How Much Does a Replacement Key For Car Cost?
In the past, losing your car keys was a minor inconvenience. However, now, a mishap can cost you big bucks.
The price of replacing a replacement key for your car depends on the year, model 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 do a number of things. It can unlock your vehicle, turn on the lights or even act as an alarm to stop theft. You can get a replacement fob from your local hardware store for less than $10. However, it may cost more money to buy an additional fob for an advanced vehicle.
You may need to program your key fob in a different way depending on the type. Certain key fobs will require computer software available only through a dealer. It is best to call your dealer with the VIN number so they can make the right key for you. They will also require proof that you are the owner, such as the registration, title or purchase paperwork.
A locksmith can sometimes make a key with no need to have your old one. This could save you a lot of money. However, they'll have to charge you for their service. If you've lost your keys in an area that is remote, the price will be higher as they'll need to travel a greater distance.
You can try to save a few dollars by purchasing an aftermarket key fob online and having it programmed by your local mechanic or locksmith. However, you'll need to know your vehicle's make and model and have some basic knowledge of how key fobs work for this. Some key fobs, for instance those from Audi and Subaru are not compatible with aftermarket versions.
Another option is to invest in an Faraday Key Fob Pouch, that will shield 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 is a must for those who own a modern car or truck with an advanced security system built into the key fob. It's a bit pricey at around $160, but it is much cheaper than replacing the keys to your car.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are more expensive to replace compared to regular keys. These keys contain a chip which communicates with the vehicle to turn it on or to lock the doors. The key needs to be programmed correctly to work. car key replacements can repair a transponder car key at a lower cost than the retail price.
Dealerships also charge a premium for replacing these keys since they have exclusive rights to create them for their customers. If you're looking to save money on a replacement key for your vehicle, try searching online for locksmith services that specialize in your particular car model. They are likely to be able to program your transponder chip and cut you a standard car key.
These chips were introduced to vehicles in 1998 and are designed to help reduce car thefts by preventing thieves from hot wiring a vehicle that doesn't have the right key. They function by sending a signal from the ignition to the key that turns on the car. The chip contains a serial number that authenticates the key in order to enable it to function and also assists in stopping thieves from copying and distributing fake keys.
Most modern cars have chip keys as well as the traditional flat key that can be used to unlock the doors and open the locks, if necessary. Most of the time, these two keys are kept separate and are utilized as backups or in the event of an emergency.
A non-transponder car key that is blank is available at an area hardware store like Home Depot, Walmart or Lowe's at a fairly low price. These keys won't start your car however, they can be used to open your doors if you're locked out. Some of these keys are even compatible with certain car immobilizer systems that stop your car from starting if non-compatible key is used.
The best way to get an alternative key for your car is through an auto locksmith. You can find one online or by contacting a local locksmith company. Auto locksmiths can be an excellent choice since they are typically 20% cheaper than dealerships for cars. They can also provide emergency assistance in cases like being locked out of your car.
Keyless Entry Remote
With a key fob, you can lock and start your vehicle even if the key made of metal is not in the ignition. Keys of this type are found typically in contemporary European cars and can cost anywhere between $200-$500 for replacement. They utilize rolling-code encryption to keep thieves from copying them and then stealing the vehicle. The keys can only be exchanged by a dealer. They cannot be copied in hardware stores.
A traditional key fob, which uses a simple push-button to unlock the doors, can cost between $20 to $50 to replace. However they are a frequent target for thieves, so it is essential to have a mechanical backup key as well. Transponder keys that are newer are more expensive at between $100 and $150, but they offer additional security features that make them less likely to be stolen.
The smart key is the most advanced key fob. It's about the size of a standard key and has an iron key that pops out of the plastic when an appropriate button is press. 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 priced between $250 and $500.
Certain of these modern key fobs are able to be copied by hardware stores, while others need to be ordered through an agent. It is more expensive to replace a smart key since it requires a complex remote-entry system that must be programmed.
The cost of the key fob will vary according to the manufacturer and the design. In most cases, you will be able to buy a replacement at your local auto parts shop for lower cost than you will find at the dealership. You may also have to pay to program the replacement key fob for your vehicle, which is done by a locksmith or in the service department of the dealer.
Car Key Replacement
Losing your car's key isn't a pleasant experience. It not only prevents you from driving your vehicle, it also makes it impossible to get around when you're stuck somewhere. There are a few things you can do to make the process more efficient and cheaper.
The most cost-effective and easiest alternative is to locate an auto locksmith near you who specialises in car keys. A professional locksmith can replace the basic metal key fob within minutes. They can also make replacement keys for older vehicles that have a traditional mechanical key without chip. There are also discounted replacement car keys on the internet, but you'll need to verify the specifics of your car and determine if it will work with the model you own.
More advanced keys are difficult to duplicate, and require a particular key programming machine that only a few auto dealerships have. Certain of these tools can be used at home, but it is recommended to visit an expert if you've lost your car keys or want to make a replacement. The cost ranges from $125 for basic transponder keys to more than $300 for the high-tech flip or "switchblade" type that opens doors and starts the engine by pressing a button pressing.
Some dealers will do key replacements at no cost if you can prove ownership, like your registration or title. This service is usually part of roadside assistance extra add-ons or a complete bumper-to-bumper warranty.
The majority of locksmiths for automotive repair are able to replace keys for cars but they might not have the tools to program newer ones. If you can locate the car key an easy copy can be purchased for $10 or less at the local hardware store. The hardest to duplicate are the modern fob style keys that allow you to unlock and open your doors by pressing a button. Key fobs have microchips that need to be paired to your vehicle in order to unlock and start the car. They can be changed at a dealership or through a locksmith however the price will be higher.