How Much Does a Replacement Key For Car Cost?
In the past, misplacing a car key was only an inconvenience. A mistake today can cost you a lot of money.
The cost of replacing the key in your vehicle will depend on the year, model and model. The easiest key to replace is a basic metal key, which can be easily recut by an automotive locksmith.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob is a little piece of plastic that has the ability to do a number of things. It can unlock your vehicle or turn on the light or act as a security feature to prevent theft. A replacement fob is available at your local hardware shop for less than $10. However, it may cost more money to buy an accessory fob for a more advanced vehicle.
You may need to program your key fob in a different way depending on the type. Some may need to be programmed with computer software available only at a dealer. 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, such as the registration, title or purchase paperwork.
In some cases, a locksmith can create a new key for you, without needing the old one on hand. This could save you a lot of money. However, they will still charge for the service. If you lost your keys in a remote area, the price will be higher as they'll have to travel a greater distance.
You can try to save a few bucks by buying a second-hand key fob online and having it programmable by your local locksmith or mechanic. To accomplish this, you'll have to know the model and make of your vehicle, as well as some basic understanding of the functions of key fobs. Certain key fobs, for instance those from Audi and Subaru are not compatible with the aftermarket versions.
Another alternative is to purchase the Faraday Key Fob Pouch, which will protect 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 a lot more than the key fob itself would have cost. This device is crucial for those who own a modern vehicle or truck equipped with keys that have a high-tech security system. It's a bit expensive at around $160, but it's much cheaper than replacing the keys to your car.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys cost more to replace compared to the standard keys. These keys are equipped with chips that communicate with the car to activate and close the doors, therefore the key needs to be programmed correctly in order for it to work. Auto locksmiths can replace the transponder key on a car for a lot less than the retail price.
Dealerships also charge a premium to replace these keys because they have exclusive rights to make keys for their customers. If you're looking to save money on a replacement key for your vehicle, try seeking out locksmith services online that specialize in your car model. They'll likely be able to both program your transponder chip as well as cut you the standard car key.
These chips were introduced to cars in 1998 and are designed to reduce car thefts by preventing thieves from hot wiring a car that doesn't have the correct key. The chips transmit an information from the key to the car's ignition. The chip has a serial code that authenticates the key and allows it to work. This prevents thieves from using fake keys and stealing keys.
Modern cars are equipped with a chip key and an old-fashioned flat metal key that is able to open the door and operate locks in the event of need. These two keys are usually kept separate and can be used for emergencies or as a backup.
You can purchase a blank non-transponder key from a local hardware store, like Home Depot or Walmart, at a price that is quite affordable. The keys won't be able to start your car but they are able to open the doors if you're locked out of your car. Certain keys are compatible with certain car immobilizers that stop your car from starting if an immobilizer that isn't compatible is used.
You can get new keys for your car by making contact with an auto locksmith. You can search for one online or contact a local locksmith company. Auto locksmiths are a good choice because they are typically 20% less expensive than car dealerships. 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 when the metal key is not in the ignition. Keys of this type are found typically in modern European automobiles, and it can cost between $200-$500 to replace. They utilize rolling-code encryption to prevent thieves from copying them and stealing the vehicle. Typically, these kinds of keys need to be replaced by an authorized dealer and are not able to be copied by hardware stores.
The cost of replacing a key fob with a simple button to unlock the door ranges from $20 to $50. However they are a frequent target for thieves, which is why it is crucial to have a backup mechanical key, as well. The newer transponder key is slightly more expensive, between $100 and $150. However, they do have additional security features which make them less prone to theft.
The most advanced form of key fob is the smart key which is the size of a regular key and houses the key in plastic that pops out when a button is pushed. This kind of key is extremely difficult to steal and is often included with other features that are premium, like navigation systems or technology packages. Info are generally more expensive at between $250-$500.
Hardware stores can copy some of these keys, but others must be ordered from a dealer. It is more expensive to replace a smart key because it requires a complicated remote entry system to be programmed.
The key fob itself can vary in cost based on the manufacturer and design of the key. It is possible to find the replacement key fob in a local auto parts store at a cheaper cost than at the dealership. There is also the possibility of having to pay extra for the process of programming the replacement key fob to your vehicle, which is done 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 can't get anywhere if you are stuck. There are some things you can do to make the process more efficient and less expensive.
Find a local auto locksmith who specializes in car key replacement. This is the simplest and cheapest solution. A professional can replace the basic metal key fob in minutes. They can also create replacement keys for older vehicles that use a conventional mechanical key without chip. You can also find cheap keys for replacement online, although you'll need to verify the details of your vehicle and determine if the keys be compatible with the model you've got.
More advanced keys are difficult to duplicate and require a specific key programming machine that only a few auto dealerships have. You can try some of these devices at home, but you should seek out a professional if your car key is lost or if you want to make an extra. The cost can run from $125 for basic transponder keys to more than $300 for the high-tech flip or "switchblade" type that opens doors and begins the engine by pressing a button pressing.
Some dealers will do key replacements at no cost if you can prove ownership, such as your registration or title. This service is usually included in roadside assistance add-ons or a complete bumper to bumper warranty.
Most automotive locksmiths are able to replace car keys but may not have the necessary equipment to program newer keys. If you're able to find your car key, a simple copy can be made for $10 or less at your local hardware store. The hardest to duplicate are the newer fob style keys that open and lock your doors by pressing an icon. The key fobs are equipped with an embedded microchip that needs to be paired to your vehicle to unlock and start the vehicle. These can be reprogrammed by locksmiths for a more expensive fee, or you can try it out at the dealership.