Car Keys Replacement Cost

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

However the process has become more complicated and costly. Find out about the various kinds and costs of car keys.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob is a remote control and an actual key in one. It's a small, plastic piece equipped with a button which you can press to unlock doors or hatchbacks, open the trunk, lower windows and maybe even start the vehicle. The key fob comes with an electronic chip built in that communicates with your car's onboard systems to control functions such as the starter.

A basic key fob is typically constructed of plastic that employs a lock-and key mechanism, like the kind you might find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob could cost anything from $50 to $100, but the actual cost comes when you have to replace a lost or damaged one.

You'll likely need to visit the dealer if your vehicle is more than five years old. A lot of newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or key shop will usually be capable of doing this at a lower cost.

The kind of fob you own can affect the price. Older cars use mechanical key fobs while the modern models have transponder keys. Key fobs of both types are able to be fitted with a variety of features. They could include keyless entry, which locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically, or rolling codes that are changed regularly to prevent thieves from stealing the information on the key fob.

Key fobs purchased online may be cheaper than those you can buy at the dealer, but they might not work on your car. Certain manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips that prevent their key fobs from interacting with third party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket key fob, if it's purchased, but it's very likely that it won't function.

You can find information about programming your key fob by looking up the site of the manufacturer or in the owner's manual. It is recommended to try this yourself first before paying for a locksmith or going to the dealer. You can also look into the warranty on your vehicle and the auto-insurance policy to determine if they cover the cost of a new key fob.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are used in the majority of newer automobiles. They have an embedded chip in the head which transmits an electronic message to the vehicle once it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and starting the engine. This type of key is more secure than standard flat metal keys because a transponder chip prevents the Car keys Replacements from starting if it doesn't receive an appropriate signal from the key. This technology was created to prevent theft of cars because it is virtually impossible to duplicate these keys without the proper equipment.

Additionally, many vehicles also come with immobilizer systems that stop them from starting if the key is not transponder-compatible. However, car thieves have also developed methods to break into and steal cars that are equipped with transponder keys.

A locksmith can assist you replace your transponder key if it is damaged or lost. They'll require the details about your specific vehicle, such as the VIN number, model and year. Then, they'll cut a new one or program the existing one to your car's security system. This is a more costly process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.

Some stores for automotive, such as AutoZone and Walmart are also capable of cutting and copying the transponder key, however they might not be capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. It is recommended to contact a reputable and experienced locksmith firm to be sure that a professional will be competent to complete the task.

It was quite simple to create duplicate keys for a car and car keys replacements then wire a vehicle prior to the advent of this modern technology. This method of stealing cars was very widespread and allowed criminals to enter and drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have drastically reduced the risk of this crime, but not entirely eliminated it completely.

If you require a new transponder key, or have lost yours, the best choice is to contact an expert and let them make it for you. It will cost more than a standard one, but it's a much safer and more reliable option to ensure that someone else is unable to start your car.

Keyless Entry System

As increasing numbers of people seek convenience, security and safety keys for their cars are now a standard feature. They can open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, and even start the engine without an actual key. They can be tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. That means they're expensive to replace, and you could need fob programming to pair your new key with your vehicle.

A basic key fob will cost ten or so dollars to cut at a hardware store, but the most recent smart keys can be expensive if you need to buy them and have them programmed. Based on your car's make and model, you can expect to pay between $200-$500 for a replacement fob, in addition to the cost of cutting it and programming it to your vehicle.

Certain advanced car key systems let you use your phone as keys. You can lock or unlock your vehicle remotely using the app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn on and off your lights, activate your parking break, as well as perform other things based on the distance you're to your vehicle. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas or parents who are worried about your kids leaving the car without supervision.

Certain of these systems are costly, but they're also more secure than a regular car key as they track your location and prevent you from accidentally locking your car or turning on the engine when you're far away. They can also help you locate your car in parking garages, and some can warn you if the doors are opened or closed.

These types of systems can also be beneficial for businesses, such as property managers who manage vacation rentals or office spaces. These systems can allow them to monitor the access rights for guests as well as cleaning staff and maintenance staff, as well as ensuring that only those who have the right permissions can get in and out of the space.

Dealership

Some people believe that they should go to the dealer if their keys are missing. They'll need to provide proof of ownership, and occasionally the key has to be ordered from the manufacturer, which could take a few days. A dealer can usually do the job more quickly than a locksmith and could even charge less.

The key fob may still require programming for your car. This can be done at the dealership, or by reading the owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, and turning on and off lights and other electronic devices. It could even require pressing a set of buttons that act as an electronic code. Most of the time, this is performed by the driver but it is always better to have a technician handle it.

The year the car was manufactured, its model and make of the car will impact the price as well. Modern cars feature sophisticated transponder chips which will need to be paired with the car key cover replacement by a locksmith dealer, and the process can be more expensive.

A dealer who sells a particular model of car is more likely to have the knowledge to change keys for the model. Some of the bigger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have a variety of models and are familiar with keys.

Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have closed or are old enough that they no longer make keys are included. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn, and Eagle. 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 best to have it cloned at a specialist rather than getting a replacement from the dealer. So, you don't have to worry about paying the more expensive after-hours or weekend rates. If you lose your keys, you can be assured that the duplicate will function.