It wasn’t long ago that losing car keys was not a major issue. You could bring your spare key to a key cutting shop for an alternative that cost less than $10.
Today, however, the process is more complex and expensive. Learn more about the various types of keys for cars and what they’ll cost you to replace.
Basic Key Fob
Key fobs are an remote control as well as an actual key in one. It’s a small, plastic piece with a button you can press to unlock doors and hatchbacks, open the trunk, lower windows and maybe even start your car. The key fob is equipped with an electronic chip embedded that communicates with the car’s onboard systems for controlling functions like the starter.
A basic key fob is generally made of standard 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 can cost between $50 and $100, but you’ll pay more if require a replacement for one that’s damaged or lost.
You’ll probably need to visit the dealer if your vehicle is older than five years old. Most newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or key shop will typically be capable of doing this for less.
The type of fob you’re using can also impact the cost. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, while most recent models utilize transponder keys. Key fobs of both kinds are able to be fitted with a variety of features. They can include keyless entry which locks and unlocks your car automatically, or rolling codes that are changed regularly to prevent thieves from stealing the data on your key fob.
You might be able to buy an aftermarket key fob online for less than what you’d pay at the dealership however they might not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that prevent their key fobs from interacting with third party devices. Some dealerships will program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in, but there’s a good chance it won’t continue to work.
Check your owner’s manual or search the manufacturer’s website to find information on programming your specific model’s key fob. It’s worth trying to do this yourself before going to the dealer or hiring an expert locksmith to do it. You can also look into your vehicle’s warranty and auto-insurance policy to determine if they cover the cost of replacing a key fob.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are utilized in most newer cars. These keys have a chip embedded into the head that sends a message to the vehicle after 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 keys because the transponder chip blocks the car from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was created to prevent theft of cars since it is almost impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the right equipment.
Additionally, many vehicles also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting when keys that are not transponder compatible are used. However, car thieves have also developed methods to break into and steal vehicles that have transponder keys.
A locksmith can usually assist you in replacing a lost or damaged transponder key. They’ll need details about your car like the VIN number and model. They will then cut a new one or program the existing one to the car’s system. This is a more expensive process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.
Some automotive stores, like AutoZone and Walmart, are also capable of cutting and copying the transponder keys, however they may not be in a position to reprogram the chip in the key. If you want to be sure that a professional is able to complete the task, you should contact an experienced and trusted locksmith business.
It was quite simple to create a duplicate key for a car and hot-wire a vehicle before the advent of this latest technology. This method was used to steal cars and allowed criminals to drive away with stolen vehicles. The advent of transponder keys has drastically reduced this crime however, it’s not completely eliminated.
You can get an expert to do this for you if you require an alternative transponder key or if you’ve lost yours. It’s more expensive than a standard key however it’s a safer and better option to ensure that someone else is unable to start your car.
Keyless Entry System
car key replacement service key fobs are now an everyday feature in cars as people are seeking convenience, security, and security. These transmitters can open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, or start the engine without an actual key. However, they also endure a lot of abuse from being tossed around and they’re more likely to get lost or stolen than metal keys. It’s costly to replace them, and you might require programming your new fob to connect it with your vehicle.
A basic key fob costs about ten dollars to get cut at an hardware store, but the most recent smart keys aren’t cheap when you’re looking to purchase them and have them programmed. It is possible to spend between $200 and $500 for the replacement key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed for your car.
Some advanced car key systems let you use your smartphone as keys. With the application on your phone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car key replacement service near me, and you can also switch on and off, as well as activate your parking brake, and do 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 unsupervised.
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 off the engine if you’re too far away. Certain of these systems can help you locate your car in a garage, and others will notify you when you close or open the doors.
These kinds of systems can also be beneficial to businesses, like property managers who oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. They can also make sure that only those who have permissions are permitted to enter and exit.
Dealership
Some people may think that they have to go to the dealer if their keys are lost. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership and may request keys from the manufacturer. This could take a few days. A dealer can usually do the job more quickly than a locksmith, and may even charge less.
The key fob might require to be programmed for your car. This can be done at the dealership, or by reading the owner’s manual. It involves opening and closing doors, as well as switching off or on lights and other electronic devices. It can even require pressing a set of buttons which acts as an electronic code. This is often handled by the drivers, but it is always best to let an expert handle it.
The cost is also affected by the year, model and year of vehicle. Modern cars feature high-tech transponder chips that will require pairing with the vehicle by a locksmith dealer and the process could be more expensive.
A dealer who sells particular brand of car is more likely to be able to replace the keys for that vehicle. Some of the larger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have several models and are familiar with keys.
Other brands are more difficult to work with. This includes some of the more established companies that have shut down, or are old enough to have keys that are no longer being produced. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are among the more established companies that no longer produce keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these kinds of keys require reprogramming which is more difficult and expensive 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. This way, you avoid having to pay for the higher after-hours or weekend rates. If you lose your keys, you are assured that the cloned key will work.