Car Keys Replacement Cost

In the past, losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could take your spare to key cutters and purchase an additional one for $10 or less.

Today, however the process can be more complicated and expensive. Find out more about the different types of keys for cars and how they'll cost you to replace them.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob can be described as an remote control as well as an actual key in one. It's a small, plastic device that contains one or more buttons that you push to unlock the doors and open the trunk or hatchback, lower the windows and maybe even start the car. The key fob has an embedded electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard system to control functions such as the starter.

A basic key fob is usually constructed of plastic that utilizes a standard lock-and-key mechanism, such as the type you'd find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost anything from $50 to $100, but the true cost comes when you have to replace a damaged or lost one.

If your car was manufactured within the last five years, chances are that you'll need to go to the dealership for a replacement fob, as many newer cars require specialized equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith shop or key shop is usually in a position to provide this service at a lower cost.

The kind of fob you own will also affect the price. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, while modern models usually come with transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of keys come with a variety of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle instantly to changing codes on a regular basis to prevent thieves from taking and stealing the key fob information of your car.

You may be able to purchase an aftermarket key fob at a lower cost than what you'd pay at the dealer however they might not be compatible with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru, have security chips in their key fobs that prevent them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob, if it's brought in, but it's very likely that it won't work.

Check your owner's manual or search the manufacturer's website for more information about programming your particular model's key fob. It's a good idea to try this yourself before going to the dealership or hiring a locksmith to do it. You can also check your car's warranty, roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance policy to see if they cover the costs of a replacement key fob.

Transponder Key

The majority of newer cars have keys of a different type, known as transponder keys. The keys have a chip embedded in the key's head that transmits a signal to the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and launching the engine. This type of key is more secure than standard flat metal keys due to transponder chips prevent the car from starting if it fails to receive the right signal from the key. This technology was designed to reduce car theft because it is nearly impossible to duplicate keys without the appropriate equipment.

Many cars are also equipped with immobilizers which prevent the vehicle from starting if they are used with keys that do not have a transponder. However, thieves have also developed ways to steal and break into cars with transponder keys.

A locksmith can help to replace your transponder keys if it is damaged or lost. They'll require the information about your specific vehicle, such as the VIN number along with the year, model and year. They will then either cut a new key or program the one they have to your car's security system. This is a little more expensive than simply having a car dealership cut and program a new key.

Some stores for automotive like AutoZone or Walmart can cut and duplicate transponder keys however, they may not be capable of reprogramming chips in the key. It is best to call an experienced and reliable locksmith service to be sure that a professional will be capable of handling the job.

Before the advent of technology like this it was quite simple to create duplicate car keys and then hot wire a car. This method of stealing vehicles was frequent and allowed criminals to enter and drive off with stolen vehicles. The advent of transponder keys has drastically reduced this crime, but it is not completely eliminated.

You can get an expert to handle this for you if you need an extra transponder key or if you've lost one. It will cost more than a standard one, but it's a safer and better option to ensure that anyone else will not be able to start your car.

Keyless Entry System

Car key fobs are becoming an everyday feature in cars as people are seeking convenience, safety and security. These tiny transmitters can open doors, set off the alarm that sounds a panic, open the trunk, and even start your car without having to carry a physical key in your hands. They can be tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. It's expensive to replace keys, and you might have to program your new fob to pair it with your vehicle.

The cost of cutting a standard key fob in a hardware shop is around ten dollars. However, the most recent smart keys can be expensive when you need to purchase them and then program them. You should expect to pay between $200 and $500 on the replacement key for car cost key fob. This includes the cost to have it cut and programmed to fit in your car.

Certain advanced car key systems allow you to use your phone as keys. By using the app on your smartphone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car and you can also switch your lights on and off, turn off your parking brake, and perform other things based on the proximity of your car. These are great for people who reside in urban areas or if you're a parent that's concerned about your children leaving the car unsupervised.

Some of these systems can be expensive however, they're more secure than a regular car key as they monitor your location and stop you from accidentally locking the car or turning on the engine if you're too far away. They also can help you locate your car in a parking garage, and some can warn you when the doors are shut or opened.

These systems can also be useful for businesses like property managers who manage office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems can allow them to monitor access rights for guests cleaners, guests, and maintenance personnel, while ensuring that only those who have the proper permissions can go in and out of the space.

Dealership

Some people feel they must go to the dealer if keys are missing. The dealer will ask for proof of ownership and order the key from the manufacturer. This can take several days. But a dealer will generally complete the task for you quicker than locksmiths, and they may have cheaper prices, too.

The key fob might require programming for your car. This can be done at the dealership, or by consulting your owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, and switching off or on lights and other electronic devices. It may also require pressing a series of buttons that function as a code. This can often be done by the drivers, however it is always best to let a technician take care of it.

The year, make and model of the vehicle will affect the price, too. Newer cars have high-tech transponder chips that will need to be paired with the vehicle by a locksmith or dealer and the process may be more costly.

A dealer that sells a certain model of car is more likely to know how to replace keys for that model. Some of the larger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a huge 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 are old enough that they no longer produce keys are listed. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are a few of the older companies that no longer produce keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these types of keys have to be reprogrammed, Car Keys Replacement Cost which can be more difficult and expensive than replacing the key itself.

In general, if you have a spare key it is best to get it copied by a specialist instead of getting an exchange from the dealer. This way, you avoid paying the more expensive after-hours or weekend rates. Then, if you lose your keys, you can rest easy knowing that the cloned key will function.