Car Keys Replacement Cost

A few years ago, losing your keys to your car wasn't a big deal. You could take your spare keys to a key cutter and get an additional one for $10 or less.

However the process has become more complicated and costly. Find out about the various kinds and costs for car keys.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob is a remote control and an actual key in one. It's a small, plastic device that has buttons or buttons that you can push to unlock the doors and open the trunk or hatchback, roll down the windows, and possibly start the car. The key fob has an electronic chip embedded that communicates with your car's onboard systems for controlling functions like the starter.

Key fobs for basic use are typically made of standard plastic and are fitted with a standard lock and key mechanism. These are identical to those that were used on the old Pontiacs and Saturns. A basic key fob will cost anywhere between $50 to $100, however you'll pay more if you require a replacement for one that has been damaged or lost.

If your car was manufactured within the past five years, chances are you'll need to visit the dealer for a replacement fob as many newer vehicles require specialized equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or a key shop typically can do this for less however.

The cost of the fob you purchase can also depend on the type of fob you own. Older vehicles have mechanical keys, while the most recent models utilize transponder keys. Key fobs of both kinds are able to be fitted with a range of features. They can include keyless entry which locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically, or rolling codes that change frequently to keep thieves from stealing the data on your key fob.

It's possible to purchase an aftermarket key fob online at a lower cost than what you'd pay at a dealership however, they may not be compatible with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that block their key fobs from interfacing with third-party devices. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob if it's brought in, however it's very likely that it won't function.

You can get information on programming your key fob by looking up the website of the manufacturer or the owner's manual. You should try to do this yourself prior to paying for a locksmith or going to the dealer. You can also check your car's warranty, roadside assistance and auto-insurance coverage to see if these will cover the cost of a replacement remote car keys fob for your key.

Transponder Key

The majority of newer cars have keys that are known as transponder keys. These keys contain an embedded chip in 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 for starting the engine. This key type is more secure than standard flat metal keys since transponder chips prevent the car from starting if it fails to receive an appropriate signal from the key. This technology was designed to stop car theft since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these kinds of keys without the proper equipment.

Many vehicles are also equipped with immobilizers that stop them from starting when they are operated with a key that is not transponder. However, thieves have also developed methods to gain access and steal cars with transponder keys.

A locksmith can help replace your transponder key if it's damaged or lost. They'll need details of your vehicle, such as the VIN number and model. They will then either cut a new key or program the existing one to your car's system. This is a little more expensive than getting a car dealership to cut and program a new key.

Some auto stores, such as AutoZone and Walmart, are also capable of cutting and re-copying a transponder key, but they might not be able to reprogram the chip inside the key. If you want to be sure that a professional can handle the job, contact an experienced and trusted locksmith business.

Before the advent of technology like this it was quite simple to create duplicate keys for Replacement Remote Car Keys cars and then hot wire a car. This method of stealing cars was common and allowed criminals to enter and Replacement Remote Car Keys drive off with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced this crime, but it isn't entirely eliminated it completely.

You can contact an expert to handle this for you if you need an alternative transponder key or if you lost yours. The cost will be more than a traditional key but it is a much safer and more secure method to ensure that your car is not able to be started by anyone else.

Keyless Entry System

As increasing numbers of people seek convenience, safety and security, car key fobs are now a standard feature. They can open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, or start the engine without a physical key. But they can also take quite a beating 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 might require fob programming to connect your new one with your vehicle.

A standard key fob can cost around ten dollars to cut at the hardware store, however the most recent 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 to have it cut and programmed for your car.

Certain advanced car key systems allow you to use your phone as keys. With the application on your phone, you can remote lock or unlock your car and you can also switch your lights on and off, activate your parking brake, and perform other things based on your proximity to the car. They are perfect for people who reside in urban areas or parents who are worried about your kids leaving the car unsupervised.

Certain of these systems may be expensive, but they are more secure than a regular car key. They monitor your location to stop you from locking or starting the car if you're far away. Some of these systems can help you locate your car in a garage and others can notify you when you shut or open the doors.

These systems can also be useful for businesses like property managers who oversee vacation rentals or offices. These systems let them monitor 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 might feel that they have to go to the dealership when their keys are lost. The dealer will ask for proof of ownership and request keys from the manufacturer. This could take a few days. But a dealer can also typically complete the task for you faster than locksmiths, and they may have cheaper prices, as well.

The key fob could need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealer or by reading the owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors and turning lights and other electronic components on and off. It can even involve pressing a combination of buttons that acts like the code. It is usually performed by the driver but it is better to have a technician do it.

The cost will also be dependent on the year, make and type of vehicle. Modern cars come with sophisticated transponder chips which will require pairing with the vehicle by a locksmith or dealer and the process could be more costly.

A dealer who sells a specific model of car key replacements near me is more likely to know how to replace the keys for the vehicle. Some of the larger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have several models and are familiar with the keys.

Certain brands are more 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, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. Typically, these types of keys require reprogramming, which can be more difficult and more expensive than replacing the key itself.

It is best to have your spare key cloned by a specialist rather than purchasing an entirely new one from the dealer. That way you can avoid having to pay for the more expensive after-hours or weekend rates. If you lose your keys you can be sure that the cloned key will work.