In the past, losing keys to your car was a minor inconvenience. A mistake today can cost you a large amount of money.
The cost of replacing a key on your vehicle is determined by the year, make and model. A standard metal key is the easiest to replace and can be recut by an automotive locksmith.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob is tiny pieces of plastic with many functions. It can unlock your vehicle, turn on the lights, or act as security measures to avoid theft. A replacement fob can be purchased at your local hardware store for less than $10. However, it can cost more to purchase a fob for a more modern car.
Based on the type of key fob you require, it may require special programming. Some may require computer software available only at a dealership. It is best to call your dealer with the vehicle's VIN number to make the right key for you. They'll also require evidence that you are the owner of the vehicle, such as registration and title documents or purchase papers.
A locksmith can sometimes make a key without the necessity of having an old one. This can save you money. However, they will still be required to charge you for their services. If you've lost your keys within an a remote location the cost will be more as they'll need to travel further.
You can save a few dollars by purchasing a used keyfob on the internet and having it programmed by a local locksmith or mechanic. To accomplish this, you'll have to know the model and make of your vehicle as well as basic understanding of how key fobs work. Certain key fobs, such as those from Audi and Subaru are not compatible with aftermarket versions.
Another option is to invest in an Faraday Key Fob Pouch, which protects your key fob from theft by blocking their signal. This can help you avoid losing your keys or having them stolen which could end up costing you more than the key fob itself would have cost. This is a must for anyone who has an advanced car or truck that has an advanced system of security integrated into the key fob. Although it costs around $160, it is cheaper than having to replace the car keys.
Transponder Key
If your car is equipped with a transponder key, it's going to be more expensive to replace than a regular key. The keys contain an electronic chip that communicates with the car to activate and close the doors, therefore the key must be programmed correctly for it to function. It is generally less expensive to have the transponder key replaced by an auto locksmith than at the dealer.
Dealerships also charge more to replace these keys, because they are the only ones to produce keys for their customers. You can save money by searching for locksmiths who specialize in your specific vehicle model. They are likely to be able to program your transponder chip as well as cut you an ordinary car key.
These chips were introduced in cars in 1998. They were designed to reduce car thefts, by preventing people to hot wire a vehicle without the correct key. They function by sending signals from the key to the ignition that turns on the car. The chip is equipped with a digital serial number that authenticates the key to make it work and assists in stopping thieves from copying and using fake keys.
Most modern cars come with chip keys along with the traditional flat metal key that can open the door and open the locks in the event of need. These two keys are usually kept apart and can be utilized in times of need or as a backup.
You can purchase a non-transponder key from a local hardware store, like Home Depot or Walmart, at a reasonable cost. These keys will not start your car, but they can be used to unlock the doors in case you're locked out of your car. Some of these keys are even compatible with certain car immobilizer systems that stop your car from starting if key that is not compatible is used.
You can request an additional key for your vehicle by contacting an auto locksmith. You can find one on the internet or by calling a local locksmith service. Auto locksmiths can be an ideal choice as they are usually 20% cheaper than dealerships for cars. They are also able to offer emergency service for situations like getting locked out of your vehicle.
Keyless Entry Remote
Key fobs can allow you to start and lock your vehicle even when the metal part of the key isn't in the ignition. This type of key is typically found in contemporary European vehicles and is priced between $200 to $500 to replace. The rolling-code encryption blocks thieves from copying the keys and from stealing vehicles. The keys can only be replaced by an authorized dealer. They cannot be copied in hardware stores.
A traditional key fob which makes use of a simple push-button to unlock the doors, is usually priced between $20 and $50 to replace. They are frequent targets for thieves, which is why it's crucial to have an extra mechanical key. Transponder keys with modern technology are slightly more expensive at between $100 and $150, however they come with additional security features that make them less likely to be stolen.
The most advanced form of key fob is the smart key, that is the size of an ordinary key and houses the key in plastic that is released when a button is pushed. This type of key is the most difficult to steal, and is often coupled with other premium features like navigation systems, for example, in higher trim levels or technology packages. Smart keys range from $250 and $500.
Some of these more modern key fobs can be copied by hardware stores, but others must be purchased through a dealer. In general, it will be more expensive to have the replacement car key costs of a smart key because they require a sophisticated remote entry procedure to be programmed to work with the vehicle.
The price of the key replacement car fob will vary depending on the manufacturer and the design. You can often locate an alternative key fob at an auto parts store in your area for less than at a dealership. There is also the possibility of having to pay extra for the service of programming the new key fob into your vehicle, which can be done by a locksmith, or at the dealer's service department.
Car Key Replacement
Losing your car key is not an enjoyable experience. You can't drive your car and you can't get anywhere if you are stuck. There are some things you can do to make the process simpler and less expensive.
Find an auto-locksmith in your area who is specialized in replacing car keys. This is the simplest and cheapest solution. A professional locksmith can replace an old metal key fob within a matter of minutes. They can also create keys to replace older cars that have a traditional mechanical key without chip. You can also find cheap replacement car keys online, although you'll need to check the specifications of your car and determine if the key will fit the model you've got.
Some auto dealerships only have a key programming device to program more advanced keys. Some of these devices can be utilized at home, however it is recommended to visit an expert if you have lost car keys replacement cost your car keys or want to make a replacement. The price ranges from $125 for basic transponder keys up to $300 for the advanced flip or "switchblade" type that opens doors and starts the engine using a single pressing.
Some dealers will provide key replacements at no cost if you can prove ownership, such as your registration or title. This is usually a included in roadside assistance accessories or a full bumper-to-bumper warranty.
The majority of locksmiths for automotive repair can repair car keys however they may not have the tools needed to program newer keys. If you can locate your car key and a copy of it, a duplicate can be made for less than $10 at your local hardware store. The hardest to duplicate are the newer fob keys that allow you to unlock and open your doors with the button. Key fobs with this feature contain a tiny microchip inside them that needs to be linked with your vehicle in order to unlock and start it. They can be reprogrammed by a locksmith for a higher price, or try your luck at the dealership.