Car Keys Replacement Cost

Not long ago, misplacing your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could take your spare key to a key cutter and get an alternative that cost $10 or less.

However the process has gotten more complex and expensive. Read on to learn about the different types of keys for cars and what they can cost you to replace.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob is a remote control and key in one. It's tiny, plastic device with a button that you can press to unlock doors or hatchbacks, open the trunk, lower windows and, possibly, even start the mobile car key replacement near me. The key fob has an electronic chip in it that communicates with your car's onboard systems for controlling functions such as the starter.

A basic key fob is generally made of plastic and uses a regular lock-and-key mechanism, such as 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, chances are you'll need to go to the dealership for a replacement fob, since many modern cars require specialized equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or a key shop can usually perform this task for less, however.

The cost of your fob can depend on the type you have. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, whereas the latest models usually have transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of key fobs can be equipped with a variety of features. They can include keyless entry, which locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically or rolling codes that are updated frequently to stop thieves from stealing the information on your key fob.

You may be able to buy an aftermarket key fob for less than what you'd pay at the dealership however, they may not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru, have security chips in their key fobs, which prevent them from working with third-party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in but there's a good possibility that it won't function.

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

Transponder Key

Most newer cars use a type of key called a transponder key. They have an embedded chip in the head that transmits a message to the vehicle after it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and start the engine. This key is more secure than a traditional flat metal keys because the transponder chip stops the car from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was designed to prevent theft of cars because it is nearly impossible to duplicate keys without the appropriate equipment.

Many cars are also equipped with immobilizers that stop them from starting when they are operated by keys that are not transponder. Car thieves have come up with methods of stealing cars with transponder key systems.

A locksmith can help you to replace your transponder keys if it's damaged or lost. They will need to have the information about your specific vehicle, including the VIN number along with the year, model and year. Then, they'll either cut a new key or program the current one to the car's system. This is a more expensive procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys.

Some automotive stores like AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and duplicate transponder keys however, they may not be capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. It is recommended to contact an experienced and reliable locksmith service to ensure that a professional is competent to complete the task.

It was fairly easy to make a duplicate key for a car and hot-wire a vehicle before the advent of this modern technology. This method of stealing cars was very frequent and allowed criminals to get into and drive off with stolen vehicles. The introduction of transponder keys has greatly reduced the likelihood of this happening however, it's not completely eliminated.

If you require a new transponder keys or you've lost yours, the best choice is to contact an expert and let them do it for you. It will cost more than a standard one, but it's a much safer and better option to ensure that someone else is unable to start your car.

Keyless Entry System

Car key fobs are now an everyday feature in cars as people are seeking convenience, safety and security. These tiny transmitters can open doors, activate the panic alarm and open the trunk and even start your car without having to have a physical key in your hands. They can also endure quite a beating from being used in a variety of ways, and they're more likely to get lost or stolen than the metal keys. It's expensive to replace them, and you may need to program your new key to pair it with your vehicle.

A basic key fob will cost around ten dollars to get cut at a hardware store, but the latest smart keys aren't cheap when you need to buy them and have them programmed. 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 sophisticated car key systems let you make use of your smartphone as an actual key. With the application on your phone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car and you can also switch your lights on and off, as well as activate your parking brake, and do 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 concerned about your children leaving the car unattended.

Some of these systems are expensive however, they're more secure than a standard car key because they can track your location and prevent you from accidentally locking the car or turning on the engine in case you're not close enough. They can also help you locate your car inside a parking garage, and some can warn you if the doors have been opened or closed.

These systems are also beneficial for businesses like property managers who oversee offices or vacation rentals. These systems let them control access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those with permissions are allowed in and out.

Dealership

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

The key fob may still need to be programmed for your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership, or by reading the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, and turning off the lights and other electronic devices on and off. It could even require pressing a series of buttons that act as codes. Most of the time, this is performed by the driver, but it is always better to have a technician do it.

The cost can also be affected by the year, model and year of vehicle. Modern cars come with advanced transponder chips that require pairing with the car by a locksmith or a dealer, and the process can be more expensive.

A dealer who sells a particular brand of car key replacement service near me will be more likely to be able to change keys for the model. Some of the larger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have a variety of models and are familiar with the keys.

Certain brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the more established brands that have shut down or are so old that they no longer produce keys are included. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are a few of the older companies that do not produce keys anymore. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these keys have to be reprogrammed, which can be more complicated and costly than replacing the key itself.

It is recommended that you have your spare key cloned by a specialist rather than purchasing a new one from the dealer. You can avoid paying the higher rates for after-hours and weekend services. If you do lose your keys you can rest assured that the key cloned will function.