It wasn't that long ago that losing car keys was not a major issue. You could bring your spare key to a key cutter for a new one that cost $10 or less.
Today, however the process is more complex and costly. Find out more about the different types of car keys and how they will cost you to replace them.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob can be described as an remote control as well as a key in one. It's a small, plastic piece equipped with a button which you can push to unlock doors, open the hatchback or trunk, lower windows and, possibly, even start your car. The key fob comes with an electronic chip embedded that communicates with the car's onboard systems to regulate functions like the starter.
Key fobs for basic use are typically made from standard plastic, and utilize a standard lock and key mechanism. They are the same as those found on old Pontiacs as well as Saturns. A basic key fob can cost anywhere from $50 to $100, but the actual price is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one.
If your car was built in the past five years, chances are you'll need to go to the dealership to get a replacement fob as many newer cars require specialized equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith or key shop typically can perform this task for less, though.
The cost of your fob could also be affected by the type you own. replacement car key near me have mechanical keys, while the most recent models utilize transponder keys. Both of these types can have a wide range of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the vehicle instantly to rolling codes that are updated regularly to deter thieves from intercepting and using the key fob information of your car.
You may be able to purchase an aftermarket key fob for less than the price you'd pay at the dealer however they might not be compatible with your vehicle. Some manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru include security chips in their key fobs, which prevent them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob when it's brought in, but it's highly unlikely that it will work.
You can find out more about programming your key fob by searching the website of the manufacturer or your owner's guide. It's worth trying this yourself before going to the dealership or hiring a locksmith to do it. You can also look into your car's warranty and auto insurance policy to see if they cover the cost of a new key fob.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are used in most newer cars. The keys contain embedded chips in the head that sends an information to the vehicle once it is inserted in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and launching the engine. This key type is more secure than conventional flat metal keys due to transponder chips stop the car from starting if it doesn't receive a signal from the correct key. This technology was developed to stop car theft since it is nearly impossible to duplicate these keys without the right equipment.
In addition, many cars also come with immobilizer systems that stop them from starting when keys that are not transponder compatible are used. Car thieves have come up with ways to steal cars equipped with transponder key systems.
A locksmith can help you to replace your transponder keys if it is damaged or lost. They'll require the details of your particular vehicle, including the VIN number along with the year, model and year. They can then either program the key you have to the car's system or cut new keys. This is a costlier process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.
Some auto stores, such as AutoZone and Walmart, are also capable of cutting and re-copying the transponder key, however they may not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. If you want to ensure that a professional can handle the task, you should call a reputable and experienced locksmith business.
It was relatively easy to create a duplicate key for a car and hot-wire a vehicle before the advent of this new technology. This method was used to steal cars, and it permitted criminals to steal stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have drastically reduced the risk of this crime, but they haven't completely eliminated it completely.
You can call an expert to handle this for you if you need a replacement transponder key, or if you've lost yours. The cost will be higher than a standard key, but it is a much safer and better method to ensure that your vehicle is not able to be started by anyone else.
Keyless Entry System
Car key fobs are becoming a standard feature in vehicles, as more and more people seek convenience, security and security. These transmitters are able to open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, or start the engine without having a physical key. But they can also take a lot of abuse from being tossed around and they're more likely to be lost or stolen than metal keys. It's costly to replace keys, and you might require programming your new fob to connect it with your vehicle.
A basic key fob will cost ten or so dollars to cut at an hardware store, but the most recent smart keys aren't cheap when you want to purchase the keys and have them programmed. Based on your car's make and model, you can expect to shell out between $200-$500 to replace a fob plus the cost of cutting it and programming it to your vehicle.
Some advanced car key systems let you use your phone as an actual key. Using the app 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 the proximity of your car. They are perfect for people who live in urban areas, or if you're a parent that's worried about your children leaving the car without supervision.
Certain of these systems may be expensive, but are more secure than the standard car key. They monitor your location to stop you from locking or starting the car if you are far away. They also can help you find your car in parking garages and even alert you if the doors have been shut or opened.
These systems are also useful for companies such as property managers who manage vacation rentals or offices. These systems allow them to monitor the access rights of guests, cleaning staff, and maintenance staff, as well as ensuring that only those with the appropriate permissions are allowed to get into and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people may think that they have to go to the dealer if their keys are lost. The dealer will request proof of ownership and request keys from the manufacturer. This can take several days. A dealer can usually do the job quicker than a locksmith, and could even cost less.
The key fob may still need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealer or by reading the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, as well as turning on and off lights and other electronic devices. It can even require pressing a set of buttons which acts as an electronic code. This is usually handled by the driver, but it's best to let a technician handle it.
The year the car was manufactured, its model and make of the vehicle will impact the price as well. Newer cars have sophisticated transponder chips which will require pairing with the car by a locksmith dealer and the process may be more costly.
A dealer that sells a certain brand of car will be more likely to have the knowledge to replace keys for the model. Some of the biggest manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a huge variety of models and are more acquainted with the keys for the models they sell.
Other brands are more 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 being produced. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. These keys are usually changed. This can be more expensive and difficult than replacing the key.
It is recommended that you get your spare key copied by a professional rather than getting another one from the dealer. That way you can avoid paying the more expensive after-hours or weekend rates. If you lose your keys you are assured that the cloned one will function.
