Car Keys Replacement Cost

Not long ago, misplacing your car key battery replacement keys wasn't a big deal. You could take your spare keys to a key cutter and get a new one for $10 or less.

Nowadays, however, the process can be more complicated and expensive. Learn more about the different types of keys for cars and what they can cost you to replace.

Basic Key Fob

Key fobs are an remote as well as a key in one. It's a small, plastic device that houses one or more 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 has 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 standard plastic and employs a lock-and key mechanism, such as the kind you might find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob could cost anything from $50 to $100, but the real price is when you need to replace a lost or damaged one.

You'll likely have to visit a dealer if your vehicle is newer than five years. Most newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or a key shop is usually able to do this at a lower cost.

The cost of your fob can be affected by the type you own. Older vehicles have mechanical key fobs while the modern models have transponder keys. Both types of key fobs can come with a range of features. They can include keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically, or rolling codes that change frequently to stop thieves from stealing the information on the key fob.

Online key fobs may be less expensive than ones you can get from the dealer, but they may not be compatible with your car. Certain manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from interfacing with third-party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket key fob when it's brought in, but it's likely that it won't function.

You can get information on programming your key fob by searching the website of the manufacturer or the owner's guide. It's a good idea to try this yourself before going to the dealer or hiring an expert locksmith to do it. You may also want to check your car's warranty and auto insurance policy to see whether they cover the cost of a new key fob.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are utilized in the majority of newer automobiles. These keys have embedded chips in the head that transmits a message to the vehicle after it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and starting the engine. This type of key is more secure than standard flat metal keys since transponder chips stop the car from starting if it fails to receive the right signal from the key. This technology was created to prevent theft of cars since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these kinds of keys without the appropriate equipment.

Many vehicles are also equipped with immobilizers that prevent them from being started when they are operated by keys that are not transponder. Car thieves have devised methods of stealing cars with transponder key systems.

A locksmith can assist you to replace your transponder keys if it's damaged or lost. They'll need details about your car including the VIN number and model. Then, they'll cut a new one or program the existing one to the car's system. This is a costlier process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.

Some automotive stores, like AutoZone and Walmart can also be able to cut and copy the transponder key, however they might not be in a position to reprogram the chip inside the key. It is best to call an experienced and reputable locksmith company if you want to ensure that a professional will be able to handle the task.

It was relatively easy to create duplicate keys for a car and wire a vehicle prior to the advent of this modern technology. This method of stealing vehicles was common and allowed criminals to enter and drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have greatly reduced this crime, but not entirely eliminated it completely.

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

Keyless Entry System

Car key fobs are becoming a standard feature in vehicles as more people want convenience, safety and security. They can open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, or even start the engine without having an actual key. However, they also take a lot of abuse from being tossed around, and they're more likely to get lost or stolen than traditional keys. This means they're costly to replace, and you could require fob programming in order to pair the new key with your vehicle.

The cost of cutting a standard key fob at a hardware shop is around 10 dollars. However, the most recent smart keys can be costly if you have to buy them and then program them. You should expect to pay between $200 and $500 for the replacement key fob. This includes the cost to have it cut and programmed to fit in your car.

Some advanced car key systems allow you to use your smartphone as a key. You can lock or unlock your car key replacement service remotely using the app on your phone. You can also turn on and off your lights, activate your parking break, and perform other tasks depending on how close you are to your vehicle. These are perfect for those who reside in urban areas, or have children and are worried about your children being in the car without supervision.

Some of these systems can be expensive, but are more secure than a regular car key. They keep track of your location to prevent you from locking or opening the car if you are far away. Some of these systems will help you locate your car in a garage, and others will notify you when you shut or open the doors.

These systems are also beneficial for businesses such as property managers who manage offices or vacation rentals. These systems permit them to check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those who have permissions are allowed to enter and Car Keys Replacement Cost exit the premises.

Dealership

Some people believe they need to visit a dealer when keys are missing. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership and may request keys from the manufacturer. This could take several days. A dealer will usually complete the job more quickly than a locksmith and could even charge less.

It is likely that the key fob will need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership, or by reading your owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors, and turning off lights and other electronic components on and off. It may even require pressing a set of buttons that function as codes. It is usually performed by the driver, however, it is best to have a technician do it.

The year the model, make and year of the car will have an impact on the price, too. Modern cars come with high-tech transponder chips that will require pairing with the vehicle by a locksmith or a dealer and the process could be more expensive.

A dealer who sells a particular model of car is more likely to be able to change keys for the model. Some of the bigger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler, have many models and are familiar with keys.

Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the more established brands that have been shut down or are old enough that they no longer manufacture keys are included. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn, and Eagle. Typically, these types of keys require reprogramming which is more difficult and more expensive than replacing the key itself.

It is recommended to have your spare key cloned by a professional rather than buying a new one from a dealer. You can avoid paying the higher prices for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys, you are assured that the duplicate will function.