Car Keys Replacement Cost

It wasn't too long ago that losing keys to cars was not a problem. You could bring your spare to key cutters and purchase a new one for $10 or less.

Nowadays, however, the process can be more complicated and costly. Read on to learn about the various types of keys for cars and how they'll cost you to replace.

Basic Key Fob

Key fobs are an electronic remote and a key in one. It's a small, plastic piece with a button can be pushed to open doors or hatchbacks, open the trunk, lower windows and, possibly, even start your cheapest car key replacement. The key fob has an electronic chip inside that communicates with the car's onboard system to control functions like the starter.

A basic key fob is generally made of plastic and employs a lock-and key mechanism, like the type you'd find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob will cost anywhere between $50 to $100, however you'll pay more if require a replacement for one that's damaged or lost.

You'll probably need to visit the dealer if your car is newer than five years. Most newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith shop or key shop is usually capable of doing this at a lower cost.

The cost of the fob you purchase can also depend on the type of fob you own. Older vehicles use mechanical keys, whereas modern models usually come with transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of key fobs can be equipped with a variety of functions. They could include keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically or rolling codes that are changed frequently to keep thieves from intercepting the data on the key fob.

Key fobs purchased online may be cheaper than those you can buy at the dealer, but they may not be compatible with your car. Some manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips that prevent their key fobs from interfacing with third party devices. Some dealerships will program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in but there's a good chance that it won't work.

Go through your owner's manual or go to the manufacturer's site to find information on programming your specific model's key fob. It's worth trying this yourself before going to the dealer or hiring an expert locksmith to do it. You may also want to check the warranty on your vehicle and the auto-insurance policy to determine if they cover the cost of replacing a key fob.

Transponder Key

Most modern cars utilize keys that are known as transponder keys. The keys have an embedded chip in the key's head which transmits a signal the vehicle when it is inserted into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and begin the engine. This key type is more secure than traditional flat metal keys because a transponder chip prevents the car from starting if it does not receive the right signal from the key. This technology was developed to stop car theft since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these kinds of keys without the appropriate equipment.

In addition, many cars also come with immobilizer systems that stop them from starting when the key is not transponder-compatible. However, car thieves have also devised ways to steal and break into cars with transponder keys.

A locksmith can help you to replace your transponder keys if it is damaged or lost. They'll need the details about your specific vehicle, including the VIN number as well as the model and year. Then they will cut a new one or program the one they have to your car's system. This is a costlier process than having a dealership cut and program replacement car key costs keys.

Some automotive stores, like AutoZone and Walmart are also capable of cutting and copying a transponder key, but they may not be in a position to reprogram the chip in the key. It is best to call an experienced and reputable locksmith company if you want to be sure that a professional is able to handle the task.

It was relatively easy to make a duplicate key for a car, and then hot-wire a car prior to the advent of this latest technology. This method of stealing vehicles was widespread and allowed criminals to enter and drive off with stolen vehicles. The introduction of transponder keys has greatly reduced the likelihood of this happening, but it is not completely eliminated.

You can contact an expert to handle this for you if you require an extra transponder key or if you've lost one. It will cost more than a standard key but it's a safer and more secure option to ensure that anyone else cannot start your car.

Keyless Entry System

Car key fobs are now a standard feature of vehicles, as more and more people want convenience, safety, and security. These tiny devices can unlock doors, set off the panic alarm and open the trunk and even start your engine without having to carry a physical key in your hands. They can be thrown around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. They're also expensive to replace, and you might need fob programming to pair your new one with your vehicle.

The cost of cutting a standard key fob in a hardware store is about ten dollars. However, the newest smart keys can be expensive when you need to purchase them and then program them. Based on your car's make and model you can expect to shell out between $200 and $500 for a replacement fob plus the cost of cutting it and programming it to your vehicle.

There are additionally more advanced car key systems that allow you to use your smartphone as an actual key. With the application on your phone, car keys replacement 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 your proximity to the car. They are perfect for people who reside in urban areas, or even parents who are concerned about your children leaving the car unsupervised.

Some of these systems are expensive however, they're more secure than a standard car key since they locate you and prevent you from accidentally locking the car or turning off the engine if you're too far away. They also can help you locate your car inside parking garages and can even warn you when the doors are open or closed.

These kinds of systems can also be beneficial to businesses, such as property managers who oversee vacation rentals or office spaces. These systems permit them to monitor 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 feel they must go to the dealer when keys are missing. They'll have to show proof of ownership, and occasionally the key must be ordered from the manufacturer which could take several days. But a dealer can also typically complete the task for you quicker than locksmiths, and they may have cheaper prices, too.

The key fob could require programming for your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by consulting your owner's guide. It involves closing and opening doors and turning lights and other electronics on and off. It may also require pressing a set of buttons which act as an electronic code. This is often handled by the driver, but it's best to let an expert take care of it.

The cost will also be dependent on the year, model and year of vehicle. The cost of the service can also be affected by the year, make and model of the vehicle.

A dealer that sells a certain model will be more likely to be able to replace keys for that model. Some of the bigger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a wide variety of models and are more acquainted with the keys for those models.

Other brands are more 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 in production. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are among the companies that are older and do not produce keys anymore. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these keys need to be reprogrammed which is more difficult and expensive than replacing the key itself.

It is recommended that you get your spare key copied by a specialist rather than getting a new one from a dealer. You will not have to pay the higher rates for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys, you are assured that the cloned key will work.