Car Keys Replacement Cost

A few years ago, losing your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could take your spare key to a key cutter and get the replacement key for less than $10.

Nevertheless the process has gotten more complex and expensive. Learn more about the various types of keys for cars and what they can cost you to replace.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob is a remote control and an actual key in one. It's a small, plastic device that houses a button or buttons that you press to unlock the doors, open the trunk or hatchback, lower the windows, and perhaps start the car. The key fob comes with an electronic chip built in that communicates with the car's onboard systems for controlling functions like the starter.

Key fobs for basic use are typically made from standard plastic, and are fitted with a standard lock and key mechanism. They're similar to the ones found on old Pontiacs or Saturns. A basic key fob can cost between $50 and $100, but the actual cost is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one.

If your car was manufactured in the last five years, chances are you'll need to visit the dealership for a replacement fob as many newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. Locksmiths or key shops will usually be able to do this for less, though.

The type of fob you have will also affect the price. Older cars use mechanical keys, whereas the most recent models typically have transponder keys or smart keys. Both of these types are able to have a range of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle in a controlled manner to changing codes on a regular basis to deter thieves from intercepting and using your car's key fob data.

You may be able to buy an aftermarket key fob at a lower cost than what you'd pay at the dealership however they might not work with your vehicle. Some manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips that block their key fobs from interfacing with third party devices. Some dealerships can program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in but there's a good chance that it won't function.

Go through your owner's manual or go to the manufacturer's site for information about programming your particular model's key fob. It's worth trying this yourself before going to the dealership or hiring an expert locksmith. You can 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 modern cars utilize keys of a different type, known as a transponder key. The keys have an embedded chip inside the head of the key which transmits a signal the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and launching the engine. This type of key is more secure than traditional flat metal keys due to a transponder chip prevents the car from starting if it does not receive an appropriate signal from the key. This technology was designed to reduce car theft because it is almost impossible to duplicate these keys without the right equipment.

Many cars are also equipped with immobilizers that prevent them from being started when they are operated by a key that is not transponder. However, thieves have also developed ways to steal and break into cars with transponder keys.

A locksmith can assist you repair your transponder key in the event that it's damaged or stolen. They will require details of your vehicle, such as the VIN number and model. They'll either program your current key to the car's computer system or cut a new one. This is a costlier process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.

Some auto stores such as AutoZone or Walmart can cut and duplicate transponder keys but may not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. It is best to call an experienced and reliable locksmith service to ensure that a professional is competent to complete the task.

It was relatively easy to make duplicate keys for a car and hot-wire a vehicle before the advent of this latest technology. This method of stealing vehicles was common and allowed criminals to enter and drive away with stolen vehicles. The advent of the transponder key has greatly reduced the likelihood of this happening however, it's not completely eliminated.

You can call a professional to do this for you if you need an extra transponder key or if you've lost one. The cost will be higher than a standard key, however it's a safer and better way to ensure that your vehicle is not able to be started by anyone else.

Keyless Entry System

As increasing numbers of people seek security, convenience, and safety keys for their cars have become a standard feature. These devices are able to open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, or start the engine without an actual key. They are easily tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. It's expensive to replace them, and you might require programming your new key to pair it with your vehicle.

A basic key fob costs around ten dollars to get cut at an hardware store, but the latest smart keys can be expensive if you need to buy them and have them programmed. Based on the make and model you can expect to shell out between $200 and $500 for a replacement fob plus the cost of having it cut and programmed to your car.

There are additionally more advanced car key systems that allow you to use your smartphone as an actual key. You can lock or unlock your car by using an app on your phone. You can also turn on and off your lights, activate your parking break, as well as perform other tasks based on the distance you're to the vehicle. These are great for people who reside in urban areas, or even parents who are worried about your kids leaving the car unattended.

Some of these systems could be expensive, but they are more secure than a regular car key. They monitor your location to stop you from locking or opening the car key battery replacement near me if you are far away. They also can help you locate your car in garages that have parking spaces and can even warn you if the doors have been open or closed.

These systems are also useful for businesses like property managers who oversee offices or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to monitor the access rights for guests as well as cleaning staff and maintenance workers, while making sure that only those with the right permissions can get in and Car Keys Replacement Cost out of the space.

Dealership

Some people may feel that they have to go to the dealer if their keys are lost. The dealer will ask for proof of ownership and order the key from the manufacturer. This could take a few days. However, a dealer can generally complete the task for you quicker than locksmiths, and they may offer lower prices too.

The key fob may still require to be programmed for your vehicle. This can be done either through the dealer or consulting your owner's guide. It involves opening and closing doors, and turning off lights and other electronics on and off. It may also require pressing a set of buttons that act as a code. This is often handled by the drivers, but it's always better to let an expert manage it.

The year the car was manufactured, its model and make of the car will have an impact on the price, too. Newer cars have high-tech transponder chips that will require pairing with the vehicle by a locksmith dealer and the process may be more expensive.

A dealer that sells a specific brand of car is more likely to know how to replace the keys for that particular vehicle. Some of the biggest manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan, have a large number of models, and are more familiar with the keys that are used for those models.

Other brands are more difficult 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 being produced. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. These keys are usually modified. This is more expensive and time-consuming than replacing the key.

It is best to get your spare key copied by a professional rather than getting another one from a dealer. You can avoid paying the higher rates for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys, you can be sure that the duplicate will work.