How Much Does a Replacement Key For Car Cost?
In the past, losing your car key was a minor inconvenience. But nowadays, the mistake can cost you big bucks.
The cost of replacing the key for your vehicle depends on its year, make, and model. The simplest key to replace is a simple metal one, which can be easily recut by a locksmith for automotive use.
Basic Key Fob
Key fobs can be tiny pieces of plastic with many functions. It can unlock your vehicle, turn on the light or even serve as a security device to stop theft. You can buy a replacement fob at your local hardware store for less than $10. However, it may cost more to get a fob for a more advanced car.
Depending on the type of key fob you need it might require specialized programming. Some might need to be programmed with computer software available only at a dealer. Contact your dealer and give them the VIN number of the vehicle to create the correct key. They will need proof of ownership like the title or registration papers, or purchase documents.
In some cases locksmiths can create a new key for you without needing to have the old one on hand. This could save you money. They'll still charge you for the service. If you've lost your keys in an area that is remote, the cost will be higher since they'll have to travel further.
You can save a few bucks by buying a second-hand key fob online and having it programmed by your local locksmith or mechanic. However, you will require knowledge of your vehicle's make and model and have some basic knowledge of how key fobs operate to do this. Some key fobs, like those from Audi and Subaru are not compatible with the aftermarket versions.
Another alternative is to purchase a Faraday Key Fob Pouch, that will shield your key fob from thieves by blocking their signal. This can help you avoid losing your keys or having them stolen, which could cost you more than the original key fob would have cost. This device is crucial for those who own a modern vehicle or truck that has keys that have high-tech security features. It is expensive at around $160, but it is far less expensive than replacing the car keys.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys cost more to replace as compared to regular keys. These keys are equipped with a chip that communicates with the car to turn on and then secure the doors, which means the key needs to be programmed correctly in order for it to work. Locksmiths in auto shops can replace keys for transponders for a lot less than the retail price.
Dealerships are also charged more to replace these keys, because they are the only ones to make them for their clients. You can save money by searching for locksmiths that specialize in your specific car model. car key replacements 'll likely be able both to program your transponder chip as well as cut you a standard car key.
The chips were added to vehicles in 1998 and were designed to decrease car thefts by stopping people from hot wiring a car that doesn't have the right key. They work by sending an electrical signal from the ignition to the key that turns on the car. The chip is equipped with a digital serial number that authenticates the key in order to ensure its operation and helps prevent thieves from copying or using fake keys.
Most modern cars have chip keys as well as the traditional flat key that can be used to open the doors and operate the locks, if necessary. The two keys are typically kept apart and can be used for emergencies or as backup.
A blank car key without transponder can be bought at a local hardware store, such as Home Depot, Walmart or Lowe's at a fairly low price. These keys won't start your vehicle however they can be used to open the doors in case you're locked out of your vehicle. Some keys are compatible with certain car immobilizers that stop your vehicle from starting if a key that isn't compatible is used.
You can obtain a new key for your vehicle by making contact with an auto locksmith. You can find one online or by contacting a local locksmith company. Auto locksmiths are a great option because they will usually cost about 20% less than the dealership for cars. They also offer emergency service in situations such as being locked out of your vehicle.
Keyless Entry Remote
With a key fob, you can lock and start your car even if the key made of metal is not in the ignition. This key style is found mostly in modern European cars and can cost between $200-$500 for replacement. The rolling-code encryption blocks thieves from copying the keys and also from stealing vehicles. Typically, these types of keys must be replaced through an authorized dealer and cannot be copied by hardware stores.
A standard key fob, which uses a simple push-button to unlock doors, is usually priced between $20 to $50 to replace. However, they are a common target for thieves, which is why it is important to have a mechanical backup key in addition. Transponder keys with modern technology are slightly more expensive, ranging between $100 and $150, however they offer additional security features that make them less likely to be stolen.
The most advanced kind of key fob is the smart key which is the size of the standard key and contains an aluminum key inside a plastic that pops out when a button is pressed. This kind of key is the most difficult to steal and is usually included with other features of premium quality such as navigation systems in higher trim levels or technology packages. Smart keys are generally more expensive at $250 and $500.
Hardware stores can duplicate some of these keys, however others have to be ordered from an authorized dealer. In general, it is more expensive to get a smart key replaced because they require a sophisticated remote-entry process to be programmed to work with the vehicle.
The key fob itself will vary in price depending on the manufacturer and design of the key. Most of the time you'll be able to buy a replacement at the local auto parts store for a much cheaper price than you will find at a dealership. You may also need to pay an additional fee to program the replacement key fob for your vehicle, which is performed by a locksmith or at the dealer's service department.
Car Key Replacement
Losing your car key is not a pleasurable experience. You're not able to drive your vehicle and you won't be able to get anywhere when you're stuck. There are some steps you can do to make the process easier and more affordable.
The most cost-effective and easiest alternative is to locate an auto locksmith in your area who specialises in keys for cars. A professional locksmith can replace the basic metal key fob in minutes. They can also make keys for older cars with mechanical keys that don't include chips. You can also find cheap keys for cars on the internet, but you'll have to check the specifications of your car and determine if the key will be compatible with the model you own.
Some auto dealerships have a key programming machine for more advanced keys. You can use some of these machines at home, however you should go to an expert if your car key is lost or you want to make an extra. The cost ranges from $125 for basic transponder keys up to $300 for the high-tech flip or "switchblade" type that opens doors and then starts the engine with a button pressing.
Some dealers will replace keys for free if you have evidence of ownership, like your registration, title or insurance card. This service is usually included in roadside assistance add-ons or a complete bumper-to-bumper warranty.
Most locksmiths in the automotive industry can replace car keys however they may not have the tools needed to program the latest keys. If you have your car keys, a simple duplicate can be created at your local hardware store for less than $10. The most difficult keys to duplicate are the newer fob style keys that allow you to unlock and open your doors by pressing a button. Key fobs with this feature have a tiny microchip in them that needs to be linked with your vehicle in order to unlock and start it. You can get them reset at a dealer or by a locksmith but the cost is higher.