Car Keys Replacement Cost

A few years ago, losing your keys to your car wasn't an issue. You could bring your spare key to a key cutter and get the replacement key for $10 or less.

However the process has gotten more complex and expensive. Learn about the various types and costs of keys for cars.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob can be described as an electronic remote and a key in one. It's tiny, plastic device with a button that you can push to unlock doors, open the hatchback or trunk, open windows, roll them down and, possibly, even start your car. The key fob also comes with an embedded electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard system to control functions like the starter.

A basic key fob is usually made of plastic and employs a lock-and key mechanism, such as the type you'd find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob costs anywhere between $50-$100, Car Keys Replacement Cost but you'll be charged more if you require a replacement for one that's been damaged or lost.

You'll probably need to visit the dealer if your car is more than five years old. A lot of newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or key shop will usually be capable of doing this for less.

The type of fob you have can also impact the cost. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, while latest models use transponder keys. Both are able to have a range of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically to rolling codes that change regularly to prevent thieves from taking and stealing your car's key fob data.

You might be able to purchase an aftermarket key fob at a lower cost than what you'd pay at a dealership however, they may not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru include security chips in their key fobs, which prevent them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealerships can program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in, but there's a good possibility that it won't work.

Read the owner's manual for your model or go to the manufacturer's site for more information about programming your particular model's key fob. It's a good idea to try this yourself prior to going to the dealership or hiring an expert locksmith to do it. You can also check your car's warranty and auto insurance policy to determine whether they cover the cost of replacing a key fob.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are used in the majority of newer automobiles. The keys have an embedded chip inside the head of the key that sends a signal to the vehicle when it is inserted into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and launching the engine. This key is more secure than a traditional flat metal key because the transponder chip blocks cars from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was developed to reduce car theft as it is almost impossible to duplicate these kinds of keys without the appropriate equipment.

Many vehicles are also equipped with immobilizers that stop them from being started if they are used with keys that do not have a transponder. However, car criminals have also come up with methods to gain access and steal cars with transponder keys.

A locksmith can help you replace your transponder key if it's damaged or stolen. They'll require the details about your specific vehicle, including the VIN number along with the year, model and year. Then, they'll cut a new one or program the one they have to your car's security system. This is a little more expensive than having a car dealership cut and program a new key.

Some automotive stores like AutoZone or Walmart can cut and copy transponder keys, Car Keys Replacement Cost but may not be capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. If you want to be sure that a professional will be able to handle the task, you should seek out a reputable and experienced locksmith business.

It was fairly easy to make duplicate keys for a car and then wire a vehicle prior to the advent of this modern technology. This was a method used to steal cars, and it allowed criminals to drive away with stolen vehicles. The advent of the transponder key has greatly reduced this activity however, it's not completely eliminated.

You can contact an expert to do this for you if you need an extra transponder key or if you've lost yours. The cost will be more than a traditional key but it is a much safer and more secure method to ensure that your car is not able to be started by anyone else.

Keyless Entry System

As increasing numbers of people want convenience, safety and security key fobs for cars are now a standard feature. These tiny transmitters can open doors, activate the alarm for panic and open the trunk and even start your car without having the physical key in your hands. They can be tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. It's expensive to replace them, and you might require programming your new fob to pair it with your vehicle.

A standard key fob can cost about ten dollars to cut at an hardware store, but the most recent smart keys aren't cheap if you want to purchase them 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 to fit in your car key battery replacement.

Some advanced car key systems allow you to use your phone as a key. You can lock or unlock your car via the app on your smartphone. You can also turn on and off your lights, activate your parking break, and do other things based on the proximity to the vehicle. They are perfect for people who reside in urban areas, or parents who are concerned about your children leaving the car unattended.

Certain of these systems can be expensive however they're also more secure than a regular car key as they locate you and prevent you from accidentally locking your car or turning off the engine if you're too far away. Some of these systems can help you locate your car in a garage and others can alert you if you open or close the doors.

These systems are also beneficial for companies such as property managers who manage offices or vacation rentals. These systems let them monitor access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those with permissions are allowed to enter and exit the premises.

Dealership

Some people may think that they must go to the dealer if keys go missing. They'll have to show proof of ownership, and occasionally the key must be purchased from the manufacturer, which could take a few days. A dealer will usually complete the job quicker than a locksmith and may even charge less.

It is likely that the key fob will require programming to your vehicle. This can be done through the dealer or looking up the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, and turning off the lights and other electronic devices on and off. It may even require pressing a set of buttons that function as a code. This can often be done by the drivers, but it is always best to let a technician handle it.

The year the car was manufactured, its model and make of the car will impact the price, too. Newer cars have advanced transponder chips that need to be paired with the car by a locksmith dealer, and the process can be more expensive.

A dealer that sells a particular brand of vehicle is more likely to know how to replace the keys for that particular vehicle. Some of the larger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a wide variety of models and are more acquainted with the keys for those models.

Certain brands are 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 being produced. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are some of the companies that are older and do not produce keys anymore. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. The keys are typically reprogrammed. This is more expensive and time-consuming than replacing the key.

If you have a spare key, it is usually best to have it cloned at a specialist instead of getting an alternative from the dealer. So, you don't have to worry about having to pay for the higher after-hours or weekend rates. If you lose your keys, you can be assured that the cloned one will work.