Car Keys Replacement Cost

It wasn't long ago that misplacing keys to your car was not a big issue. You could take your spare to a key cutter and get a new one for $10 or less.

However the process has become more complex and expensive. Find out about the various kinds and costs for car keys.

Basic Key Fob

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

Key fobs for basic use are typically made from standard plastic, and utilize a standard lock and key mechanism. They are the same as those found on old Pontiacs or Saturns. A basic key fob may cost for replacement car key anywhere from $50 to $100, but the actual cost comes when you have to replace a damaged or lost one.

If your car was manufactured in the last five years, the chances are you'll need to visit the dealer to get a replacement fob as many newer vehicles require specialized equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or key shop will typically be in a position to provide this service at a lower cost.

The type of fob you're using can affect the price. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, while latest models use transponder keys. Key fobs of both kinds can be equipped with a range of features. They can include keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically, or rolling codes that are updated frequently to stop thieves from stealing the information on the key fob.

Key fobs purchased online may be less expensive than ones you can purchase from a dealer, but they may not work on your car. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru, have security chips inside their key fobs, which prevent them from working with third-party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in, but there's a good chance that it won't function.

Go through your owner's manual or go to the manufacturer's site for more information on programming your specific model's key fob. It's worth trying to do this yourself before going to the dealer or hiring an expert locksmith. You can also check your car's warranty and auto insurance policy to determine whether they cover the cost of a brand new key fob.

Transponder Key

Most modern cars utilize keys of a different type, known as transponder keys. The keys have an embedded chip in the key's head that sends a signal to the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and begin the engine. This key type is more secure than standard flat metal keys since transponder chips prevent the car from starting if it fails to receive an appropriate signal from the key. This technology was created to prevent theft of cars because it is virtually impossible to duplicate keys without the appropriate equipment.

In addition, many cars also have immobilizer systems that prevent them from starting when a non-transponder key is used. However, car thieves have also developed ways to gain access and steal vehicles that have transponder keys.

A locksmith is usually able to assist you in replacing a lost or damaged transponder key. They will need to have the information about your specific vehicle, including the VIN number, model and year. Then, they'll either cut a new key or program the existing one to your car's security system. This is a little more expensive than cutting a key from a dealership and Lost Key Replacement Car program a replacement key.

Some auto stores, such as AutoZone and Walmart, are also capable of cutting and re-copying a transponder key, but they may not be capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. It is best to call an experienced and reliable locksmith company if you want to ensure that a professional will be able to handle the task.

It was relatively easy to create duplicate keys for a car and hot-wire a vehicle before the advent of this latest technology. This method was used to steal cars and allowed criminals drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have drastically reduced the risk of this crime, but it isn't entirely eliminated it.

You can contact an expert to handle this for you if you require a replacement transponder key, or if you've lost yours. The cost will be higher than a traditional key however it's a safer and more secure method to ensure that your vehicle is not able to be started by anyone else.

Keyless Entry System

Car key fobs are becoming an everyday feature in cars, as more and more people want convenience, safety and security. These tiny transmitters can open doors, set off the panic alarm or open the trunk and even start your engine without having the physical key in your hand. They can also take some abuse from being used in a variety of ways, and they are more likely to be Lost Key Replacement Car or stolen than traditional keys. It's costly to replace keys, and you might have to program your new key to pair it with your vehicle.

A standard key fob can cost ten or so dollars to get cut at the hardware store, however the most recent smart keys can be expensive if you want to purchase them and then have them programmed. You should expect to pay between $200 and $500 on the replacement key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed for your car.

There are other more advanced car keys systems that allow you to use your smartphone as a key. By using the app on your phone, you can remote lock or unlock your car and you can switch on and off, activate your parking brake, and perform other things based on your proximity to the car. These apps are ideal for those who live in urban areas, or if you're a parent that's worried about your children leaving the car unattended.

Some of these systems could be expensive, but are more secure than a regular car key. They track your location to prevent you from accidentally locking or starting the car when you are too far away. They can also help you find your car in parking garages and can even warn you when the doors are opened or closed.

These kinds of systems can also be beneficial for companies, such as property managers who manage office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to monitor access rights for guests cleaners, guests, and maintenance staff, as well as 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 their keys are missing. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership and order the key from the manufacturer. This could take several days. A dealer is usually able to complete the job more quickly than a locksmith and could even cost less.

It is likely that the key fob will still need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done either at the dealer or by looking up the owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors, and turning off the lights and other electronic devices on and off. It can even require pressing a set of buttons that acts like an electronic code. Most of the time, this is performed by the driver however, it is best to have a technician handle it.

The cost for replacement car key can also be dependent on the year, model and year of vehicle. Modern cars feature sophisticated transponder chips which will require pairing with the car by a locksmith or a dealer and the process may be more expensive.

A dealer who sells a specific model of car is more likely to know how to replace keys for the model. Some of the larger manufacturers, Lost Key Replacement Car like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler, have many models and are familiar with the keys.

Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the more established brands that have been shut down or are so old that they no longer make keys are included. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are some of the companies that are older and do not produce keys anymore. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. The keys are typically reprogrammed. This can be more expensive and difficult than replacing the key.

It is recommended to have your spare key cloned by a professional rather than buying an entirely new one from a dealer. That way you can avoid paying the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. If you lose your keys, you can rest easy knowing that the copied key will work.