Car Keys Replacement Cost

It wasn't long ago that losing keys to your car was not a problem. You could take your spare to a key cutter and get a new one for $10 or less.

Today, however, the process is more complicated and costly. Find out more about the various types of keys for cars and what they will cost you to replace.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob can be described as an electronic remote control and a key in one. It's a small, plastic device equipped with a button which you can push to unlock doors and hatchbacks, open the trunk, lower windows and maybe even start your car. The key fob comes with an electronic chip embedded that communicates with your car's onboard systems to control functions such as the starter.

A basic key fob is typically constructed of plastic that 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 and $100, but the actual cost is when you need to replace a lost or damaged one.

If your car was built in the last five years, the chances that you'll have to visit the dealership to get a replacement car keys price fob since many modern cars require special equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith or key shop will typically be able to do this at a lower cost.

The type of fob you have can also impact the cost. Older vehicles use mechanical key fobs, while the most recent models typically have transponder keys or smart keys. Both can have a wide range of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the car automatically to rolling codes that are updated regularly to deter thieves from intercepting and stealing your car's key fob data.

Online key fobs may be less expensive than the ones you can get from the dealer, but they may not be compatible with your car. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru, have security chips in their key fobs that prevent them from working with third-party devices. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob, if it's brought in, but it's highly unlikely that it will work.

Check your owner's manual or visit the manufacturer's website for information about programming your particular model's key fob. Try to do this yourself first before paying a locksmith or going to the dealer. You can also look into your car's warranty and auto insurance policy to see if they cover the cost of a new key fob.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are found in the majority of newer automobiles. They have embedded chips in the head that transmits an electronic message to the vehicle after it is inserted in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and for starting the engine. This key is more secure than the conventional flat metal key due to the transponder chip stops a car from starting without the proper signal. This technology was created to stop car theft since it is nearly impossible to duplicate keys without the appropriate equipment.

Many vehicles are also equipped with immobilizers which prevent them from being started if they are used with a key that is not transponder. However, thieves have also devised methods to steal and break into cars that are equipped with transponder keys.

A locksmith can usually help you replace the damaged or lost transponder key. They will need to have the details about your specific vehicle, including the VIN number, model and year. They will then either program your current key to the car's system or cut new keys. This is a more costly process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.

Some auto stores such as AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and duplicate transponder keys but may not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. If you want to be sure that a professional will be able to handle the job, contact an experienced and trusted locksmith service.

Before the invention of technology like this it was fairly easy for someone to make duplicate car keys and then hot wire a vehicle. This method of stealing cars was very common and allowed criminals to get into and drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have greatly reduced this crime, but not entirely eliminated it completely.

If you need a replacement transponder key, or have lost yours, the best solution is to contact a professional and have them make it for you. The cost will be more than a traditional key but it's a safer and better way to ensure that your vehicle cannot be started by someone else.

Keyless Entry System

As increasing numbers of people want convenience, safety and security keys for their cars are now a standard feature. They are able to open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, and even start the engine without the physical key. But they can also take a lot of abuse from being tossed around and they're more likely to be lost or stolen than metal keys. It's expensive to replace them, programmed and you might need to program your new fob to connect it with your vehicle.

A basic key fob costs around ten dollars to cut at a hardware store, but the latest smart keys can be expensive if you're looking to purchase the keys and have them programmed. It is possible to spend between $200 and $500 on an alternative 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 smartphone as keys. You can lock or unlock your vehicle remotely using the app on your phone. You can also turn on and off your lights, turn on your parking break, and do other tasks based on the proximity to your vehicle. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas, or if you have children and worry about them leaving the car unattended.

Some of these systems are costly however, they're more secure than a standard car key because they can locate you and prevent you from locking the car or turning the engine on if you're too far away. Certain systems can assist you in finding your car in a garage, and others will notify you when you open or close the doors.

These kinds of systems could also be beneficial for companies, such as property managers who oversee vacation rentals or office spaces. These systems allow them to monitor access rights for guests, cleaning staff, and maintenance staff, as well as ensuring that only those who have 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'll have to show proof of ownership, and occasionally the key must be ordered from the manufacturer, which could take several days. However, a dealer can typically complete the task for you much faster than locksmiths, and they might have lower prices, too.

It is likely that the key fob will still need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by looking up the owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, as well as switching off or on lights and other electronic devices. It could even require pressing a set of buttons that act as an electronic code. This can often be done by the driver, but it is always best to let a technician handle it.

The year the car was manufactured, its model and make of the vehicle will affect the price, too. Newer cars have high-tech transponder chips that will need to be paired with the vehicle by a locksmith or dealer and the process may be more costly.

A dealer who sells a specific brand of vehicle is more likely to be able to replace the keys for that particular vehicle. Some of the larger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have several models and are familiar with the keys.

Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have shut down or are old enough that they no longer manufacture keys are included. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. Typically, these kinds of keys require reprogramming and can be more complicated and costly than replacing the key itself.

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