Car Keys Replacement Cost

It wasn't long ago that misplacing keys to your car was not a problem. You could take your spare keys to an a key cutter and buy an additional one for $10 or less.

However, Car Keys Replacement Cost the process has become more complicated and costly. Find out about the various kinds and costs for keys for cars.

Basic Key Fob

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

Basic key fobs are usually made of standard plastic and utilize a standard lock and key mechanism. They're identical to those found on old Pontiacs or Saturns. A basic key fob can cost anything from $50 to $100, but the actual cost is when you need to replace a lost or damaged one.

If your car was built within the last five years, chances are you'll need to go to the dealership to get a replacement fob as many newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or key shop will usually be able to do this for car keys replacement cost less, however.

The cost of your fob can depend on the type of fob you have. Older cars have mechanical key fobs, while modern models have transponder keys. Key fobs of both types can come with a range of features. They may include keyless entry which locks and unlocks your car automatically, or rolling codes that are changed frequently to stop thieves from stealing the information on your key fob.

It's possible to purchase an aftermarket key fob online for less than what you'd pay at the dealership, but these may not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that prevent their key fobs from interfacing with third party devices. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob if it's purchased, but it's highly unlikely that it will function.

Go through your owner's manual or visit the manufacturer's website for more information about programming your particular model's key fob. Try to do this yourself first before paying an expert locksmith or visiting the dealer. You can also look into your vehicle's warranty and auto-insurance policy to determine whether they will cover the cost of replacing a key fob.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are found in the majority of modern cars. They have embedded chips in the head that sends an electronic message to the vehicle once it is put into the ignition cylinder. The signal is used to unlock the car and begin the engine. This key is more secure than the traditional flat metal keys because the transponder chip blocks cars from starting without the correct signal. This technology was designed to stop car theft since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the right equipment.

Many vehicles are also equipped with immobilizers that stop them from starting when they are operated by keys that do not have a transponder. Car thieves have come up with methods to steal vehicles with transponder key systems.

A locksmith can usually help you replace a lost or damaged transponder key. They'll need the information about your specific vehicle, such as the VIN number, model and year. They will then either program the key you have to the car's computer system or cut an entirely new one. This is a more costly procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement car keys keys.

Some auto stores, such as AutoZone and Walmart are also capable of cutting and copying the transponder key, however they might not be able to reprogram the chip 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.

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

You can contact an expert to do this for you if you need an extra transponder key or if you lost yours. It's more expensive than a standard key, 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 now a standard feature of vehicles as people are seeking convenience, safety and security. These transmitters can open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, or even start the engine without an actual key. They can also be subject to a lot of abuse from being tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen than metal keys. This means they're costly to replace, and you could require fob programming to connect the new key with your vehicle.

A standard key fob can cost ten or so dollars to cut at an hardware store, but the most recent smart keys can be expensive if you're looking to purchase them and then have them programmed. Based on the make and model you could expect to shell out between $200 to $500 to replace a fob plus the cost of cutting it and programming it to your car.

Some sophisticated car key systems let you make use of your smartphone as a key. Using the app on your phone, you can remote lock or unlock your car and you can also switch your lights on and off, activate your parking brake, and do other things based on your proximity to the car. These are great for people who reside in urban areas, or even if you're a parent that's worried about your kids leaving the car without supervision.

Some of these systems can be expensive however they're also more secure than a standard car key as they track your location and prevent you from accidentally locking the car or turning off the engine if you're too far away. Certain of these systems will help you locate your vehicle in a garage, while others can alert you if you shut or open the doors.

These kinds of systems could also be beneficial to businesses, like property managers who oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to control access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also make sure that only those with permissions are allowed to enter and exit the premises.

Dealership

Some people believe they need to visit a dealer when their keys are missing. They'll need to provide proof of ownership, and sometimes keys must be purchased from the manufacturer, which can take a few days. But a dealer can also generally complete the task for you faster than a locksmith, and they may have cheaper prices, too.

The key fob may still require to be programmed for your car. This can be done at the dealership or by reading the owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, as well as switching off and on lights and other electronic devices. It may even require pressing a series of buttons that act as a code. This is often handled by the drivers, but it's best to let a technician take care of it.

The year, make and model of the car will affect the price, too. The cost of the service could also be affected by the year, make and model of the vehicle.

A dealer that sells a certain model will be more likely to have the knowledge to change keys for that model. Some of the larger manufacturers, such as 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 old enough that they no longer produce keys are included. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are among the older companies that do not produce keys anymore. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. The keys are typically changed. This is more expensive and difficult than replacing the key.

In general, if you have a spare key, it is recommended to have it cloned at an expert instead of obtaining an alternative from the dealer. You will avoid paying higher prices for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys you are assured that the cloned key will function.