, while the latest models usually have transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of key fobs can be equipped with a variety of features. They can include keyless entry, which locks and unlocks your car automatically, or rolling codes that are updated regularly to prevent thieves from stealing the information on the key fob.
Key fobs that are available online could be less expensive than ones you can buy at the dealer, but they may not work with your vehicle. Some manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from interfacing with third party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket key fob, if it's brought in, however it's likely that it won't work.
Check your owner's manual or search the manufacturer's website to find information on programming your specific model's key fob. It is recommended to try this yourself prior to paying for a locksmith or going to the dealer. You can also look at your car's warranty, roadside assistance and auto-insurance coverage to determine if they cover the costs of a replacement fob for your key.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are used in the majority of modern cars. These keys contain a chip embedded in the key's head that transmits a signal to the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. The signal is used to unlock the car and begin the engine. This key type is more secure than traditional flat metal keys since transponder chips prevent the car from starting if it doesn't receive an appropriate signal from the key. This technology was created to stop car theft since it is nearly impossible to duplicate these keys without the right equipment.
Many cars are also equipped with immobilizers which prevent the vehicle from starting when they are operated by keys that are not transponder. However, car thieves have also developed methods to steal and break into cars that are equipped with transponder keys.
A locksmith can usually help you replace the damaged or lost transponder key. They'll need information about your vehicle like the VIN number and model. Then, they'll cut a new one or program the one they have to your car's security system. This is a costlier procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys.
Some automotive stores like AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and copy transponder keys, but may not be capable of reprogramming chips in the key. It is best to call an experienced and reliable locksmith firm to ensure that a professional is competent to complete the task.
It was relatively easy to create duplicate keys for a car and wire a vehicle prior to the advent of this new technology. This method of stealing vehicles was common and allowed criminals to gain entry and drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have drastically reduced this crime, but not entirely eliminated it.
You can get an expert to do this for you if you require an alternative transponder key or if you've lost one. The cost will be higher than a conventional key, but it is a much safer and better way to ensure that your vehicle can't be started by anyone else.
Keyless Entry System
As more and more people demand convenience, safety and security key fobs for cars have become a standard feature. These tiny transmitters can open doors, set off the panic alarm and open the trunk and even start your engine without needing to have a physical key in your hand. But they can also be subject to quite a beating from being tossed around, and they are more likely to get lost or stolen than traditional keys. It's costly to replace them, and you might have to program your new key to pair it with your vehicle.
A basic key fob costs around ten dollars to get cut at an hardware store, but the latest smart keys can be expensive if you want to purchase them and have them programmed. It is possible to spend between $200 and $500 for a replacement key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed for your car.
Certain advanced car key systems allow you to make use of your smartphone as keys. You can lock or unlock your vehicle remotely using the app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn on and off your lights, turn on your parking break, and perform other tasks depending on the distance you're to the vehicle. These are perfect for those who reside in urban areas or if you have kids and worry about them leaving the car unattended.
Certain of these systems are expensive however they're also more secure than a regular car key since they locate you and prevent you from accidentally locking the car or turning on the engine when you're far away. They can also help you find your car in a parking garage and can even warn you if the doors are shut or opened.
These systems are also useful for businesses like property managers who oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems are able to monitor the access rights of guests as well as cleaning staff and maintenance workers, while making sure that only those with the appropriate permissions are allowed to get in and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people feel they must go to the dealer when their keys are missing. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership and may request the key from the manufacturer. This could take several days. But a dealer can also usually get the job done for you much faster than locksmiths, and may have cheaper prices, too.
The key fob may still need to be programmed to your vehicle. car key replacements can be done at the dealership, or by referring to your owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, and switching off or on lights and other electronic devices. It could even require pressing a set of buttons which act as codes. This is usually handled by the drivers, but it's best to let an expert manage it.
The cost can also be affected by the year, make and model of vehicle. Newer cars have advanced transponder chips that need to be paired with the car by a locksmith or a dealer and the process may be more expensive.
A dealer who sells a particular model will be more likely to be able to replace keys for that model. Some of the bigger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a huge number of models, and are more acquainted with the keys for the specific models.
Certain brands are more difficult to work with. This includes some of the more established companies that have closed, or are old enough to have keys that are no longer in production. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are a few of the more established companies that do not produce keys anymore. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these keys require reprogramming and can be more difficult and expensive than replacing the key itself.
If you have a spare key it is usually best to have it cloned at an expert instead of obtaining an alternative from the dealer. That way you can avoid paying the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. Then, if you do lose your keys you can rest assured that the key cloned will work.