Car Keys Replacement Cost

It wasn't that long ago that losing car keys was not a major issue. You could bring your spare key to a key cutter and get an alternative that cost $10 or less.

Today, however, the process is more complex and costly. Learn about the different types and costs for keys for cars.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob is a remote control and an actual key in one. It's a small, plastic device that has buttons or buttons that you push to unlock the doors and open the trunk or hatchback, lower the windows, and perhaps start the mobile car key replacement. The key fob has an embedded electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard system to control functions like the starter.

A basic key fob is usually made of standard plastic and utilizes a standard lock-and-key mechanism, such as the one you'd find on an old 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 been lost or damaged.

If your car was manufactured in the last five years, the chances are that you'll need to go to the dealership for a replacement key fobs for cars fob as many newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or a key shop will typically be in a position to provide this service for less.

The cost of your fob could also depend on the type of fob you own. Older cars use mechanical keys, while the most recent models utilize transponder keys. Both types of key fobs can come with a variety of functions. They could include keyless entry that locks and unlocks your car automatically or rolling codes that are updated regularly to prevent thieves from intercepting the data on the key fob.

It's possible to buy an aftermarket key fob for less than what you'd pay at a dealership however, they may not work with your car. Certain manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from interfacing 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 out more about programming your key fob by searching the manufacturer's site or the owner's guide. It is recommended to try this yourself prior to paying a locksmith or going to the dealer. You can also check the warranty on your vehicle and the auto-insurance policy to see if they cover the cost of replacing a key fob.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are found in the majority of newer automobiles. They have an embedded chip in the head that sends an electronic message to the vehicle once it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and starting the engine. This key is more secure than the traditional flat metal key because the transponder chip stops cars from starting without the proper signal. This technology was designed to stop car theft since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these keys without the right equipment.

Many cars are also fitted with immobilizers that stop them from starting when they are operated with keys that are not transponder. Car thieves have developed methods of stealing cars with transponder key systems.

A locksmith can help you to replace your transponder keys if it is damaged or lost. They will need to have the information about your specific vehicle, such as the VIN number, model and year. They'll either program your existing key to the car's system, or cut an entirely new one. This process is a bit more expensive than simply cutting a key from a dealership and program a new key.

Some stores for automotive, Car Keys Replacement Cost such as AutoZone and Walmart can also be capable of cutting and re-copying the transponder key, however they may not be capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. You should contact an experienced and reliable locksmith service to ensure that a professional will be able to handle the task.

Before the advent of this technology, it was relatively easy to make duplicate car keys and then hot wire a car. This technique was used to steal cars and permitted criminals to steal stolen vehicles. The advent of transponder keys has drastically reduced this crime however, it's not completely eliminated.

You can contact an expert to handle this for you if you need a replacement transponder key, or if you've lost yours. It will cost more than a standard key but it's a much safer and more secure alternative to ensure that someone else cannot start your car.

Keyless Entry System

Car key fobs are now a standard feature in vehicles as more people seek convenience, safety and security. These tiny devices can unlock doors, set off the alarm for panic and open the trunk and even start your engine without needing the physical key in your hands. However, they also take quite a beating from being tossed around and they are more likely to be lost or stolen than the metal keys. It's expensive to replace keys, and you might need to program your new fob to connect it with your vehicle.

A standard key fob can cost ten or so dollars to get cut at a hardware store, but the latest smart keys can be expensive if you're looking to purchase them and then have them programmed. Depending on your vehicle model and make you can expect to shell out between $200-$500 for a replacement fob plus the cost of cutting it and programming it to your car.

Some advanced car key systems let you make use of your smartphone as a key. By using the app on your phone, you can remote lock or unlock your car and you can also switch on and off, turn off your parking brake, and do other things based on your proximity to the car. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas or if you have kids and are worried about them leaving the car unattended.

Some of these systems can be expensive, but they're also more secure than a standard car key as they track your location and prevent you from accidentally locking your car or turning off the engine in case you're not close enough. Certain of these systems can assist you in finding your car in a garage and others can alert you if you open or close the doors.

These systems can also be useful for businesses like property managers who oversee offices or vacation rentals. These systems permit them to control access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also make sure that only those who have permissions are permitted to enter and exit.

Dealership

Some people may think that they need to go to the dealer if their keys disappear. They will need to show proof of ownership, and sometimes keys must be purchased from the manufacturer, which could take a few days. A dealer is usually able to complete the job quicker than a locksmith, Car Keys Replacement Cost and could even cost less.

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

The cost is also dependent on the year, make and type of vehicle. Modern cars come with advanced transponder chips that need to be paired with the car by a locksmith or a dealer, and the process can be more costly.

A dealer that sells a certain model of car is more likely to know how to change keys for that model. Some of the bigger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan, have a large number of models and are more acquainted with the keys that are used for the specific models.

Certain brands are difficult to work with. This includes a few of the older companies that have closed, or are old enough to have keys that are no longer being produced. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. These keys are usually reprogrammed. This can be more expensive and difficult than replacing the key.

It is best to have your spare key cloned by a professional rather than buying an entirely new one from the dealer. This way, you avoid having to pay for the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. If you lose your keys you can be sure that the cloned key will function.