Car Keys Replacement Cost

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys to your emergency car key replacement was not a major issue. You could bring your spare to key cutters and purchase a new one for $10 or less.

However the process has become more complicated and costly. Find out more about the various types of keys for cars and what they'll cost you to replace them.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob is both an electronic remote and a key in one. It's tiny, plastic device equipped with a button which can be pushed to open doors or hatchbacks, open the trunk, open windows, roll them down, and possibly even start the vehicle. The key fob has an electronic chip inside that communicates with the car's onboard system to manage functions such as the starter.

A basic key fob is usually made of standard plastic and employs a 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 to $100, however you'll be charged more if you need to replace one that's lost or damaged.

If your car was made within the past five years, chances are that you'll need to visit the dealer for a replacement fob, as many newer cars require specialized equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or key shop is usually capable of doing this for less.

The cost of the fob you purchase can depend on the type of fob you have. Older vehicles use mechanical key fobs, whereas the most recent models typically have transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of keys are able to have a range of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the car in a controlled manner to rolling codes that change regularly to deter thieves from intercepting and stealing your car's key fob data.

Key fobs purchased online may be cheaper than those you can purchase from a dealer, but they might not be compatible with your car. Certain manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru, have security chips inside their key fobs, which prevent them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealers will program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in but there's a good possibility that it won't function.

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

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are utilized in the majority of newer automobiles. These keys contain an embedded chip in the key's head which transmits a signal the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. The signal is used to unlock the car and start the engine. This type of key is more secure than conventional flat metal keys since transponder chips stop the car from starting if it doesn't receive the right signal from the key. This technology was created to reduce car theft as it is almost impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the appropriate equipment.

Many cars are also equipped with immobilizers that prevent them from starting if they are used with keys that do not have a transponder. However, car criminals have also come up with ways to break into and steal cars with transponder keys.

A locksmith is usually able to help you replace a lost or damaged transponder key. They'll need details of your vehicle, such as the VIN number and model. They will then cut a new one 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 cut and copy transponder keys but they aren't capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. If you want to ensure that a professional is able to complete the task, you should call a reputable and experienced locksmith service.

Before the advent of this technology it was fairly easy to make duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a car. This method of stealing cars was very frequent and allowed criminals to enter and drive away with stolen vehicles. The advent of the transponder key has greatly reduced the likelihood of this happening however, it's not completely eliminated.

You can contact an expert to do this for you in the event that you require an extra transponder key or if you've lost yours. The cost will be higher than a standard key, however it's a safer and more secure method to ensure that your vehicle is not able to be started by anyone else.

Keyless Entry System

Car key fobs are now a standard feature of vehicles, as more and more people seek convenience, safety and security. They can open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, or even start the engine without a physical key. They can be tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. It's costly to replace keys, and you might require programming your new fob to connect it with your vehicle.

The cost of cutting a standard key fob at a hardware store is about ten dollars. However, the most recent smart keys can be expensive if you have to buy them as well as programme them. Based on the make and model, you can expect to pay anywhere from $200-$500 for a replacement fob, plus the cost of having it cut and programmed to your vehicle.

There are also more advanced car key systems that let you make use of your smartphone as a key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle via the app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, turn on your parking break, as well as perform other things based on the proximity to your vehicle. They are perfect for people who live in urban areas, or parents who are concerned about your children leaving the car without supervision.

Some of these systems could be costly, but they are more secure than a standard car key. They track your location to prevent you from accidentally locking or starting the car when you are far away. They also can help you locate your car in parking garages and even alert you when the doors are opened or closed.

These kinds of systems can 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 with permissions are permitted to enter and exit.

Dealership

Some people might feel that they must visit a dealership if their keys disappear. The dealer will request proof of ownership and may order keys from the manufacturer. This could take a few days. A dealer is usually able to complete the job quicker than a locksmith and might even cost less.

It is likely that the key fob will need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done either through the dealer or looking up the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, as well as turning lights and other electronics on and off. It may even require pressing a series of buttons which act as codes. Often, this can be performed by the driver but it is always better to have a technician perform it.

The year, make and model of the car will impact the price, too. The cost of the service may also be affected by the year, make and model of the vehicle.

A dealer who sells a specific brand of vehicle is more likely to know how to replace the keys for that particular vehicle. Some of the bigger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a huge number of models and are more familiar with the keys for the specific models.

Some brands are harder to work with. Some of the older brands that have been shut down or are old enough that they no longer make keys are included. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. The keys are typically reprogrammed. This is more expensive and complicated than replacing the key.

If you have a spare key it is best to duplicate it at an expert instead of obtaining an exchange from the dealer. That way you can avoid having to pay for the more expensive after-hours or weekend rates. If you lose your keys you can be assured that the cloned one will work.