Car Keys Replacement Cost

In the past, losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could take your spare key to a key cutter and get a new one that cost $10 or less.

Today, however the process is more complicated and costly. Learn about the different types and costs for keys for cars.

Basic Key Fob

Key fobs are an electronic remote control and a key in one. It's a small, plastic piece equipped with a button which can be pushed to open doors, open the hatchback or trunk, roll down windows, and possibly even start your car. The key fob also 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 typically constructed of plastic that utilizes a standard lock-and-key mechanism, such as the one you'd find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost anywhere from $50 to $100, but the true price is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one.

You'll likely have to visit a dealer if the car is older than five years old. Most newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or a key shop can usually perform this task for less, however.

The type of fob you're using can affect the price. Older cars have mechanical keys, whereas the most recent models typically have 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 automatically to changing codes on a regular basis to stop thieves from stealing and stealing the key fob information of your car.

You might be able to purchase an aftermarket key fob at a lower cost of a replacement car key replacements for cars (more..) than what you'd pay at the dealership however they might not work with your car. Some manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips inside their key fobs that prevent them from working with third-party devices. Some dealerships will program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in however there's a high chance that it won't work.

Go through your owner's manual or search the manufacturer's website for more information about programming your particular model's key fob. It's worth trying to do this yourself before going to the dealer or hiring an expert locksmith to do it. You may also want to check the warranty on your vehicle and the auto-insurance policy to see if they cover the cost of a brand new key fob.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are found in most newer cars. The keys contain embedded chips in the head which transmits a message to the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and for starting the engine. This key is more secure than the conventional flat metal key due to the transponder chip stops a car from starting without the correct signal. This technology was developed to prevent theft of cars because it is virtually impossible to duplicate these keys without the proper equipment.

In addition, many cars also come with immobilizer systems that stop them from starting when keys that are not transponder compatible are used. However, thieves have also developed methods to gain access and steal vehicles that have transponder keys.

A locksmith can usually assist you in replacing the damaged or lost transponder key. They will need the details about your car, such as the VIN number and model. Then they will either cut a new key or program the one they have to your car's system. This is a more costly process than having a dealership cut and Cost Of a replacement car key program replacement keys.

Some stores for automotive like AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and copy transponder keys however, they may not be capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. It is best to call an experienced and reputable locksmith service to be sure that a professional will be competent to complete the task.

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

You can get a professional to do this for you if you require an extra transponder key or if you lost yours. The cost will be higher than a standard key, but it's a safer and more secure method to ensure that your car can't be started by anyone else.

Keyless Entry System

As increasing numbers of people seek security, convenience, and safety, car key fobs are now a standard feature. These transmitters are able to open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, or start the engine without having the physical key. However, they also endure some abuse from being tossed around, and are more likely to get lost or stolen than metal keys. That means they're expensive to replace, and you may need fob programming to pair your new one with your vehicle.

The cost of cutting a standard fob for a key at a hardware store is about ten dollars. However, the most recent smart keys can be expensive if you must purchase them as well as programme them. You should expect to pay between $200 and $500 for an alternative key fob. This includes the cost to have it cut and programmed for your car key replacement online.

Some sophisticated car key systems allow you to make use of your smartphone as keys. Using the app on your phone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car, and you can switch your lights on and off, activate your parking brake, and perform other things depending on your proximity to the car. This is ideal for people who live in urban areas or if you have children and worry about children leaving the car unattended.

Certain of these systems may be expensive, but they are more secure than the standard car key. They track your location to prevent you from locking or starting the car if you're far from. Some of these systems can help you locate your car in a garage, and others will notify you when you close or open the doors.

These kinds of systems can also be beneficial for companies, such as property managers who manage office space or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to monitor the access rights of guests as well as cleaning staff and maintenance workers, while ensuring that only those with the proper permissions can go in and out of the space.

Dealership

Some people may think that they have to go to the dealership when their keys disappear. The dealer will request proof of ownership and order keys from the manufacturer. This can take several days. However, a dealer can usually get the job done for you quicker than a locksmith, and they may have cheaper prices, as well.

It is likely that the key fob will still need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by referring to your owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, as well as turning on and off lights and other electronic devices. It could even require pressing a set of buttons that act as an electronic code. This can often be done by the drivers, but it's always better to let a technician handle it.

The year the model, make and year of the vehicle will affect the price as well. The cost of the service can also be affected by the year, make and model of the vehicle.

A dealer who sells a particular brand of car will be more likely to have the knowledge to replace keys for the model. Some of the bigger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan, have a large number of models and are more acquainted with the keys for the models they sell.

Some brands are harder to work with. This includes some of the older firms that have been shut down or are old enough to have keys that are no longer being produced. 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. These keys are usually changed. This is more expensive and difficult than replacing the key.

It is recommended that you have your spare key cloned by a specialist rather than purchasing a new one from the dealer. You will not have to pay the higher rates for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys you are assured that the cloned key will work.