Car Keys Replacement Cost

It wasn't long ago that misplacing car keys was not a problem. You could bring your spare key to a key cutter and get a new one that cost less than $10.

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

Basic Key Fob

A key fob is a remote control and a key in one. It's a small, plastic device that has a button or buttons that you press to unlock the doors and open the trunk or hatchback, roll down the windows and maybe even start the Car Key Replacement Online. The key fob has an electronic chip built in that communicates with your car's onboard systems to regulate functions like the starter.

A basic key fob is typically made of plastic and employs a lock-and key mechanism, like the one you'd find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost between $50-$100, but you'll pay more if you need to replace one that has been damaged or lost.

You'll probably need to visit a dealer if your car is newer than five years. Most newer vehicles require special equipment to code and programme new keys. Locksmiths or key shops will usually be able to perform this task for less, though.

The cost of your fob can also depend on the type you have. Older vehicles use mechanical key fobs, while modern models usually come with transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of keys can have a wide range of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the car in a controlled manner to rolling codes that are updated regularly to deter thieves from intercepting and using the key fob information of your car.

It's possible to buy an aftermarket key fob online for less than the price you'd pay at a dealership, but these may not be compatible with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from interacting with third-party devices. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob when it's brought in, but it's very likely that it won't work.

Go through your owner's manual or go to the manufacturer's site for information about programming your particular model's key fob. You should try to do this yourself first before paying an expert locksmith or visiting the dealer. You can also check your car's warranty and auto insurance policy to see if they cover the cost of a brand new key fob.

Transponder Key

The majority of newer cars have a type of key called transponder keys. These keys have an embedded chip in the head that transmits an electronic message to the vehicle once it is put into the ignition cylinder. The signal is used to unlock the car and start the engine. This key is more secure than the traditional flat metal keys because the transponder chip stops the car from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was designed to prevent theft of cars since it is almost impossible to duplicate these kinds of keys without the right equipment.

Additionally, many cars also come with immobilizer systems that stop them from starting if keys that are not transponder compatible are used. Car thieves have developed methods of stealing cars with transponder key systems.

A locksmith is usually able to help you replace the damaged or lost transponder key. They will need to have the details of your particular vehicle, including the VIN number as well as the model and year. Then they will either cut a new key or program the one they have to the car's system. This procedure is more expensive than having a car dealership cut and program a replacement key.

Some stores for automotive like AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and copy transponder keys but they aren't capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. You should contact an experienced and reliable locksmith service to ensure that a professional will be competent to complete the task.

Before the invention of technology like this, it was relatively easy to make duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a car. This method of stealing cars was widespread and allowed criminals to get into and drive away with stolen vehicles. The advent of transponder keys has greatly reduced the likelihood of this happening but it's not completely eliminated.

You can call 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, but it is a much safer and better way to ensure that your vehicle cannot be started by someone else.

Keyless Entry System

As more and more people demand convenience, security and safety key fobs for car key replacement online cars have become a standard feature. These tiny devices can unlock doors, activate the alarm that sounds a panic, open the trunk, and car key replacement online even start your engine without needing to have a physical key in your hand. They can also endure a lot of abuse from being tossed around, and they are more likely to be lost or stolen than the metal keys. They're also expensive to replace, and you might require fob programming in order to pair your new key with your vehicle.

A standard key fob can cost ten or so dollars to cut at an hardware store, but the latest smart keys can be expensive if you want to purchase them and have them programmed. Depending on your vehicle make and model you could expect to pay anywhere from $200 and $500 for a replacement fob in addition to the cost of cutting it and programming it to your vehicle.

There are additionally more advanced car key systems that let you use your smartphone as an actual key. Using the app on your phone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car, and you can turn your lights on and off, as well as activate your parking brake, and perform other things depending on the proximity of your car key replacement. This is ideal for people who live in urban areas or if you have kids and worry about them leaving the car unattended.

Certain of these systems may be expensive, but are more secure than a regular car key. They track your location to prevent you from locking or opening the car when you are far from. They also can help you locate your car in parking garages and can even warn you when the doors are open or closed.

These systems can also be useful for companies such as property managers who manage vacation rentals or offices. 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 they need to go to the dealer when keys are missing. The dealer will request proof of ownership, and could purchase keys from the manufacturer. This can take several days. A dealer is usually able to complete the job faster than a locksmith and could even cost less.

The key fob might require to be programmed for your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by consulting your owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, as well as turning on and off lights and other electronic devices. It could even require pressing a series of buttons that function as an electronic code. It is usually performed by the driver, but it is better to have a technician do it.

The year the model, make and year of the car will affect the cost as well. Newer cars have sophisticated transponder chips which will require pairing with the car by a locksmith or a dealer and the process could be more expensive.

A dealer who sells a particular brand of car will be more likely to have the knowledge to replace keys for that model. Some of the larger 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 models they sell.

Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have been shut down or are old enough that they no longer manufacture keys are included. 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 and can be more difficult and more expensive than replacing the key itself.

In general, if you have a spare key it is usually best to get it copied by a specialist rather than getting a replacement from the dealer. So, you don't have to worry about paying the more expensive after-hours or weekend rates. If you do lose your keys you can rest assured that the cloned key will work.