Car Keys Replacement Cost

A few years ago, losing your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could take your spare to key cutters and purchase a new one for just $10 or less.

Nevertheless the process has become more complex and expensive. Find out more about the various kinds of keys for cars and how they'll cost you to replace.

Basic Key Fob

Key fobs are an remote as well as a key in one. It's tiny, plastic device with a button that you can press to unlock doors, open the hatchback or trunk, open windows, roll them down and maybe even start the car. The key fob also comes with a built-in electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard computer system to control functions like the starter.

A basic key fob is generally made of plastic and utilizes a standard lock-and-key mechanism, like the kind you might find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost between $50 to $100, however you'll be charged more if you require a replacement for one that's lost or damaged.

You'll likely need to visit the dealer if your vehicle is newer than five years. A lot of newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or key shop will typically be able to do this for less.

The type of fob you're using can affect the price. Older vehicles have mechanical key fobs, while most recent models utilize transponder keys. Both of these types come with a variety of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the vehicle automatically to rolling codes that are updated regularly to prevent thieves from taking and stealing the data from your key fob.

Key fobs that are available online could be less expensive than ones you can buy at the dealer, but they may not work on your car. Some manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from working with third party devices. Some dealers can program an aftermarket key fob when it's purchased, but it's likely that it won't function.

You can find information about programming your key fob by visiting the manufacturer's site or the owner's guide. It's worth trying to do this yourself before going to the dealer or hiring an expert locksmith to do it. You can also check your car's warranty, auto-insurance policy and roadside assistance coverage to see if these will cover the cost of a replacement key fob.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are used in the majority of modern cars. They 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 launching the engine. This type of key is more secure than traditional flat metal keys because a transponder chip prevents the car from starting if it does not receive an appropriate signal from the key. This technology was created to stop car theft since it is nearly impossible to duplicate these keys without the proper equipment.

Many cars are also fitted with immobilizers that stop them from being started when they are operated with keys that do not have a transponder. However, car thieves have also developed methods to break into and steal cars with transponder keys.

A locksmith can help you repair your transponder key in the event that it is damaged or lost. They'll need information about your vehicle, such as the VIN number and model. They can then either program your existing key to the car's system or cut a new one. This is a more expensive process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.

Some auto stores, such as AutoZone and Walmart are also capable of cutting and copying a transponder key, but they might not be in a position to reprogram the chip inside the key. You should contact a reputable and experienced locksmith service to ensure that a professional will be capable of handling the job.

Before the invention of this technology it was fairly simple to create a duplicate car key and then hot wire a car. This method of stealing cars was common and allowed criminals to gain entry and drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have drastically reduced the risk of this crime, but not entirely eliminated it.

You can contact an expert to do this for you if you need an alternative transponder key or if you've lost one. It's more expensive than a standard one, but it's a safer and more secure alternative to ensure that someone else is unable to start your car.

Keyless Entry System

As more and more people demand Car Keys Replacement Cost convenience, safety and security, Car Keys Replacement Cost car key fobs have become a common feature. These tiny transmitters can open doors, set off the alarm that sounds a panic, open the trunk, and even start your car without having the physical key in your hand. They can also endure a lot of abuse from being used in a variety of ways, and are more likely to get lost or stolen than the metal keys. It's costly to replace them, and you might have to program your new fob to connect it with your vehicle.

A standard key fob can cost ten or so dollars to cut at an hardware store, but the most recent smart keys aren't cheap when you're looking to purchase them and have them programmed. You can expect to spend between $200 and $500 for the replacement key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed for your car.

There are other more advanced car keys systems that let you use your smartphone as a key. With the application on your smartphone, you can remotely 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. These are great for people who reside in urban areas, or if you're a parent that's worried about your children leaving the car unattended.

Some of these systems can be costly, but they are more secure than the standard car key. They track your location to prevent you from accidentally locking or starting the car when you are far from. Certain of these systems can assist you in finding your car in a garage and others can alert you if you close or open the doors.

These systems are also useful for businesses like property managers who oversee offices or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to monitor access rights of guests as well as cleaning staff and maintenance staff, as well as making sure that only those with the appropriate permissions are allowed to get in and out of the space.

Dealership

Some people might feel that they have to visit a dealership if their keys disappear. They will need to show proof of ownership, and sometimes the key car replacement must be ordered from the manufacturer, which could take a few days. But a dealer will usually get the job done for you faster than a locksmith, and they may have cheaper prices, too.

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 could also involve pressing a combination of buttons which acts as an electronic code. It is usually performed by the driver, but it is always better to have a technician do it.

The cost is also dependent on the year, make and type of vehicle. Modern cars feature advanced transponder chips that require pairing with the vehicle by a locksmith or a dealer and the process could be more costly.

A dealer who sells a particular brand of car will be more likely to have the knowledge to change keys for that model. Some of the biggest manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a wide number of models and are more familiar with the keys for those models.

Other brands are more difficult to work with. This includes a few of the older companies that have shut down, or are old enough to have keys that are no longer in production. 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 types of keys have to be reprogrammed, which can be more difficult and more expensive than replacing the key itself.

In general, if you have a spare key it is best to have it cloned at an expert instead of obtaining a replacement from the dealer. You will not have to pay the higher rates for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys, you can be assured that the cloned key will function.