Car Keys Replacement Cost

A few years ago, losing your car keys was not a big deal. You could take your spare keys to a key cutter and get a new one for $10 or less.

Today, however, the process can be more complicated and costly. Find out more about the different types of car keys and how they'll cost you to replace.

Basic Key Fob

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

Basic key fobs are made of standard plastic and utilize a standard lock and key mechanism. They are the same as those found on old Pontiacs or Saturns. A basic key fob could cost between $50 and $100, but the real cost comes when you have to replace a damaged or lost one.

If your car was built in the last five years, chances are you'll need to visit the dealership for a replacement fob as many newer cars require specialized equipment to program and code new keys. Locksmiths or key shops will usually be able to do this for less, though.

The type of fob you're using can also impact the cost. Older vehicles use mechanical key fobs, while modern models usually come with transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of keys come with a variety of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the vehicle instantly to changing codes on a regular basis to deter thieves from intercepting and stealing the data from your key fob.

Key fobs that are available online could be less expensive than ones you can purchase from a dealer, but they may not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from working with third party devices. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob if it's brought in, but it's very likely that it won't function.

You can find information about programming your key fob by visiting the manufacturer's site or the owner's guide. It's a good idea to try this yourself before going to the dealer or hiring an expert locksmith. You can also check your car's warranty, roadside assistance and auto-insurance coverage to determine if they will cover the cost of a replacement fob for your key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are used in the majority of newer automobiles. They have an embedded chip inside 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 key type is more secure than standard flat metal keys because a transponder chip prevents 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 nearly impossible to duplicate these kinds of keys without the appropriate equipment.

Many cars are also fitted with immobilizers that stop the vehicle from starting when they are operated with keys that are not transponder. However, thieves have also developed methods to gain access and steal cars with transponder keys.

A locksmith will usually be able to help you replace the damaged or lost transponder key. They will require details of your vehicle including the VIN number and model. They'll either program your current key to the car's system or cut an entirely new one. This is a little more expensive than simply getting a car dealership to cut and program a replacement car keys cost key.

Some stores for automotive, such as AutoZone and Walmart can also be capable of cutting and re-copying the transponder keys, however they may not be able to reprogram the chip in the key. It is recommended to contact an experienced and reliable locksmith firm to be sure that a professional is competent to complete the task.

Before the advent of technology like this it was quite easy to make duplicate car keys and then hot wire a vehicle. This method of stealing vehicles was frequent and allowed criminals to get into and drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have greatly reduced the risk of this crime, but they haven't completely eliminated it.

You can contact an expert to do this for you if you need a replacement transponder key, or if you've lost one. It will cost more than a standard one, but it's a safer and more secure option to ensure that anyone else is unable to start your car.

Keyless Entry System

As increasing numbers of people want security, convenience, and safety keys for their cars have become a common feature. These tiny transmitters can open doors, set off the panic alarm or open the trunk and even start your engine without having the physical key in your hand. They can be thrown around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. That means they're expensive to replace, and you may require fob programming in order to pair the new key with your vehicle.

The cost of cutting a standard fob for a key at an hardware store is around ten dollars. However, the newest smart keys can be costly when you need to purchase them, as well as program them. Based on your car's model and make you could expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $500 to replace a fob and the cost of cutting it and programming it to your car.

There are additionally more advanced car key systems that let you use your smartphone as a 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 perform other things based on the proximity of your car. This is ideal for people who reside in urban areas, or if you have kids and worry about children leaving the car unattended.

Some of these systems are expensive, but they're also more secure than a regular car key car replacement as they track your location and prevent you from accidentally locking the car or turning off the engine when you're far away. Some of these systems can help you locate your car in a garage, and others will notify you when you close or open the doors.

These systems are also useful for companies such as property managers who oversee vacation rentals or Car Keys Replacement Cost offices. These systems allow them to control access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also make sure that only those with permissions are permitted to enter and exit.

Dealership

Some people believe that they should visit a dealer when keys are missing. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership and may purchase keys from the manufacturer. This could take several days. But a dealer will generally complete the task for you much faster than locksmiths, and they may offer lower prices too.

It is likely that the key fob will require programming to your vehicle. This can be done through the dealer or consulting your owner's guide. It involves opening and closing doors, as well as turning lights and other electronic components on and off. It can even involve pressing a series of buttons that functions as the code. This can often be done by the drivers, but it's best to let an expert take care of it.

The year the car was manufactured, its model and make of the vehicle will have an impact on 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 particular model of car is more likely to know how to change keys for the model. Some of the larger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler, have many models and are familiar with keys.

Certain brands are difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have shut down or are so old that they no longer produce keys are included. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. Typically, these kinds of keys need to be reprogrammed, which can be more complicated and costly than replacing the key itself.

If you have a spare key it is recommended to get it copied by a specialist rather than getting an alternative from the dealer. You will not have to pay the more expensive rates for after-hours or weekend services. Then, if you do lose your keys you can rest easy knowing that the copied key will function.