Car Keys Replacement Cost

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

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

Basic Key Fob

Key fobs are an remote control as well as an actual key in one. It's a tiny plastic device that houses a button or buttons that you can push to unlock the doors and trunk, open the hatchback, roll down the windows and maybe even start the car. The key fob is equipped with an electronic chip built in that communicates with the car's onboard systems for controlling functions like the starter.

A basic key fob is typically constructed of plastic that uses a regular lock-and-key mechanism, like the type you'd find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost anything from $50 to $100, but the actual cost is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one.

If your car was built within the last five years, the chances are that you'll need to visit the dealer for a replacement fob since many modern cars require specialized equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith shop or key shop will typically be able to do this for less.

The cost of the fob you purchase can also depend on the type of fob you own. Older vehicles use mechanical key fobs, while the latest models usually have transponder keys or smart keys. Both can have a wide range of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the car automatically to rolling codes that change regularly to stop thieves from stealing and using your car's key fob data.

You may be able to purchase an aftermarket key fob online at a lower cost than what you'd pay at the dealer however they might not work with your car. Certain manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips that prevent their key fobs from working with third-party devices. Some dealers can program an aftermarket key fob if it's purchased, but it's very likely that it won't work.

You can find information about programming your key fob by visiting the site of the manufacturer or in the owner's guide. It's worth trying this yourself before going to the dealer or hiring an expert locksmith to do it. You may also want to check your vehicle's warranty and auto-insurance policy to see if they cover the cost of replacing a key fob.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are used in most newer cars. These keys have embedded chips in the head that transmits a message to the vehicle after it is placed in the ignition cylinder. The signal is used to unlock the car and begin the engine. This key car replacement is more secure than the conventional flat metal key due to the transponder chip blocks cars from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was developed to prevent theft of cars because it is almost impossible to duplicate these keys without the right equipment.

Additionally, many cars also have immobilizer systems that prevent them from starting when the key is not transponder-compatible. However, thieves have also developed ways to gain access and steal cars with transponder keys.

A locksmith can usually help you replace a lost or damaged transponder key. They'll need the details about your specific vehicle, including the VIN number, model and year. They'll either program your existing key to the car's system, or cut a new one. This is a more expensive process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.

Some stores for automotive, such as AutoZone and Walmart can also be capable of cutting and copying the transponder keys, however they might not be in a position to reprogram the chip inside the key. If you want to be sure that a professional will be able to handle the task, you should call a reputable and experienced locksmith company.

Before the advent of technology like this it was fairly simple to create duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a car. This was a method used to steal cars, and it permitted criminals to steal stolen vehicles. The introduction of the transponder key has greatly reduced this activity but it's not completely eliminated.

If you need a replacement transponder key, or have lost yours, the best option is to contact a professional and have them do it for you. It will cost more than a standard key, but it's a safer and more reliable alternative to ensure that someone else will not be able to start your car.

Keyless Entry System

As increasing numbers of people seek convenience, security and safety keys for their cars have become a standard feature. These tiny devices can unlock doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, and even start your engine without having to have a physical key in your hand. However, they also endure a lot of abuse from being tossed around, and they are more likely to be lost or stolen than traditional keys. This means they're costly to replace, and you may require fob programming in order to pair the new key with your vehicle.

The cost of cutting a standard fob for a key at a hardware shop is around ten dollars. However, the latest smart keys can be expensive if you have to buy them, as well as program them. You should expect to pay between $200 and $500 on the replacement key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed for your car.

There are also more advanced car key systems that let you make use of your smartphone as a key. With the application on your smartphone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car, and you can also turn your lights on and off, turn off your parking brake, and do other things depending on the proximity of your car. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas or even if you're a parent that's worried about your children leaving the car unsupervised.

Some of these systems can be expensive however they're also more secure than a regular car key since they monitor your location and stop you from locking the car or turning the engine on when you're far away. Certain of these systems can assist you in finding your car in a garage and others will notify you when you close or open the doors.

These systems are also beneficial for companies such as property managers who manage office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems are able to monitor the access rights of guests cleaners, guests, and maintenance workers, while ensuring that only those who have the proper permissions can go into and out of the space.

Dealership

Some people may think that they need to visit a dealership if keys go missing. They'll have to show proof of ownership, and sometimes the key must be purchased from the manufacturer, which could take a few days. But a dealer will usually get the job done for Car Keys Replacement Cost you faster than a locksmith, and they may have cheaper prices, too.

It is likely that the key fob will still need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership, or by consulting your owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, as well as switching off or on lights and other electronic devices. It could even involve pressing a combination of buttons which acts as a code. Most of the time, this is done by the driver, but it is always better to have a technician perform it.

The year the car was manufactured, its model and make of the vehicle will have an impact on the price as well. Modern cars feature sophisticated transponder chips which will need to be paired with the vehicle by a locksmith or a dealer and the process could be more costly.

A dealer who sells a particular model of car is more likely to know how to change keys for the model. Some of the biggest manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a wide variety of models and are more familiar with the keys for the specific models.

Some brands are harder to work with. Some of the more established brands that have closed or are old enough that they no longer manufacture keys are listed. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn, and Eagle. The keys are typically changed. This can be more expensive and time-consuming than replacing the key.

If you have a spare key it is usually best to have it cloned at a specialist rather than getting an exchange from the dealer. This way, you avoid paying the higher after-hours or weekend rates. If you do lose your keys you can rest assured that the cloned key will function.