Car Keys Replacement Cost

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

Today, however the process can be more complicated and costly. Learn about the various types and costs of car key replacement keys.

Basic Key Fob

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

A basic key fob is typically constructed of plastic that employs a lock-and key mechanism, Car Keys Replacement Cost like the kind you might find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob could cost anything from $50 to $100, but the true cost is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one.

You'll likely need to visit a dealer if your vehicle is more than five years old. A lot of newer vehicles require special equipment to code and programme new keys. A locksmith or key shop typically can perform this task for less, though.

The cost of your fob could be affected by the type you own. Older cars have mechanical key fobs, while the most recent models typically have transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of key fobs can come with a range of features. They may include keyless entry, which locks and unlocks your car automatically, or rolling codes that are updated regularly to prevent thieves from stealing the information on your key fob.

Online key fobs may be less expensive than the ones you can purchase from a dealer, but they might not be compatible with your car. Some manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru include security chips in their key fobs, which prevent them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealers will program an aftermarket key fob if it's brought in, but it's very likely that it won't function.

You can find out more about programming your key fob by visiting the website of the manufacturer or the owner's guide. It's worth trying to do this yourself prior to going to the dealership or paying a locksmith to do it. You can also look into your car's warranty and auto insurance policy to determine whether they cover the cost of a brand new key fob.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are used in most newer cars. These keys contain an embedded chip in the head of the key 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 traditional flat metal keys since a transponder chip prevents the car from starting if it fails to receive the right signal from the key. This technology was created to prevent theft of cars since it is nearly impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the proper equipment.

Many cars are also fitted with immobilizers which prevent the vehicle from starting when they are operated with keys that are not transponder. Car thieves have developed methods to steal vehicles with transponder key systems.

A locksmith can help you repair your transponder key in the event that it's damaged or stolen. They will need to have the details of your particular vehicle, such as the VIN number as well as the model and year. They can then either program your current key to the car's computer system or cut an entirely new one. This is a more expensive process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.

Some auto stores, such as AutoZone and Walmart, are also able to cut and copy the transponder keys, however they might not be in a position to reprogram the chip inside the key. If you want to be sure that a professional is able to complete the task, you should call a reputable and experienced locksmith service.

It was relatively easy to make a duplicate key for a car and hot-wire a car prior to the advent of this new technology. This method of stealing cars was widespread and allowed criminals to gain entry and drive away with stolen vehicles. The advent of transponder keys has greatly reduced this activity however, it's not completely eliminated.

You can get 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 but it's a much safer and more reliable 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 people seek convenience, safety, and security. They are able to open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, or start the engine without having a physical key. They are easily tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. 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 key fob in a hardware shop is around 10 dollars. However, the newest smart keys can be expensive if you must purchase them and then program them. Depending on your vehicle make and model you can expect to pay between $200-$500 for a replacement fob plus the cost of having it cut and programmed to your car.

Some sophisticated car key systems let you use your smartphone as an actual key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle remotely using the app on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, turn on your parking break, and perform other tasks depending on how close you are to the car. This is ideal for people who reside in urban areas, or have children and are worried about them leaving the car unattended.

Certain of these systems are expensive however, they're more secure than a regular car key as they locate you and prevent you from accidentally locking the car or turning on the engine in case you're not close enough. They can also assist you to locate your car inside a parking garage and even alert you if the doors are opened or closed.

These kinds of systems could also be useful for businesses, such as property managers who manage vacation rentals or office spaces. These systems let them check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. They can also make sure that only those with permissions are allowed in and out.

Dealership

Some people feel they must visit a dealer when keys are missing. The dealer will ask for proof of ownership, and could request keys from the manufacturer. This can take several days. However, a dealer can generally complete the task for you much faster than locksmiths, and may have cheaper prices, too.

The key fob might require to be programmed for your car. This can be done at the dealership, or by reading the owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors, as well as turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off. It may also require pressing a series of buttons that function as a code. This is usually handled by the drivers, but it's always better to let an expert take care of it.

The cost can also be dependent on the year, Car Keys Replacement Cost make and model of vehicle. Modern cars come with sophisticated transponder chips which will need to be paired with the car by a locksmith dealer and the process could be more costly.

A dealer who sells a specific model will be more likely to know how to replace keys for that model. Some of the larger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have several models and are familiar with the keys.

Other brands are more difficult to work with. This includes some of the more established firms that have been shut down or are old enough to have keys that are no longer being produced. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn, and Eagle. The keys are typically modified. This is more expensive and complicated than replacing the key.

If you have a spare key it is recommended to have it cloned at an expert instead of obtaining a replacement from the dealer. That way you can avoid having to pay the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. If you lose your keys you can be assured that the duplicate will work.