Car Keys Replacement Cost

In the past, losing your keys to your car wasn't an issue. You could take your spare keys to a key cutter and get a new one for $10 or less.

Nevertheless, the process has become more complicated and costly. Read on to learn about the different types of keys for cars and how they'll cost you to replace.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob is a remote control and repairer a key in one. It's tiny, plastic device equipped with a button which you can press to unlock doors, open the hatchback or trunk, roll down windows and maybe even start the vehicle. The key fob also has an embedded electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard system to manage functions like the starter.

Basic key fobs are made of standard plastic and are fitted with a standard lock and key mechanism. They're identical to those that were used on the old Pontiacs and Saturns. A basic key fob costs between $50 and $100, but you'll pay more if need to replace one that's been damaged or repairer lost.

If your car was built in the last five years, chances that you'll have to visit the dealer for a cheapest replacement car keys fob, as many newer cars require specialized equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith shop or key shop is usually able to do this at a lower cost.

The cost of the fob you purchase can also be affected by the type you own. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, while modern models have transponder keys. Both types of keys come with a variety of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle instantly to changing codes on a regular basis to deter thieves from intercepting and stealing your car's key fob data.

You might be able to purchase an aftermarket key fob for less than the price you'd pay at the dealer, but these may not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips that prevent their key fobs from interfacing with third party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket key fob if it's brought in, however it's likely that it won't function.

Go through your owner's manual or go to the manufacturer's site for information about programming your particular model's key fob. Try to do this yourself prior to paying a locksmith or going to the dealer. You may also want to check the warranty on your vehicle and the auto-insurance policy to determine whether they cover the cost of a brand new key fob.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are found in the majority of newer automobiles. These keys have embedded chips in the head that sends a message to the vehicle once it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and for starting the engine. This key is more secure than the traditional flat metal keys because the transponder chip prevents the car from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was designed to stop car theft since it is nearly impossible to duplicate keys without the appropriate equipment.

Additionally, many vehicles also come with immobilizer systems that stop them from starting when a non-transponder key is used. Car thieves have developed methods to steal vehicles with transponder key systems.

A locksmith can help replace your transponder key if it's damaged or stolen. They will need to have the information about your specific vehicle, including the VIN number, model and year. Then, they'll cut a new one or program the existing one to your car's security system. This procedure is more expensive than simply cutting a key from a dealership and program a new key.

Some auto stores such as AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and copy transponder keys, however, they may not be capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. If you want to ensure that a professional can handle the job, contact an experienced and trusted locksmith business.

Before the invention of technology like this, it was relatively easy to make a duplicate car key and then hot wire a car. This was a method used to steal cars and it allowed criminals to drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced this crime, but not entirely eliminated it completely.

You can contact a professional to do this for you in the event that you require an alternative transponder key or if you've lost yours. It's more expensive than a standard key, however it's a safer and more secure option to ensure that anyone else will not be able to start your car.

Keyless Entry System

As increasing numbers of people seek convenience, safety and security keys for their cars have become a common feature. These tiny devices can unlock doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, and even start your engine without having to carry a physical key in your hands. However, they also be subject to quite a beating from being used in a variety of ways, and are more likely to be lost or stolen than traditional keys. This means they're costly to replace, and you might require fob programming to connect your new key with your vehicle.

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

Some advanced car key systems let you use your phone as keys. Using the app on your phone, you can remote lock or unlock your car and you can switch on and off, turn off your parking brake, and do other things depending on your proximity to the car. These are great for people who reside in urban areas or even if you're a parent that's worried about your children leaving the car without supervision.

Certain of these systems are expensive however, they're more secure than a standard car key because they can monitor your location and stop you from locking the car or turning off the engine if you're too far away. Some of these systems will help you locate your vehicle in a garage, while others will notify you when you shut or open the doors.

These types of systems can also be beneficial to businesses, like property managers who manage office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to control access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also make sure that only those who have permissions are allowed in and out.

Dealership

Some people believe that they should visit a dealer when their keys are missing. The dealer will request proof of ownership and repairer request the key from the manufacturer. This can take several days. But a dealer will generally complete the task for you faster than locksmiths, and they might have lower prices, too.

The key fob might need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done either at the dealer or by consulting your owner's guide. It involves opening and closing doors, and switching off or on lights and other electronic devices. It may also require pressing a series of buttons that function as a code. This can often be done by the drivers, but it's best to let an expert take care of it.

The year, make and model of the vehicle will have an impact on the cost as well. The cost of the service can also be affected by the year, make and model of the vehicle.

A dealer that sells a specific model of car is more likely know how to replace the keys for the vehicle. Some of the bigger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have several models and are familiar with keys.

Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the more established brands that have closed or that are old enough that they no longer make keys are listed. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are some of the companies that are older and no longer produce keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these kinds of keys require reprogramming and can be more complicated and costly than replacing the key itself.

It is best to get your spare key copied by a specialist rather than buying a new one 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 rest assured that the copied key will work.