Car Keys Replacement Cost

It wasn't too long ago that misplacing car keys was not a problem. You could bring your spare to key cutters and purchase a new one for just $10 or less.

However the process has become more complex and expensive. Find out more about the various kinds of keys for cars and how they can cost you to replace them.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob is a remote control and key in one. It's a tiny plastic device that contains buttons or buttons that you can push to unlock the doors and open the trunk or hatchback, lower the windows, and possibly start the car. The key fob has an electronic chip embedded that communicates with the car's onboard systems to regulate functions like the starter.

Basic key fobs are made from standard plastic, and are fitted with a standard lock and key mechanism. They're the same as those that were used on the old Pontiacs and Saturns. A basic key fob could cost between $50 and $100, but the real price is when you need to replace a lost or damaged one.

If your car was made within the last five years, chances are that you'll need to go to the dealership to get a replacement fob since many modern cars require special equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith or a key shop will usually be capable of doing this for less.

The type of fob you're using can also impact the cost for replacement car key. Older vehicles have mechanical key fobs while the modern models have transponder keys. Key fobs of both types are able to be fitted with a variety of functions. They can include keyless entry which locks and unlocks your car automatically, or rolling codes that change frequently to stop thieves from stealing the data on the key fob.

Key fobs that are available online could be cheaper than those you can purchase from a dealer, but they may not work on your car. Certain manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from working with third party devices. Some dealerships will program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in however there's a high chance it won't continue to work.

You can get information on programming your key fob by visiting the manufacturer's site or the owner's guide. It's worth trying to do this yourself before heading to the dealer or hiring a locksmith to do it. You could also check your car's warranty, roadside assistance and auto-insurance policy to see if they will cover the cost of a replacement key fob.

Transponder Key

Most modern cars utilize keys of a different type, known as a transponder key. They have an embedded chip inside the head of the key that transmits a signal to the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and for starting the engine. This key is more secure than the traditional flat metal key because the transponder chip blocks a car from starting without the correct signal. This technology was designed to stop car theft since it is almost impossible to duplicate these kinds of keys without the right equipment.

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

A locksmith can help repair your transponder key in the event that it is damaged or lost. They will need the information about your vehicle, such as the VIN number and model. They'll either program your existing key to the car's computer system or cut a new one. This process is a bit more expensive than cutting a key from a dealership and program a new key.

Some stores for automotive, such as AutoZone and Walmart, are also capable of cutting and copying a transponder key, but they may not be in a position to reprogram the chip inside the key. You should contact an experienced and reputable locksmith company if you want to be sure that a professional is capable of handling the job.

It was quite simple to create duplicate keys for a car and hot-wire a car prior to the advent of this latest technology. This was a method used to steal cars and it allowed criminals to drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced this crime, but not entirely eliminated it.

If you need a new transponder keys or you've lost yours, the best option is to contact an expert and let them make it for you. It's more expensive than a standard one, but it's a much safer and more reliable alternative to ensure that someone else is unable to start your car.

Keyless Entry System

As increasing numbers of people want security, convenience, and safety, car key fobs have become a standard feature. They can open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, or even start the engine without having a physical key. They can also endure quite a beating from being tossed around, and they are more likely to be lost or stolen than the metal keys. This means they're costly to replace, and you may need fob programming to pair your new key with your vehicle.

A standard key fob can cost around ten dollars to get cut at an hardware store, but the latest smart keys aren't cheap if you need to buy them and then have them programmed. Based on the model and make you can expect to shell out between $200-$500 for a replacement fob, plus the cost of having it cut and programmed to your car.

There are additionally more advanced car key systems that let you make use of your smartphone as a key. Using the app on your smartphone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car, and you can also turn your lights on and off, activate your parking brake, and do other things based on your proximity to the car. This is ideal for people who reside in urban areas, or if you have kids and are worried about children leaving the car unattended.

Some of these systems are costly however, they're more secure than a regular car key as they locate you and prevent you from accidentally locking the car or turning the engine on if you're too far away. Certain systems will help you locate your vehicle in a garage, while others will notify you when you close or open the doors.

These types of systems can also be useful for businesses, such as property managers who manage vacation rentals or office spaces. These systems allow them to monitor access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those who have permissions are allowed in and out.

Dealership

Some people believe that they should go to the dealer if their keys are missing. The dealer will ask for proof of ownership, and could purchase keys from the manufacturer. This could take a few days. A dealer can usually do the job quicker than a locksmith, and could even cost less.

The key fob may still need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by reading the owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, as well as turning on and off lights and other electronic devices. It could also involve pressing a combination of buttons which acts as an electronic code. This can often be done by the drivers, but it's always better to let an expert manage it.

The year the model, make and year of the vehicle will impact the price as well. Modern cars feature advanced transponder chips that require pairing with the car by a locksmith or dealer, and the process can be more expensive.

A dealer who sells specific brand fobs of car is more likely be able to replace the keys for the vehicle. Some of the biggest manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan, have a large number of models, and are more familiar with the keys that are used for those models.

Some brands are harder to work with. Some of the more established 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 no longer produce keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these keys require reprogramming which is more complicated and costly than replacing the key itself.

In general, if you have a spare key, it is usually best to duplicate it at an expert instead of obtaining a replacement key fobs for cars from the dealer. You will not have to pay the more expensive rates for after-hours or weekend services. Then, if you lose your keys, you can rest easy knowing that the cloned key will work.