Car Keys Replacement Cost

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

Nevertheless the process has become more complex and expensive. Find out about the various kinds and costs for car keys.

Basic Key Fob

Key fobs are a remote and key in one. It's tiny, plastic device equipped with a button which can be pushed to open doors or hatchbacks, open the trunk, open windows, roll them down and maybe even start the vehicle. The key fob also has an electronic chip inside that communicates with the car's onboard system to manage functions such as the starter.

A basic key fob is typically constructed of plastic that uses a regular lock-and-key mechanism, such as the one you'd find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob could cost anything from $50 to $100, but the real cost is when you need to replace a lost or damaged one.

You'll likely have to visit the dealer if your car is older than five years old. Many newer cars require special equipment to code and programme new keys. A locksmith or a key shop will usually be able to do this at a lower cost.

The type of fob you're using will also affect the price. Older vehicles have mechanical key fobs while the most recent models utilize transponder keys. Both of these types can have a wide range of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the car in a controlled manner to changing codes on a regular basis to prevent thieves from taking and using your car's key fob data.

You might be able to purchase an aftermarket key fob online for less than what you'd pay at the dealership, but these may not work with your car. Certain manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips inside their key fobs that block them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob, if it's brought in, but it's highly unlikely that it will function.

Read the owner's manual for your model or go to the manufacturer's site for information about programming your particular model's key fob. Try to do this yourself first before paying for a locksmith or going to the dealer. You could also check your car's warranty, roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance coverage to determine if they will cover the cost of a replacement fob for your key.

Transponder Key

Most newer cars use keys of a different type, known as transponder keys. These keys have a chip embedded into the head that transmits an information to the vehicle after it is put into the ignition cylinder. The signal is used to unlock the car and begin the engine. This key is more secure than a conventional flat metal key due to the transponder chip blocks the car from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was designed to reduce car theft as it is virtually impossible to duplicate these kinds of keys without the proper equipment.

Additionally, many cars also have immobilizer systems that prevent them from starting when keys that are not transponder compatible are used. However, car thieves have also developed ways to break into and steal vehicles that have transponder keys.

A locksmith can help you to replace your transponder keys if it's damaged or lost. They will require details of your vehicle including the VIN number and model. They will then cut a new one or program the one they have to the car's system. This is a more expensive procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys replacement for cars.

Some auto stores, such as AutoZone and Walmart can also be capable of cutting and re-copying the transponder key, however they may not be in a position to reprogram the chip in the key. If you want to be sure that a professional is able to complete the job, call a reputable and experienced locksmith company.

Before the advent of this technology it was quite simple to create duplicate car keys and then hot wire a vehicle. This method of stealing cars was widespread and allowed criminals to enter and drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have greatly reduced the risk of this crime, but not entirely eliminated it completely.

You can call an expert to handle this for you if you require an alternative transponder key or if you've lost yours. It will cost more than a standard key, however it's a safer and more reliable alternative to ensure that someone else cannot start your car.

Keyless Entry System

As increasing numbers of people want convenience, security and safety keys for their cars have become a standard feature. These transmitters can open doors, trigger the panic alarm, open the trunk, or start the engine without an actual key. They can be tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. It's costly to replace them, and you might need to program your new fob to pair it with your vehicle.

A basic key fob will cost ten or so dollars to cut at an hardware store, but the most recent smart keys aren't cheap if you want to purchase them and then have them programmed. Based on your car's model and make you could expect to pay between $200 and $500 for a replacement fob and the cost of having it cut and programmed to your vehicle.

Some advanced car key systems let you use your smartphone as a key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle remotely using the app on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, turn on your parking break, and Car Keys Replacement Cost do other things based on how close you are to the vehicle. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas, or if you have children and worry about them leaving the car unattended.

Some of these systems could be costly, but they are more secure than a standard car key. They keep track of your location to prevent you from accidentally locking or starting the car if you are too far away. Certain of these systems can assist you in finding your car in a garage, and others will notify you when you open or close the doors.

These systems can also be useful for businesses like property managers who manage office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to control access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those who have permissions are allowed to enter and exit the premises.

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 occasionally the key must be ordered from the manufacturer which could take several days. A dealer can usually do the job faster than a locksmith and may even cost less.

It is likely that the key fob will still require programming to your vehicle. This can be done through the dealer or Car Keys Replacement Cost reading the owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, as well as switching off or on lights and other electronic devices. It can even require pressing a set of buttons that functions as the code. This is often handled by the drivers, but it's always better to let a technician take care of it.

The year the model, make and year of the vehicle will impact the cost as well. Modern cars feature high-tech transponder chips that will need to be paired with the car by a locksmith or a dealer and the process could be more expensive.

A dealer who sells a specific brand of car will be more likely to know how to replace keys for that model. Some of the larger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler, have many models and are well-versed in keys.

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

It is recommended to get your spare key copied by a professional instead of getting a new one from a dealer. You will avoid paying more expensive rates for after-hours or weekend services. If you lose your keys you are assured that the duplicate will work.