Car Keys Replacement Cost

Not long ago, misplacing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could take your spare key to a key cutting shop for a new one that cost $10 or less.

Nowadays, however, the process is more complex and costly. Learn about the various types and costs for car keys.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob can be described as an remote as well as a key in one. It's tiny, plastic device with a button you can push to unlock doors or hatchbacks, open the trunk, lower windows and maybe even start your car. The key fob also comes with an electronic chip inside that communicates with the car's onboard system to control functions such as the starter.

Key fobs for basic use are typically constructed from plastic that is standard, and use a regular lock and key mobile replacement car keys for car (Read the Full Guide) mechanism. They are the same as those found on old Pontiacs or Saturns. A basic key fob may cost anything from $50 to $100, but the real cost comes when you have to replace a lost or damaged one.

If your car was made within the last five years, the chances are you'll need to visit the dealer for a replacement fob, as many newer vehicles require special equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith or a key shop can usually do this for less however.

The type of fob you're using can also impact the cost. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, while modern models have transponder keys. Both of these types come with a variety of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically to rolling codes that change regularly to stop thieves from stealing and using the data from your key fob.

It's possible to buy an aftermarket key fob for less than the price you'd pay at the dealer however, they may not work with your car. Some manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru, include security chips in their key fobs that block them from working with third-party devices. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob when it's brought in, however it's very likely 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 before going to the dealership or paying an expert locksmith to do it. You could also check the warranty of your vehicle, the roadside assistance and auto-insurance coverage to determine if they will cover the cost of a replacement key fob.

Transponder Key

Most newer cars use keys that are known as transponder keys. They have an embedded chip in the head which transmits an electronic message to the vehicle once it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and launching the engine. This key is more secure than a traditional flat metal key because the transponder chip prevents cars from starting without the proper signal. This technology was designed to stop car theft since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these kinds of keys without the appropriate equipment.

Many vehicles are also equipped with immobilizers that prevent them from being started when they are operated by a key that is not transponder. Car thieves have devised ways to steal cars equipped with transponder key systems.

A locksmith can help you 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 as well as the model and year. They will then either program the key you have to the car's computer system or cut new keys. This is a more costly procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys.

Some auto stores such as AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and copy transponder keys but they aren't capable of reprogramming chips in the key. It is best to call a reputable and experienced locksmith firm to be sure that a professional is capable of handling the job.

It was relatively easy to make duplicate keys for a car and then wire a vehicle prior to the advent of this latest technology. 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 get an expert to handle this for you if you require a replacement transponder key, or if you've lost yours. The cost will be more than a standard key, however it's a safer and better way to ensure that your vehicle cannot be started by someone else.

Keyless Entry System

Car key fobs are becoming a standard feature in vehicles as more people want convenience, safety and security. These tiny devices can unlock doors, set off the alarm that sounds a panic and open the trunk and even start your engine without having the physical key in your hand. They can also take a lot of abuse from being tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen than the metal keys. They're also expensive to replace, and you may need fob programming to pair your new one with your vehicle.

A basic key fob will cost ten or so dollars to cut at an hardware store, but the most recent smart keys aren't cheap when you want to purchase them and have them programmed. It is possible to spend between $200 and $500 for a replacement key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed for your vehicle.

Some advanced car key systems allow you to use your phone as keys. You can lock or unlock your car remotely using the app on your phone. You can also turn off and on your lights, activate your parking break, as well as perform other things based on how close you are to your car. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas or if you're a parent that's worried about your children leaving the mobile car key replacement unattended.

Some of these systems are expensive, but they're also more secure than a standard car key since they monitor your location and stop you from accidentally locking the car or turning on the engine in case you're not close enough. They can also assist you to find your car in garages that have parking spaces and even alert you if the doors are opened or closed.

These kinds of systems can also be useful for companies, such as property managers that oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to control 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 believe that they should go to the dealer if keys are missing. The dealer will ask for proof of ownership and request the key from the manufacturer. This can take several days. A dealer is usually able to complete the job faster than a locksmith and might even charge less.

It is likely that the key fob will need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by looking up the owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors and turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off. It could even require pressing a set of buttons which acts as a code. This can often be done by the drivers, but it's always better to let a technician take care of it.

The cost will also be dependent on the year, Key Replacement For Car make and model of vehicle. Modern cars come with high-tech transponder chips that will need to be paired with the vehicle by a locksmith or a dealer, and the process can be more expensive.

A dealer who sells a particular model of car is more likely to know how to change keys for that model. Some of the larger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan, have a large variety of models and are more acquainted with the keys that are used for the models they sell.

Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the more established brands that have been shut down or are so old that they no longer make keys are listed. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are some of the older companies that do not produce keys anymore. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Key replacement For car Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these keys require reprogramming which is more difficult and expensive than replacing the key itself.

It is recommended that you have your spare key cloned by a professional instead of purchasing another one from a dealer. You can avoid paying the higher prices for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys you can be assured that the duplicate will work.