Car Keys Replacement Cost

It wasn't long ago that misplacing car keys was not a major issue. You could bring your spare to an a key cutter and buy a new one for just $10 or Car Keys Replacement Cost less.

However, the process has become more complicated and costly. Learn about the different types and costs for car keys.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob can be described as an remote control as well as a key in one. It's a small plastic device that has a button or buttons that you press to unlock the doors and open the trunk or hatchback, lower the windows, and possibly start the car. The key fob comes with an electronic chip built in that communicates with your car's onboard systems to regulate functions like the starter.

Basic key fobs are made of standard plastic and utilize a standard lock and key mechanism. They are identical to those found on old Pontiacs as well as Saturns. A basic key fob costs anywhere between $50-$100, but you'll pay more if you need to replace one that has been damaged or lost.

If your car was built within the last five years, chances are that you'll need to go to the dealership for a replacement fob, as many newer cars require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith shop or key shop will usually be able to do this at a lower cost of a replacement car key.

The kind of fob you own can also impact the cost. Older cars have mechanical keys, whereas the latest models usually have transponder keys or smart keys. Key fobs of both types can come with a range of features. They may include keyless entry which locks and unlocks your car automatically or rolling codes that are updated regularly to prevent thieves from stealing the information on the key fob.

It's possible to buy an aftermarket key fob for less than what you'd pay at the dealership however they might not work with your car. Certain manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips that prevent their key fobs from interfacing with third party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket key fob if it's brought in, however it's very likely that it won't function.

You can find out more about programming your key fob by looking up the manufacturer's site or the owner's guide. It is recommended to try this yourself first before paying an expert locksmith or visiting the dealer. You can also check your vehicle's warranty, roadside assistance and auto-insurance coverage to see if these will cover the cost of a replacement fob for your key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are used in the majority of newer automobiles. The keys contain an embedded chip in the head which transmits an information to the vehicle once it is inserted in the ignition cylinder. The 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 stop the car from starting if it does not receive an appropriate 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 right equipment.

Many vehicles are also equipped with immobilizers which prevent them from being started when they are operated by a key that is not transponder. However, criminals have also come up with ways to gain access and steal cars with transponder keys.

A locksmith can assist you to replace your transponder keys if it's damaged or lost. They'll need information about your vehicle like the VIN number and model. They will then either program your existing key to the car's system or cut a new one. This is a little more expensive than simply cutting a key from a dealership and program a replacement key.

Some auto stores such as AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and copy transponder keys, but may not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. It is recommended to contact a reputable and experienced locksmith service to ensure that a professional will be able to handle the task.

Before the advent of technology like this, it was relatively easy to make duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a car. This technique was used to steal cars and it permitted criminals to steal stolen vehicles. The introduction of the transponder key has greatly reduced the likelihood of this happening but it's not completely eliminated.

You can contact an expert to handle this for you in the event that you require an extra transponder key or if you've lost one. It's more expensive than a standard key however it's a safer and better option to ensure that anyone else will not be able to 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 transmitters can open doors, trigger the panic alarm, open the trunk, or start the engine without a physical key. They can be thrown around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. That means they're expensive to replace, and you might require fob programming in order to pair the new key with your vehicle.

A standard key fob can cost about ten dollars to get cut at an hardware store, but the most recent smart keys can be expensive if you want to purchase them and have them programmed. Depending on your vehicle make and model you could expect to shell out between $200-$500 for a replacement fob plus the cost of cutting it and programming it to your vehicle.

Some advanced car key cover replacement key systems let you use your phone as a key. You can lock or unlock your car by using an app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, turn on your parking break, and perform other tasks based on the distance you're to the vehicle. These apps are ideal for those who live in urban areas or have children and are worried about children leaving the car unattended.

Some of these systems could be costly, but they are more secure than the standard car key. They keep track of your location to prevent you from locking or opening the car if you're far away. They can also assist you to locate your car inside parking garages and can even warn you when the doors are shut or opened.

These kinds of systems can also be useful for businesses, such as property managers who oversee vacation rentals or office spaces. These systems are able to monitor access rights for guests as well as cleaning staff and maintenance personnel, while making sure that only those with the right permissions can get into and out of the space.

Dealership

Some people feel they must visit a dealer when their keys are missing. They will need to show proof of ownership, and sometimes the key has to be ordered from the manufacturer, which can take a few days. A dealer will usually complete the job faster than a locksmith, and might even cost less.

It is likely that the key fob will require programming to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership, or by referring to your owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, as well as switching off or on lights and other electronic devices. It may even require pressing a set of buttons that act as an electronic code. This is often handled by the driver, but it's best to let an expert take care of it.

The year the model, make and year of the car will affect the cost as well. Newer cars have advanced transponder chips that need to be paired with the car by a locksmith or dealer, and the process can be more costly.

A dealer that sells a certain model will be more likely to have the knowledge to replace keys for that model. Some of the biggest manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a wide variety 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 some of the more established firms that have been shut down or are old enough to have keys that are no longer being produced. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Car Keys Replacement Cost Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. These keys are usually reprogrammed. This can be more expensive and difficult than replacing the key.

If you have a spare key, it is usually best to get it copied by an expert instead of obtaining an exchange from the dealer. You will not have to pay the higher rates for after-hours and weekend services. If you do lose your keys, you can rest assured that the copied key will work.