Car Keys Replacement Cost

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

Today, however, the process is more complicated and expensive. Learn more about the different types of keys for cars and what they will cost you to replace.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob can be described as a remote and key in one. It's a small, plastic piece with a button that you can push to unlock doors, open the hatchback or trunk, roll down windows and, possibly, even start the vehicle. The key fob also has a built-in electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard computer system to control functions like the starter.

A basic key fob is generally made of standard plastic and uses a regular lock-and-key mechanism, such as the kind you might find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob may cost anything from $50 to $100, but the true cost comes when you have to replace a lost or damaged one.

You'll likely have to visit the dealer if the car is older than five years old. Most newer vehicles require special equipment to code and programme new keys. A locksmith or key shop will usually be able to do this for less, though.

The type of fob you're using will also affect the price. Older cars have mechanical key fobs, while the most recent models typically have transponder keys or smart keys. Both of these types are able to have a range of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the car in a controlled manner to changing codes on a regular basis to deter thieves from intercepting and stealing the data from your key fob.

You may be able to buy an aftermarket key fob online for less than the price you'd pay at the dealership, but these may not work with your car. Certain manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips that block their key fobs from working with third party devices. Some dealerships will program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in but there's a good chance that it won't work.

You can get information on programming your key replacement car fob by searching the manufacturer's site or Car Keys Replacement the owner's manual. You should try to do this yourself before hiring an expert locksmith or visiting the dealer. You can also look at the warranty of your vehicle, the roadside assistance and auto-insurance policy to see if they will cover the cost of a replacement fob for your key.

Transponder Key

Most newer cars use a type of key called transponder keys. The keys contain an embedded chip in the head that sends a message 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 the traditional flat metal key because the transponder chip stops a car from starting without the proper signal. This technology was developed to prevent theft of cars since it is almost impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the proper equipment.

Many cars are also equipped with immobilizers that stop the vehicle from starting when they are operated with a key that is not transponder. However, car thieves have also developed methods to break into and steal vehicles that have transponder keys.

A locksmith is usually able to assist you in replacing the damaged or lost transponder key. They will need to have the information about your specific vehicle, including the VIN number, model and year. They'll either program your existing key to the car's computer system or cut a new one. This is a little more expensive than simply having a car dealership cut 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 the chip inside the key. If you want to ensure that a professional will be able to handle the task, you should seek out a reputable and experienced locksmith company.

Before the advent of technology like this it was quite simple to create a duplicate car key and then hot wire a car. This method of stealing vehicles was common and allowed criminals to gain entry and drive off with stolen vehicles. The advent of the transponder key has greatly reduced the likelihood of this happening, but it is not completely eliminated.

If you need a new transponder key or you have lost yours, the best choice is to call an expert and have them make it for you. The cost will be higher than a traditional key but it is a much safer and more secure method to ensure that your vehicle can't be started by anyone else.

Keyless Entry System

As increasing numbers of people want convenience, safety and security key fobs for cars are now a standard feature. These devices can open doors, trigger the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, and even start the engine without a physical key. They can be tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. This means they're costly to replace, and you could need fob programming to pair your new one with your vehicle.

The cost of cutting a basic key fob in a hardware shop is around ten dollars. However, the latest smart keys can be expensive when you need to purchase them and then program them. It is possible to spend between $200 and $500 for an alternative key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed to fit in your car.

There are also more advanced car key systems that allow you to use your smartphone as a key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle via the app on your phone. You can also turn on and off your lights, turn on your parking break, and do other tasks based on the distance you're to the 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 could be costly, but they are more secure than a regular car key. They track your location to prevent you from accidentally locking or starting the car if you are too far from. They can also help you find your car in parking garages and even alert you if the doors are open or closed.

These kinds of systems can also be beneficial to businesses, like property managers that oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those who have permissions are permitted to enter and exit.

Dealership

Some people may feel that they must visit a dealership if their keys disappear. The dealer will request proof of ownership and order the key from the manufacturer. This could take a few days. But a dealer can also typically complete the task for you quicker than locksmiths, and might have lower prices, too.

It is likely that the key fob will still require programming to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership, or by referring to the owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors, and turning off lights and other electronics on and off. It may also require pressing a number of buttons which act as a code. Often, this can be performed by the driver, but it is always better to have a technician perform it.

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

A dealer that sells a specific brand of vehicle is more likely to know how to replace keys for that particular vehicle. Some of the bigger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a wide number of models and are more familiar with the keys that are used for the specific models.

Certain brands are difficult to work with. This includes some of the older companies that have closed, or are old enough to have keys that are no longer being produced. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. Typically, these keys require reprogramming which is more complicated and costly than replacing the key itself.

If you have a spare key it is recommended to duplicate it at an expert instead of obtaining an exchange from the dealer. So, you don't have to worry about having to pay the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. Then, if you lose your keys, you can rest assured that the copied key will work.