Car Keys Replacement Cost

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

Nevertheless, the process has become more complicated and costly. Read on to learn about the different types of keys for cars and what they will cost you to replace.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob is both an remote as well as a key in one. It's a small, plastic piece with a button you can press to unlock doors, open the hatchback or trunk, lower windows and maybe even start your car. The key fob has a built-in electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard computer system to control functions such as the starter.

A basic key fob is generally constructed of plastic that employs a lock-and key mechanism, like the kind you might find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost anywhere between $50 to $100, however you'll be charged more if you need to replace one that's lost or damaged.

You'll likely have to visit the dealer if the car is more than five years old. A lot of newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith shop or key shop is usually in a position to provide this service for less.

The cost of your fob can also be affected by the type you own. Older cars have mechanical keys, whereas the latest models usually have transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of key fobs can come with a range of features. They can include keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically or rolling codes that change frequently to keep thieves from stealing the information on the key fob.

You may be able to buy an aftermarket key fob for less than what you'd pay at the dealership however, they may not be compatible with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, Cheapest replacement car Keys such as Audi and Subaru, have security chips in their key fobs that prevent them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealerships can program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in, but there's a good chance that it won't work.

Check your owner's manual or search the manufacturer's website for more information about programming your particular model's key fob. You should try to do this yourself prior to paying an expert locksmith or visiting the dealer. You can also look at your vehicle's warranty, roadside assistance and auto-insurance policy to see if they cover the costs of a cheapest replacement car Keys key fob.

Transponder Key

Most modern cars utilize keys of a different type, known as transponder keys. The keys have an embedded chip inside the head of the key that transmits a signal to the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. The signal is used to unlock the car and start the engine. This key is more secure than the traditional flat metal key because the transponder chip stops a car from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was developed to stop car theft since it is almost impossible to duplicate these keys without the right equipment.

Many cars are also fitted with immobilizers which prevent the vehicle from starting when they are operated by keys that are not transponder. However, car thieves have also developed ways to break into and steal cars with transponder keys.

A locksmith is usually able to help you replace a lost or damaged transponder key. They will need the details about your car including the VIN number and model. Then they will cut a new one or program the one they have to your car's security system. This is a more costly process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.

Some auto stores, such as AutoZone and Walmart are also capable of cutting and copying a transponder key, but they may not be capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. If you want to be sure that a professional will be able to handle the job, seek out a reputable and experienced locksmith business.

It was quite simple to make duplicate keys for a car, and then hot-wire a vehicle before the advent of this new technology. This method of stealing vehicles was common and allowed criminals to gain entry and drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced this crime, but not entirely eliminated it.

If you need a new transponder key, or have lost yours, the best choice is to call a professional and have them make it for you. The cost will be higher than a traditional key but it's a safer and better way to ensure that your car is not able to be started by anyone else.

Keyless Entry System

Car key fobs are now an everyday feature in cars, as more and more people want convenience, safety, and security. These transmitters are able to open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, or start the engine without having the physical key. They are easily tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. That means they're expensive to replace, and you could need fob programming to pair your new key with your vehicle.

A standard key fob can cost about ten dollars to cut at an hardware store, but the latest smart keys aren't cheap if you need to buy them and then have them programmed. Depending on your vehicle model and make you can expect to pay between $200 to $500 for a replacement fob plus the cost of cutting it and programming it to your car.

Some advanced car key systems allow you to use your phone as keys. You can lock or unlock your car by using an app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, turn on your parking break, as well as perform other things based on how close you are to the vehicle. They are perfect for people who live in urban areas, or if you're a parent that's worried about your kids leaving the car unsupervised.

Some of these systems can be expensive, but they are more secure than a standard car key. They monitor your location to stop you from locking or opening the car if you're far from. They also can help you find your car in parking garages and can even warn you if the doors are open or closed.

These systems are also beneficial for companies such as property managers who oversee vacation rentals or offices. These systems allow them to check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. They can also make sure that only those with permissions are permitted to enter and exit.

Dealership

Some people believe they need to go to the dealer if their keys are missing. They'll have to show proof of ownership, and sometimes the key must be ordered from the manufacturer which could take several days. But a dealer will generally complete the task for cheapest Replacement car keys you much faster than a locksmith, and they might have lower prices, as well.

It is likely that the key fob will 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 closing doors, and switching off or on lights and other electronic devices. It could even require pressing a set of buttons which act as codes. This is often handled by the driver, but it is always best to let a technician manage it.

The year the model, make and year of the vehicle will have an impact on the cost as well. Newer cars have high-tech transponder chips that will need to be paired with the car by a locksmith or dealer and the process may be more costly.

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

Some brands are harder to work with. Some of the more established brands that have closed or that are old enough that they no longer produce keys are included. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are among the companies that are older and have stopped producing keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. The keys are typically modified. This is more expensive and time-consuming than replacing the key.

In general, if you have a spare key, it is usually best to duplicate it at a specialist instead of getting a replacement from the dealer. That way you can avoid having to pay the more expensive after-hours or weekend rates. If you do lose your keys, you can rest easy knowing that the cloned key will work.