Car Keys Replacement Cost

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

Today, however, the process can be more complicated and expensive. Learn more about the various types of keys for cars and how they'll cost you to replace.

Basic Key Fob

Key fobs are a remote control and key in one. It's a small, plastic device equipped with a button which you can press to unlock doors and hatchbacks, open the trunk, open windows, roll them down, and possibly even start the car. The key fob has a built-in electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard system to control functions like the starter.

Basic key fobs are made from standard plastic, and utilize a standard lock and key mechanism. These are similar to the ones that were used on the old Pontiacs and Saturns. A basic key fob can cost anywhere from $50 to $100, but the real cost is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one.

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

The cost of your fob can be affected by the type you own. Older vehicles use mechanical key fobs, whereas modern models usually come with transponder keys or smart keys. Key fobs of both kinds can come with a range of features. They could include keyless entry, which locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically or rolling codes that are changed frequently to keep thieves from stealing the data on the key fob.

Key fobs that are available online could be less expensive than the ones you can purchase from a dealer, but they might not work on your car. Certain manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips that block their key fobs from interacting with third party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in but there's a good possibility that it won't work.

Go through your owner's manual or search the manufacturer's website for information on programming your specific model's key fob. It's worth trying this yourself prior to going to the dealer or hiring a locksmith to do it. You can also look into your car's warranty and auto insurance policy to see whether they cover the cost of a brand new key fob.

Transponder Key

Most modern cars utilize a type of key called transponder keys. The keys have an embedded chip in the head of the key that transmits a signal to the vehicle when it is put into 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 keys because the transponder chip stops the car from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was created to stop car theft since it is nearly impossible to duplicate keys without the appropriate equipment.

Many cars are also fitted with immobilizers which prevent the vehicle from starting if they are used with keys that are not transponder. However, car thieves have also devised methods to break into and steal cars that are equipped with transponder keys.

A locksmith can usually assist you in replacing the damaged or lost transponder key. 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 the key you have to the car's system, or cut an entirely new one. This is a little more expensive than having a car dealership cut and program a new key.

Some stores for automotive, such as AutoZone and Walmart can also be capable of cutting and copying a transponder key, but they might not be capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. It is best to call an experienced and reputable locksmith company if you want to ensure that a professional will be competent to complete the task.

It was fairly easy to create a duplicate key for a car, and then hot-wire a car prior to the advent of this new technology. This method of stealing cars was common and allowed criminals to enter and drive away with stolen vehicles. The advent of transponder keys has greatly reduced the likelihood of this happening but it's not completely eliminated.

If you require a new transponder key, or have lost yours, the best option is to call an expert and let them do it for you. It will cost more than a standard key but it's a safer and better alternative to ensure that someone else cannot start your car.

Keyless Entry System

As increasing numbers of people seek convenience, safety and security key fobs for cars have become a standard feature. These tiny devices can unlock doors, set off the panic alarm and open the trunk and even start your engine without needing to have a physical key in your hands. However, they also endure some abuse from being used in a variety of ways, and they are more likely to get lost or stolen than traditional keys. That means they're expensive to replace, and you might require fob programming in order to pair your new key with your vehicle.

The cost of replacement car key of cutting a basic key fob at a hardware store is about 10 dollars. However, the latest smart keys can be costly if you must purchase them, as well as program them. You can expect to spend between $200 and $500 for the replacement key fob. This includes the cost to have it cut and programmed for your vehicle.

Some sophisticated car key systems let you use your smartphone as a key. You can lock or unlock your car remotely using the app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn on and off your lights, turn on your parking break, as well as perform other tasks based on the proximity to your car. This is ideal for people who live in urban areas or if you have kids and worry about your children being in the car without supervision.

Certain of these systems are expensive however, they're more secure than a standard car key as they locate you and prevent you from accidentally locking your car or turning off the engine in case you're not close enough. They can also help you find your car in parking garages, and some can warn you if the doors are opened or closed.

These kinds of systems could also be beneficial for companies, such as property managers who oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems can allow them to monitor access rights for guests, cleaning staff, and maintenance workers, while making sure that only those with the right permissions can get in and out of the space.

Dealership

Some people believe that they should go to the dealer if keys are missing. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership and may order keys from the manufacturer. This could take a few days. A dealer will usually complete the job quicker than a locksmith, and might even charge less.

The key fob could need to be programmed for your car. This can be done at the dealership, or by consulting the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, as well as switching off or Programmers on lights and other electronic devices. It may also require pressing a number of buttons that function as a code. Most of the time, this is performed by the driver but it is better to have a technician perform it.

The year the car was manufactured, its model and make of the car will impact the price, too. The cost of the service could be affected by the year, model and model of the vehicle.

A dealer that sells a specific model of vehicle is more likely to be able to replace the keys for that particular vehicle. Some of the bigger manufacturers, Programmers like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have a variety of models and are well-versed in keys.

Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have closed or are so old that they no longer manufacture keys are listed. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn, and Eagle. The keys are typically reprogrammed. This can be more expensive and difficult than replacing the key.

In general, if you have a spare key it is best to duplicate it at a specialist instead of getting an alternative from the dealer. You can avoid paying the higher prices for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys you can be assured that the duplicate will work.