How Much Does a Replacement Key For Car Cost?
In the past, misplacing keys to your car was a minor inconvenience. But nowadays, the mistake could cost you a lot 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 simplest to replace and can be cut by an automotive locksmith.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob is a small piece of plastic that can perform a variety of tasks. It can unlock your car or turn on the light or even act as security to stop theft. You can purchase an additional fob from your local hardware store for less than $10. However, it could cost more money to buy an accessory fob for a more advanced vehicle.
Depending on the kind of key fob you want it could require special programming. Some may need to be programmed with computer software available only at a dealer. Contact your dealer and give them the VIN number of the vehicle so that they can make you the right key. They'll also require evidence that you are the owner of the vehicle, such as registration, title or purchase paperwork.
In some instances, a locksmith can make a new key for you without needing the old one on hand. This could save you money. However, they will still be required to charge you for their services. If you lost your keys in a remote area and you're in a remote area, the cost will be higher since they'll need to travel farther.
You could save a few dollars by purchasing a key fob from an aftermarket store on the internet and having it programmed by your local locksmith or mechanic. But, you'll need to know your vehicle's make and model and have some basic knowledge of how key fobs function to do this. Some key fobs, such as those from Audi and Subaru do not work with aftermarket versions.
Another option is to invest in the Faraday Key Fob Pouch, which protects your key fob from theft by blocking their signal. This will help you avoid losing your keys or having them stolen which could end up costing you a lot more than the key fob itself would have cost. This device is a must for those who own an automobile or truck that comes with an advanced security system that is built into the key fob. It's a bit expensive, at about $160, but it is cheaper than replacing your car keys.
Transponder Key
If your car has transponder keys, it's going to be more expensive to replace than a standard key. The keys have a chip which communicates with the vehicle to turn it off or to lock the doors. The key has to be programmed correctly for it to function. It is usually much cheaper to have the transponder key replaced by an auto locksmith than at the dealer.
Dealerships can also charge more to replace keys, because they are the only ones to produce them for their clients. If you're looking to save the cost of a replacement key for your car, consider seeking out locksmith services online that specialize in your particular car model. They will likely be able to both program your transponder chip as well as cut you an ordinary car key.
The chips were added to vehicles in 1998 and are designed to help reduce car thefts by stopping people from hot wiring a car that doesn't have the correct key. They work by sending an electrical signal from the key to the ignition that turns on the car. The chip has a digital serial number that authenticates the key to make it work and assists in stopping thieves from copying or using fake keys.
Most modern cars have chip keys as well as an old-fashioned flat key that can be used to unlock the doors and operate the locks, in case of need. The majority of the time, these keys are kept in separate places and are used as backup keys or in case of emergency.
You can purchase a non-transponder key from a local hardware store, such as Home Depot or Walmart, for a fairly inexpensive price. These keys won't start your vehicle, but can be used to open your doors if you are locked out. Certain keys are compatible with certain car immobilizers that stop your car from starting if a non-compatible one is used.
The best way to get an alternative key for your car is to contact an auto locksmith. You can find one online or contact an established local locksmith. Auto locksmiths can be a good choice because they are usually 20% less expensive than dealerships for cars. They also offer emergency service for situations like being locked out of your car.
Keyless Entry Remote
With a key fob, you can lock and start your vehicle even when the metal key is not in the ignition. This type of key is most commonly found in contemporary European automobiles and can cost between $200 to $500 to replace. They utilize rolling-code encryption to prevent thieves from copying them and stealing the vehicle. Typically, these types keys must be replaced through a dealer and are not able to be copied by hardware stores.
A traditional key fob, that uses a simple push button to open doors, will usually cost between $20 to $50 to replace. However, they are a common target for thieves, which is why it is essential to have a mechanical backup key in addition. Transponder keys with modern technology are slightly more expensive, ranging between $100 and $150, but they offer additional security features that make them less likely to be stolen.
auto key replacement is the most advanced key fob. It's the size of an ordinary key, and it has the key made of metal that pops up from the plastic when an appropriate button is press. This type of key is the most difficult to steal, and is often included with other features of premium quality such as navigation systems in higher trim levels or technological packages. Smart keys are typically more expensive, ranging between $250-$500.
Hardware stores can copy a few of these newer keys, however others have to be ordered from a dealer. In general, it will be more expensive to have the replacement of a smart key because they require a sophisticated remote entry process to be programmed to work with the vehicle.
The key fob itself will differ in price depending on the manufacturer and design of the key. The majority of the time, you will be able to buy the replacement from your local auto parts shop for less than you would get at a dealership. There is also the possibility of having to pay an additional fee for the process of programming the new key fob into your vehicle, which is performed by a locksmith or at the dealer's service department.
Car Key Replacement
It's difficult to find your car keys. You're not able to drive your vehicle and you won't be able to get anywhere in the event that you're stuck. There are a few things you can do to make the process easier and more affordable.
The simplest and most affordable alternative is to locate an auto locksmith in your area that is specialized in car keys. A professional locksmith can change an old key fob made of metal in a matter of minutes. They can also make replacement keys for older vehicles that use a conventional mechanical key that does not have a chip. You can also find discounted keys for cars on the internet, however you'll need to check the details of your vehicle and determine if the keys work with the model you have.
Some auto dealerships only have a key programming machine for more advanced keys. Some of these machines can be employed at home, but it is recommended to visit an expert if you've lost your car keys or wish to create a spare. The cost of a transponder key can range from $125 to $300.
Some dealers will replace keys for free if you have evidence of ownership like your registration, title or insurance card. This is usually a included in roadside assistance add-ons or a comprehensive bumper-to-bumper warranty.
Most locksmiths in the automotive industry can replace car keys however they may not have the tools needed to program newer keys. If you can find your car keys, a simple duplicate can be made at your local hardware shop for less than $10. The most difficult to duplicate are the modern fob style keys that unlock and open your doors by pressing the button. The key fobs are equipped with an embedded microchip that needs to be paired to your vehicle in order to unlock and start your vehicle. You can have them changed at a dealership or by a locksmith, however the price will be higher.