Car Keys Replacement Cost

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing car keys was not a major issue. You could bring your spare to key cutters and purchase a new one for $10 or less.

Nowadays, however, the process is more complex and expensive. Learn more about the various types of car keys and how they'll cost you to replace.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob is both an electronic remote and a key in one. It's a small, plastic device with a button you can press to unlock doors and hatchbacks, open the trunk, open windows, roll them down and, possibly, even start the car. The key fob has an electronic chip embedded that communicates with your emergency car key replacement near me's onboard systems for controlling functions like the starter.

Basic key fobs are made from standard plastic, and use a regular lock and key mechanism. These are the same as those that were used on the old Pontiacs and Saturns. A basic key fob will cost between $50-$100, but you'll pay more if you need to replace one that's been damaged or lost.

You'll likely need to visit a dealer if the car is older than five years old. Many newer cars require special equipment to code and program new keys. Locksmiths or key shops typically can do this for less, though.

The type of fob you're using can affect the price. Older cars have mechanical key fobs, whereas modern models usually come with transponder keys or smart keys. Key fobs of both types can be equipped with a range of features. They can include keyless entry that locks and unlocks your car automatically, or rolling codes that change frequently to stop thieves from stealing the information on the key fob.

It's possible to purchase an aftermarket key fob for less than what you'd pay at the dealer, but these may not be compatible with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from interacting with third-party devices. Some dealers can program an aftermarket key fob, if it's brought in, however it's likely that it won't function.

You can find out more about programming your key fob by visiting the manufacturer's site or the owner's guide. You should try to do this yourself first before paying for a locksmith or going to the dealer. You can also check your vehicle's warranty and auto-insurance policy to see whether they will cover the cost of a new key fob.

Transponder Key

Most modern cars utilize a type of key called a transponder key. The keys contain a chip embedded into the head that sends a message to the vehicle after it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and launching the engine. This key is more secure than a traditional flat metal keys because the transponder chip blocks cars from starting without the correct signal. This technology was created to stop car theft since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these kinds of keys without the right equipment.

Additionally, many cars also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting when a non-transponder key is used. However, car thieves have also developed ways to gain access and steal vehicles that have transponder keys.

A locksmith can usually assist you in replacing the damaged or lost transponder key. They will need to have the details of your particular vehicle, including the VIN number as well as the model and year. Then they will cut a new one or program the one they have to the car's system. This is a little more expensive than cutting a key from a dealership and program a new key.

Some auto stores such as AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and duplicate transponder keys but may not be capable of reprogramming chips in the key. You should contact a reputable and experienced locksmith service to be sure that a professional is able to handle the task.

It was relatively easy to make duplicate keys for a car, and then hot-wire a vehicle before the advent of this latest technology. This method was used to steal cars, and it allowed criminals drive away with stolen vehicles. The introduction of transponder keys has greatly reduced this activity however, it's not completely eliminated.

You can call an expert to do this for you if you require an alternative transponder key or if you lost yours. It's more expensive than a standard key but it's a much safer and better option to ensure that anyone else is unable to start your car.

Keyless Entry System

As more and more people demand convenience, security and safety, car key fobs have become a common feature. These tiny devices can unlock doors, set off the alarm that sounds a panic and open the trunk and even start your car without having the physical key in your hands. But they can also be subject to quite a beating from being tossed around, and they are more likely to be lost or stolen than traditional keys. That means they're expensive to replace, and you could require fob programming to connect your new one with your vehicle.

The cost of cutting a basic key fob at an hardware store is around ten dollars. However, the latest smart keys can be costly if you have to buy them and then program them. Based on the make and model you could expect to shell out between $200-$500 for a replacement car keys price fob, and the cost of having it cut and programmed to your car.

Certain advanced car key systems allow you to use your phone as keys. With the application on your smartphone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car and you can turn your lights on and off, as well as activate your parking brake, and do other things based on the proximity of your car. These are perfect for those who reside in urban areas or if you have kids and are worried about children leaving the car unattended.

Some of these systems can be expensive however they're also more secure than a standard car key as they track your location and prevent you from locking the car or turning on the engine if you're too far away. They also can help you find your car in a parking garage, and some can warn you if the doors have been opened or closed.

These kinds of systems can also be useful for companies, such as property managers who manage vacation rentals or office spaces. These systems allow them to monitor access rights for guests cleaners, guests, and maintenance staff, Car Keys Replacement as well as making sure that only those with the proper permissions can go in and out of the space.

Dealership

Some people may feel that they need to go to the dealer if keys go missing. The dealer will request proof of ownership and may request keys from the manufacturer. This could take several days. But a dealer can also generally complete the task for you faster than locksmiths, and may have cheaper prices, too.

It is likely that the key fob will need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership, or by reading the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, as well as turning lights and other electronic components on and off. It may even require pressing a number of buttons which act as a code. Often, this can be performed by the driver but it is better to have a technician do it.

The year the model, make and year of the car will affect the price, too. Modern cars come with high-tech transponder chips that will require pairing with the vehicle by a locksmith dealer and the process may be more costly.

A dealer who sells particular brand of car is more likely to know how to replace keys for the vehicle. Some of the bigger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan, have a large number of models, and are more familiar with the keys for the models they sell.

Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the more established brands that have shut down or are so old that they no longer make keys are listed. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are some of the more established companies that no longer produce keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these kinds of keys require reprogramming and can be more complicated and costly than replacing the key itself.

In general, if you have a spare key it is usually best to duplicate it at a specialist rather than getting a replacement from the dealer. This way, you avoid having to pay the more expensive after-hours or weekend rates. If you lose your keys you can be assured that the cloned one will work.