Car Keys Replacement Cost

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing car keys was not a big issue. You could take your spare keys to an a key cutter and buy an additional one for $10 or less.

However, the process has become more complicated and costly. Read on to learn about the various kinds of car keys and how they will cost you to replace them.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob is an electronic remote control and an actual key in one. It's a small, plastic piece equipped with a button which you can push to unlock doors or hatchbacks, open the trunk, open windows, roll them down and, possibly, even start the car. The key fob is equipped with an electronic chip embedded that communicates with your car's onboard systems to control functions such as the starter.

A basic key fob is typically made of plastic and uses a regular lock-and-key mechanism, like the type you'd find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob costs between $50 and $100, but you'll be charged more if you require a replacement for one that's been damaged or lost.

You'll likely have to visit the dealer if your vehicle is older than five years old. Many newer cars require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or key shop will usually be able to perform this task for less, however.

The cost of a replacement car key of the fob you purchase can depend on the type of fob you own. Older cars have mechanical key fobs, while modern models usually come with transponder keys or smart keys. Both of these types come with a variety of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the car instantly to rolling codes that are updated regularly to prevent thieves from taking and using the data from your key fob.

You may be able to buy an aftermarket key fob for less than the price you'd pay at a dealership however, they may not be compatible with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from interfacing with third party devices. Some dealerships can program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in but there's a good chance it won't continue to work.

Read the owner's manual for your model or search the manufacturer's website for information about programming your particular model's key fob. It's worth trying to do this yourself before heading to the dealer or hiring an expert locksmith. You could also check the warranty of your vehicle, the 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 modern cars. These keys contain an embedded chip in the head of the key which transmits a signal the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and for starting the engine. This key is more secure than a conventional flat metal key due to the transponder chip prevents cars 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 have immobilizer systems that prevent them from starting if a non-transponder key is used. Car thieves have developed methods of stealing cars with transponder key systems.

A locksmith can help you repair your transponder key in the event that it's damaged or lost. They'll require the information about your specific vehicle, such as the VIN number along with the year, model and year. Then they will either cut a new key or program the current one to your car's security system. This is a more expensive procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys.

Some auto stores such as AutoZone or Walmart can cut and duplicate transponder keys but may not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. You should contact a reputable and experienced locksmith firm to ensure that a professional is able to handle the task.

It was quite simple to make duplicate keys for a car, and then hot-wire a car prior to the advent of this new technology. This method of stealing cars was very common and allowed criminals to get into 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.

If you need a replacement transponder key or you have lost yours, the best solution is to call an expert and let them create it for you. The cost will be more than a traditional key but it's a safer and better method to ensure that your vehicle cannot be started by someone else.

Keyless Entry System

As more and more people demand convenience, safety and security key fobs for cars have become a standard feature. These tiny transmitters can open doors, activate the alarm that sounds a panic and open the trunk and even start your car without having the physical key in your hands. They can also be subject to a lot of abuse from being used in a variety of ways, and they're more likely to be lost or stolen than metal 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 basic key fob at a hardware store is about ten dollars. However, the newest smart keys can be costly if you have to buy them as well as programme them. It is possible to spend between $200 and $500 for the replacement key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed for your vehicle.

There are additionally more advanced car key systems that let you make use of your smartphone as an actual key. With the application on your smartphone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car and you can turn your lights on and off, activate your parking brake, and do other things depending on the proximity of your car. These are great for people who reside in urban areas or parents who are worried about your kids leaving the car without supervision.

Some of these systems are expensive, but they're also more secure than a regular car key since they monitor Car Keys Replacement Cost your location and stop you from accidentally locking the car or turning the engine on if you're too far away. Certain systems will help you locate your vehicle in a garage, while others can notify you when you close or open the doors.

These kinds of systems can also be beneficial for businesses, such as property managers that oversee office space or vacation rentals. These systems can allow them to monitor access rights of guests cleaners, guests, and maintenance personnel, while ensuring that only those with the appropriate permissions are allowed to get into and out of the space.

Dealership

Some people feel they must go to the dealer if keys are missing. They'll need to provide proof of ownership, and occasionally keys must be purchased from the manufacturer, which could take a few days. A dealer can usually do the job quicker than a locksmith, and might even cost less.

The key fob may still need to be programmed for your car. This can be done at the dealership, or by consulting your owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors and turning lights and other electronics on and off. It could even require pressing a series of buttons that function as codes. This is often handled by the driver, but it's always better to let an expert manage it.

The cost will also be affected by the year, model and year of vehicle. Modern cars feature advanced transponder chips that need to be paired with the car by a locksmith or dealer and the process could be more costly.

A dealer who sells a particular model of car is more likely to know how to replace keys for that model. Some of the biggest manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a wide variety of models and are more familiar with the keys that are used for the specific models.

Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have closed or that are old enough that they no longer produce keys are listed. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. These keys are usually reprogrammed. This is more expensive and time-consuming than replacing the key.

In general, if you have a spare key, it is recommended to duplicate it at a specialist rather than getting an exchange from the dealer. You can avoid paying the higher rates for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys you can be assured that the cloned one will work.