Car Keys Replacement Cost

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing car keys was not a problem. You could take your spare to a key cutter and get a new one for $10 or less.

However the process has gotten more complex and expensive. Learn about the different types and costs of car keys.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob can be described as a remote control and an actual key in one. It's a tiny plastic device that houses buttons or buttons that you can push to unlock the doors and trunk, open the hatchback, lower the windows, and possibly start the car. The key fob also comes with a built-in electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard system to control functions like the starter.

A basic key fob is generally made of plastic and utilizes a standard lock-and-key mechanism, such as the type you'd find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost between $50 to $100, however you'll pay more if you need to replace one that has been lost or damaged.

If your car was made within the past five years, chances that you'll have to go to the dealership for Car Keys Replacement Cost a replacement fob, as many newer vehicles require specialized equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or a key shop will usually be capable of doing this at a lower cost.

The cost of your fob could also depend on the type of fob you have. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, while modern models have transponder keys. Key fobs of both kinds can come with a variety of features. They may include keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically, or rolling codes that change frequently to keep thieves from stealing the data on your key fob.

Key fobs that are available online could be less expensive than the ones you can buy at the dealer, but they may not be compatible with your car. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from working with third party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in but there's a good chance 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's worth trying this yourself before heading to the dealership or hiring an expert locksmith. You can also check the warranty of your vehicle, the roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance coverage to see if these cover the costs of a replacement key fob.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are used in the majority of modern cars. The keys have an embedded chip inside the key's head that transmits a signal to the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and begin the engine. This key type is more secure than traditional flat metal keys since transponder chips prevent the car from starting if it does not receive the right signal from the key. This technology was developed to reduce car theft as it is almost impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the appropriate equipment.

Many vehicles are also equipped with immobilizers that stop them from starting when they are operated with keys that do not have a transponder. car key replacement service thieves have developed methods of stealing cars with transponder key systems.

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

Some automotive stores, like AutoZone and Walmart, are also capable of cutting and copying the transponder keys, however they might not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. If you want to ensure that a professional is able to complete the task, you should contact an experienced and trusted locksmith business.

Before the advent of this technology, it was relatively easy for someone to make a duplicate car key and then hot wire a car. This method of stealing cars was frequent and allowed criminals to enter and drive off with stolen vehicles. The introduction of the transponder key has greatly reduced this activity however, it's not completely eliminated.

You can contact a professional to do this for you if you need an alternative transponder key or if you lost yours. It will cost more than a standard one, but it's a much safer and better option to ensure that someone else will not be able to start your car.

Keyless Entry System

Car key fobs are becoming an everyday feature in cars, as more and more people seek convenience, safety and security. They can open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, and even start the engine without having the physical key. They can also endure a lot of abuse from being tossed around, and are more likely to be lost or stolen than the metal keys. They're also expensive to replace, and you could require fob programming in order to pair the new key with your vehicle.

A basic key fob will cost ten or so dollars to get cut at the hardware store, however the latest smart keys can be expensive if you want to purchase the keys and have them programmed. You should expect to pay between $200 and $500 for a replacement key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed for your vehicle.

There are other more advanced car keys systems that let you use your smartphone as an actual key. With the application on your phone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car and you can also turn your lights on and off, activate your parking brake, and perform other things depending on your proximity to the car. These apps are ideal for those who live in urban areas, or parents who are concerned about your children leaving the car unattended.

Some of these systems are expensive however, they're more secure than a regular car key since they locate you and prevent you from locking the car or turning the engine on if you're too far away. They can also assist you to locate your car in garages that have parking spaces and can even warn you if the doors are opened or closed.

These kinds of systems could also be useful for businesses, like property managers who oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems are able to monitor access rights of guests cleaners, guests, and maintenance workers, while making sure that only those with the proper permissions can go into and out of the space.

Dealership

Some people may think that they need to go to the dealership when keys go missing. They'll have to show proof of ownership, and occasionally the key has to be ordered from the manufacturer, which can take a few days. However, a dealer can usually get the job done for you quicker than locksmiths, and they may have cheaper prices, too.

The key fob may still require programming for your car. This can be done at the dealership or by looking up the owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors and turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off. It could even involve pressing a series of buttons that functions as the code. Most of the time, this is performed by the driver, but it is better to have a technician perform it.

The cost can also be dependent on the year, make and type of vehicle. The cost of the service may be affected by the year, make and model of the vehicle.

A dealer who sells a specific model of car is more likely to know how to replace keys for that model. Some of the bigger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a huge number of models, and are more familiar with the keys for the models they sell.

Certain brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have been shut down or are so old that they no longer make keys are included. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are a few of the older companies that no longer produce keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these kinds of keys need to be reprogrammed, which can be more complicated and costly than replacing the key itself.

It is recommended that you get your spare key copied by a professional instead of purchasing another one from a dealer. This way, you avoid paying the more expensive after-hours or weekend rates. If you lose your keys, you can be assured that the duplicate will work.