In the last 3 decades car keys have become much more expensive and the main reason for that is the advanced security technology used in modern car keys.
Many cars nowadays come with key fobs and transponder chip which provide special security features and extra protection against car theft.
Understanding the different types of car keys helps explain the price cost of each one:
Car Key Technology
Transponder Key Technology
A transponder key contains a microchip that connects directly with the car’s engine control unit (ECU) in order to prevent Auto theft. When inserted a transponder car key into the ignition a unique radio signal is being send and if the signal matches the ECU’s code the engine starts.
Transponder car keys were invented in the 1990s to enhance car’s security by stopping thieves jumpstart cars and steal them.
Key Fob Technology
Car key fobs are a modern type of car key that combine a traditional metal key with a remote control. Not only they let you lock and unlock your car they also let you start the engine from a distance and some key fobs also offer extra features like trunk release and panic alarms. Most modern car key fobs also contain a transponder chip to prevent unauthorized access and starting of the car.
When you press a button on the fob to unlock the car or start the engine, the transponder chip sends a unique signal to the vehicle’s ignition system in the same matter of any transponder car key and if the signal matches the car will start or unlock.
The Evolution of Car Key Technology
Car key technology has changed a lot over the years from simple metal keys through advanced transponder keys and car key fobs with extra features like trunk release and alarm.
General Motors were the first to introduce chipped car keys order to fight car theft and today car keys are much more than just for starting our cars as they provide extra protection, high conveniency and advanced security.
Price Breakdown for Car Keys
The cost of replacing car keys depends on few different factors and both transponder keys and key fobs have different prices.
Complexity of Technology
Transponder keys have a microchip that connects to the car’s engine control unit to prevent an authorized engine start, making them cost more than regular metal keys. Key fobs, which often include a transponder chip also have a remote for locking, unlocking and even starting the car from a distance making them even more expensive because of these extra features.
Programming Costs
Programming modern car keys involves copying the original key’s code which requires accessing the vehicle’s data using the VIN and can time and quite some efforts consuming precious time there for cost more.
Syncing key fobs to a car’s computer system can also be a complex task as different car manufactures require different programming tools.
All of these extra features improve car security and convenience, but make replacement keys more expensive.
