Car Keys Replacement Cost

It wasn't too long ago that losing keys to cars was not a major issue. You could bring your spare key to a key cutter and get an alternative that cost less than $10.

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

Basic Key Fob

Key fobs are an remote as well as a key in one. It's tiny, plastic device with a button you can press to unlock doors or hatchbacks, open the trunk, lower windows, and possibly even start the car. The key fob has an electronic chip in it that communicates with your car's onboard systems to control functions such as the starter.

A basic key fob is generally made of plastic and utilizes a standard lock-and-key mechanism, Car keys replacement Cost like the one you'd find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob costs anywhere between $50 and $100, but you'll be charged more if you need to replace one that's damaged or lost.

You'll probably need to visit a dealer if your car is more than five years old. A lot of newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or a key car replacement shop will typically be capable of doing this for less.

The kind of fob you own can affect the price. Older cars have mechanical key fobs, while the most recent models typically have transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of key fobs are able to be fitted with a range of features. They can include keyless entry which locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically, or rolling codes that are updated frequently to keep thieves from stealing the data on the key fob.

You might be able to buy an aftermarket key fob online at a lower cost than what you'd pay at the dealer however they might not work with your vehicle. Some manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips inside their key fobs that block them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealerships can program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in but there's a good chance it won't continue to function.

You can find information about programming your key fob by searching the website of the manufacturer or the owner's manual. You should try to do this yourself before hiring a locksmith or going to the dealer. You could also check the warranty of your vehicle, the roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance coverage to see if these will cover the cost of a replacement key fob.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are used in most newer cars. These keys contain an embedded chip inside the key's head 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 does not receive an appropriate signal from the key. This technology was developed to prevent theft of cars since it is nearly impossible to duplicate these kinds of keys without the right equipment.

Many cars are also fitted with immobilizers which prevent the vehicle from starting when they are operated with a key that is not transponder. However, criminals have also come up with methods to break into and steal vehicles that have transponder keys.

A locksmith can assist you replace your transponder key if it is damaged or lost. They'll require the information about your specific vehicle, including the VIN number along with the year, model and year. They'll either program the key you have to the car's system, or cut a new one. This process is a bit more expensive than cutting a key from a dealership and program a replacement car key costs key.

Some automotive stores like AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and copy transponder keys, however, they may not be capable of reprogramming chips in the key. If you want to be sure that a professional will be able to handle the job, 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 latest technology. This method of stealing vehicles was frequent and allowed criminals to enter and drive off with stolen vehicles. The introduction of transponder keys has drastically reduced this crime but it's not completely eliminated.

If you need a new transponder key or you have lost yours, the best option is to contact an expert and have them do it for you. The cost will be more than a standard key, but it's a safer and better method to ensure that your car can't be started by anyone else.

Keyless Entry System

As increasing numbers of people want convenience, safety and security key fobs for cars are now a standard feature. These devices are able to open doors, Car Keys Replacement Cost activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, or start the engine without having an actual key. But they can also endure some abuse from being tossed around, and they are more likely to be lost or stolen than the metal keys. That means they're expensive to replace, and you could require fob programming in order to pair the new key with your vehicle.

A standard key fob can cost about ten dollars to get cut at an hardware store, but the most recent smart keys aren't cheap when you're looking to purchase them and then have them programmed. Based on your car's 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 vehicle.

Some sophisticated car key systems allow you to use your phone as keys. You can lock or unlock your car via the app on your phone. You can also turn on and off your lights, activate your parking break, and do other things based on the proximity to the vehicle. This is ideal for people who live in urban areas or have children and are worried about your children being in the car without supervision.

Certain of these systems may be expensive, but are more secure than the standard car key. They keep track of your location to prevent you from locking or opening the car if you are far from. Certain of these systems can help you locate your vehicle in a garage, while others can alert you if you shut or open the doors.

These systems are also useful for businesses such as property managers who manage offices or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those with permissions are allowed in and out.

Dealership

Some people believe that they should go to the dealer when their keys are missing. They will need to show proof of ownership, and sometimes the key must be ordered from the manufacturer which can take a few days. A dealer can usually do the job quicker than a locksmith and could even cost less.

The key fob could require to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by reading the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, and switching off or on lights and other electronic devices. It may even require pressing a set of buttons that act as codes. It is usually performed by the driver but it is always better to have a technician handle it.

The cost is also affected by the year, make and type of vehicle. Modern cars feature advanced transponder chips that require pairing with the car by a locksmith dealer, and the process can be more costly.

A dealer who sells particular brand of vehicle is more likely to be able to replace the keys for that vehicle. Some of the larger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have several models and are familiar with keys.

Certain brands are difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have shut down or are so old that they no longer produce keys are listed. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn, and Eagle. These keys are usually modified. This can be more expensive and time-consuming than replacing the key.

It is recommended that you get your spare key copied by a specialist rather than buying a new one from a dealer. You will not have to pay the higher prices for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys, you can be sure that the cloned key will function.