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 an additional one for $10 or less.

Today, however the process is more complex and costly. Find out more about the various types of car keys and how they'll cost you to replace.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob is both a remote and key in one. It's a small plastic device that houses one or more buttons that you push to unlock the doors and open the trunk or hatchback, lower the windows, and perhaps start the car. The key fob also has an electronic chip inside that communicates with the car's onboard computer system to control functions such as the starter.

A basic key fob is generally constructed of plastic that utilizes a standard lock-and-key mechanism, like the type you'd find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob will cost between $50 to $100, however you'll be charged more if you need to replace one that's been damaged or lost.

You'll likely need to visit the dealer if the car is newer than five years. Most newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or a key shop typically can do this for less, though.

The kind of fob you own can affect the price. 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 changing codes on a regular basis to deter thieves from intercepting and using your car's key fob data.

You may be able to purchase an aftermarket key fob for less than what you'd pay at the dealership, but these may not be compatible with your vehicle. Some manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from interacting with third-party devices. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob, if it's brought in, however it's highly unlikely that it will work.

You can find information about programming your key fob by looking up the site of the manufacturer or in the owner's guide. It is recommended to try this yourself first before paying for a locksmith or going to the dealer. You can also look at your car's warranty, roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance coverage to determine if they will cover the cost of a replacement key fob.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are used in the majority of newer automobiles. They have an embedded chip in the head of the key which transmits a signal the vehicle when it is inserted 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 because transponder chips stop the car from starting if it doesn't receive an appropriate signal from the key. This technology was created to reduce car theft because it is almost impossible to duplicate keys without the appropriate equipment.

Additionally, many vehicles also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting if keys that are not transponder compatible are used. However, criminals have also come up with methods to gain access and steal vehicles that have transponder keys.

A locksmith can help you to replace your transponder keys if it's damaged or lost. They'll require the details of your particular vehicle, including the VIN number along with the year, model and year. They'll either program the key you have to the car's system or cut a new one. This is a costlier process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.

Some automotive stores, like AutoZone and Walmart are also able to cut and copy the transponder key, however they might not be able to reprogram the chip inside the key. If you want to be sure that a professional will be able to handle the task, you should call a reputable and experienced locksmith business.

Before the advent of technology like this it was fairly simple to create duplicate car keys and then hot wire a vehicle. This method of stealing cars was very frequent and allowed criminals to enter and drive off with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have drastically reduced this crime, but they haven't completely eliminated it.

You can get an expert to do this for you if you require an alternative transponder key or if you've lost one. It will cost more than a standard key but it's a much safer and more secure option to ensure that anyone else will not be able to start your car.

Keyless Entry System

Car key replacement car fobs are becoming a standard feature of vehicles as more people want convenience, safety, and security. They can open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, and even start the engine without having a physical key. But they can also be subject to quite a beating from being tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen than the metal keys. This means they're costly to replace, and you might require fob programming in order to pair your new key with your vehicle.

The cost of cutting a basic key fob at an hardware store is around ten dollars. However, the newest smart keys can be expensive when you need to purchase them and then program them. It is possible to spend between $200 and $500 for the replacement key fob. This includes the cost to have it cut and programmed to fit in your car.

There are other more advanced car keys systems that allow you to make use of your smartphone as an actual key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle via the app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn on and off your lights, activate your parking break, as well as perform other tasks based on the distance you're to your vehicle. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas, or parents who are worried about your kids leaving the car unsupervised.

Some of these systems are costly however they're also more secure than a standard car key as they monitor your location and stop you from accidentally locking the car or turning the engine on in case you're not close enough. Certain systems will help you locate your vehicle in a garage, while others can notify you when you close or open the doors.

These kinds of systems could also be beneficial for businesses, such as property managers who manage office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems let them check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those who have permissions are allowed in and out.

Dealership

Some people believe that they should visit a dealer when keys are missing. They'll have to show proof of ownership, and occasionally the key has to be ordered from the manufacturer which can take a few days. A dealer will usually complete the job quicker than a locksmith and may even cost less.

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 referring to the owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, and turning on and off lights and other electronic devices. It may also require pressing a series of buttons that function as an electronic code. It is usually done by the driver, but it is better to have a technician do it.

The year the model, make and year of the car will affect the price as well. The cost of the service could also be affected by the year, model and model of the vehicle.

A dealer who sells a specific brand of car will be more likely to be able to change keys for that model. Some of the biggest manufacturers, like 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 been shut down or are so old that they no longer make keys are listed. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are among the companies that are older and have stopped producing keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these types of keys require reprogramming, which can be more difficult and more expensive than replacing the key itself.

It is recommended that you have your spare key cloned by a specialist rather than getting an entirely new one from a dealer. This way, you avoid paying the more expensive after-hours or weekend rates. If you lose your keys, you can be sure that the cloned one will function.