Blog entry by Katrina Quam
It wasn't long ago that misplacing keys to your car was not a problem. You could bring your spare to key cutters and purchase a new one for just $10 or less.
Nevertheless the process has become more complex and expensive. Learn about the various types and costs of car keys.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob is an electronic remote control and key in one. It's tiny, plastic device with a button can be pushed to open doors, open the hatchback or trunk, open windows, roll them down, and possibly even start the car. The key fob is equipped with an electronic chip in it that communicates with your car's onboard systems to regulate functions such as the starter.
Key fobs for basic use are typically made from standard plastic, and are fitted with a standard lock and key mechanism. These are similar to the ones found on old Pontiacs as well as Saturns. A basic key fob can cost between $50 and $100, but the actual price is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one.
You'll likely need to visit a dealer if your vehicle is more than five years old. Many newer cars require special equipment to code and programme new keys. A locksmith shop or key shop will usually be able to do this at a lower cost.
The type of fob you're using can also impact the cost. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, while modern models usually come with transponder keys or smart keys. Key fobs of both kinds can come with a variety of functions. They can include keyless entry, which locks and unlocks your car automatically or rolling codes that are updated regularly to prevent thieves from stealing the data on the key fob.
It's possible to buy an aftermarket key fob for less than what you'd pay at the dealership however they might not work with your vehicle. Some manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips in their key fobs, which prevent them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealerships can program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in, but there's a good possibility that it won't work.
Go through your owner's manual or go to the manufacturer's site to find information on programming your specific model's key fob. It's worth trying this yourself before heading to the dealership or hiring a locksmith to do it. You could also check the warranty of your vehicle, the auto-insurance policy and roadside assistance policy to see if they cover the costs of a replacement fob for your key.
Transponder Key
Most newer cars use keys of a different type, known as a transponder key. These keys have an embedded chip in the head which transmits an information to the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. The signal is used to unlock the car and begin the engine. This key is more secure than a conventional flat metal key due to the transponder chip blocks a car from starting without the proper signal. This technology was developed to prevent theft of cars since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the proper equipment.
Many vehicles are also equipped with immobilizers that stop the vehicle from starting if they are used with a key that is not transponder. Car thieves have devised methods to steal vehicles with transponder key systems.
A locksmith can help you replace your transponder key if it's damaged or stolen. They'll need details of your vehicle including the VIN number and model. They can then either program your existing key to the car key replacements near me's system or cut new keys. This is a little more expensive than getting a car dealership to cut and program a replacement key.
Some stores for automotive like AutoZone or Walmart can cut and copy transponder keys, however, they may not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. It is recommended to contact an experienced and reputable locksmith firm to be sure that a professional will be able to handle the task.
It was quite simple to make duplicate keys for a car and then wire a vehicle prior to the advent of this modern technology. This technique was used to steal cars, and it permitted criminals to steal stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced the risk of this crime, but not entirely eliminated it.
If you need a replacement key fob for car transponder key or you have lost yours, the best option is to contact a professional and have them create it for you. It will cost more than a standard one, however it's a safer and better option to ensure that someone else is unable to start your car.
Keyless Entry System
As increasing numbers of people want security, convenience, and safety, car key replacement service key fobs are now a standard feature. They can open doors, trigger the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, or even start the engine without a physical key. They are easily tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. This means they're costly to replace, and you may need fob programming to pair your new one with your vehicle.
A basic key fob costs around ten dollars to cut at the hardware store, however the latest smart keys can be expensive if you need to buy the keys and have them programmed. Depending on your vehicle model and make you can expect to pay between $200-$500 to replace a fob in addition to the cost of having it cut and programmed to your car.
Certain advanced car key systems let you use your smartphone as keys. By using the app on your phone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car, and you can also turn your lights on and off, as well as activate your parking brake, and perform other things depending on your proximity to the car. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas, or if you have kids and are worried about children leaving the car unattended.
Certain of these systems may be expensive, but they are more secure than a regular car key. They track your location to prevent you from accidentally locking or starting the car if you're far from. Certain systems can assist you in finding your car in a garage, and others can notify you when you close or open the doors.
These kinds of systems could also be beneficial to companies, such as property managers who manage office space or vacation rentals. These systems are able to monitor the access rights of guests as well as cleaning staff and maintenance personnel, while making sure that only those with the right permissions can get into and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people may feel that they must visit a dealership if their keys are lost. They will need to show proof of ownership, and sometimes the key must be ordered from the manufacturer which could take several days. But a dealer can also typically complete the task for you faster than locksmiths, and may have cheaper prices, too.
The key fob could require programming for your car. This can be done at the dealership or by looking up the owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, as well as turning on and off lights and other electronic devices. It can even involve pressing a combination of buttons that acts like an electronic code. Most of the time, this is performed by the driver but it is better to have a technician do it.
The cost is also affected by the year, make and model of vehicle. The cost of the service can be affected by the year, model and model of the vehicle.
A dealer that sells a certain model of car is more likely to know how to change keys for the model. Some of the larger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have several models and are familiar with keys.
Some brands are harder to work with. This includes a few of the older firms that have been shut down or are old enough to have keys that are no longer in production. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are among the more established companies that no longer produce keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these kinds of keys need to be reprogrammed which is more difficult and expensive than replacing the key itself.
It is best to have your spare key cloned by a professional rather than buying an entirely new one from a dealer. This way, you avoid having to pay for the higher after-hours or weekend rates. If you lose your keys you can be sure that the cloned key will function.