Why Losing Your Smart Key Can Be Expensive

 

Before the mid-late 1990s, it was cheap and easy to get a replacement set of keys. Now it can be very expensive and time-consuming. While the new smart keys have advanced security technology that makes it much more difficult for your vehicle to be stolen, this technology also makes them more expensive to replace. Our Stocker Subaru dealership, your State College car dealer of choice, encourages you to buy a spare key while you still have one. Here’s why.

In the mid- to late-1990s, the head of a car key was equipped with a new transponder chip that sent a signal to the ignition. If the wrong signal was detected, the vehicle would not start. Because the chip is unique to each vehicle, it must be programmed. Laser-cut keys also have transponder chips that need to be programmed at a Subaru dealership. 

To save time and money, our #StockerSubaru dealership suggests you order an extra basic key without the transmitter. This avoids the cost of programming the key. While the key won’t start the engine, it will do everything else, which can come in handy if you happen to lock your keys inside your Subaru.

Switchblade keys have shanks that fold into the fob and pop out with the press of a button. One advantage of the switchblade key is that its components can be purchased separately, making it a little less expensive to replace.

Smart Keys aren’t really ‘keys’ in the traditional sense. They are actually fobs that can be inserted in the dash or stay in your pocket or purse. Smart Keys have a unique code, making it very difficult for your vehicle to be stolen. These keys must be replaced at a dealership and can cost between $200-$400. 

Since it’s a lot cheaper to get a replacement if you have a Smart Key our dealership can work with, it’s a good idea to have a spare on hand just in case. If you end up losing all your Smart Keys, you could end up having your car towed to the dealership, as well as having all your locks replaced, at a cost of $1,000. Plus you have to deal with the inconvenience.

We’re happy to help you get a replacement key for your Subaru vehicle, so come see us. And, if you’re in the market for a new set of wheels, we have an extensive selection of new, certified pre-owned and used cars for sale in PA. We carry all the latest models like the award-winning Subaru Outback, Legacy, XV Crosstrek, WRX, BRZ and Impreza. You’re sure to find something that fits your transportation needs and budget. Our factory-trained and certified technicians are among the best and they look forward to keeping your Subaru running like new. Learn more at our website at www.stockersubaru.com.