Car Keys Replacement Cost

Not long ago, misplacing your keys to your car wasn't an issue. You could take your spare to a key cutter and get an additional one for $10 or less.

Today, however, the process is more complicated and expensive. Find out more about the different types of keys for cars and how they'll cost you to replace.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob is an electronic remote control and an actual key in one. It's tiny, plastic device equipped with a button which can be pushed to open doors, open the hatchback or trunk, roll down windows and maybe even start your car. The key fob has an electronic chip in it that communicates with the car's onboard systems for controlling functions like the starter.

A basic key fob is usually made of standard plastic and uses a regular lock-and-key mechanism, like the kind you might find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob may cost between $50 and $100, but the real cost is when you need to replace a lost or damaged one.

You'll likely have to visit the dealer if your car is older than five years old. A lot of newer vehicles require special equipment to code and programme new keys. Locksmiths or key shops typically can do this for less, however.

The kind of fob you own can also impact the cost for replacement car key. Older vehicles have mechanical key fobs, while modern models have transponder keys. Both types of key fobs can come with a variety of features. They could include keyless entry that locks and unlocks your car automatically, or rolling codes that are changed frequently to keep thieves from intercepting the data on the key fob.

You may be able to purchase an aftermarket key fob for less than what you'd pay at the dealership however they might not be compatible with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru include security chips in their key fobs that prevent them from working with third-party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in, but there's a good chance that it won't work.

Check your owner's manual or visit the manufacturer's website for information about programming your particular model's key fob. It's a good idea to try this yourself before heading to the dealership or hiring a locksmith to do it. You could also check the warranty of your vehicle, the auto-insurance policy and roadside assistance coverage to determine if they cover the costs of a replacement key fob.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are found in the majority of modern cars. The keys contain embedded chips in the head that sends a message to the vehicle once it is inserted in 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 key because the transponder chip prevents the car from starting without the correct signal. This technology was designed to prevent theft of cars because it is almost impossible to duplicate these keys without the proper equipment.

Many cars are also fitted with immobilizers which prevent the vehicle from starting when they are operated with keys that are not transponder. However, thieves have also developed ways to steal and break into cars with transponder keys.

A locksmith can help replace your transponder key if it's damaged or stolen. They will need to have the details of your particular vehicle, such as the VIN number along with the year, model and year. They can then either program your existing key to the car's system, or cut a new one. This is a little more expensive than simply getting a car dealership to cut and program a replacement car key costs key.

Some automotive stores like AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and copy transponder keys but they aren't capable of reprogramming chips in the key. If you want to be sure that a professional will be able to handle the job, seek out a reputable and experienced locksmith business.

Before the invention of technology like this, it was relatively easy to make duplicate car keys and then hot wire a vehicle. This method of stealing cars was very widespread and [Redirect-307] allowed criminals to get into and drive off with stolen vehicles. The advent of the transponder key has drastically reduced this crime however, it's not completely eliminated.

You can get an expert to do this for you in the event that you require an extra transponder key or if you lost yours. The cost will be more than a conventional key, however it's a safer and more secure method to ensure that your vehicle cannot be started by someone else.

Keyless Entry System

Car key fobs are becoming a standard feature in vehicles as people are seeking convenience, safety and security. These transmitters are able to open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, and even start the engine without the physical key. They can also take some abuse from being used in a variety of ways, and they are more likely to be lost or stolen than the metal keys. It's expensive to replace keys, and you might need to program your new fob to pair it with your vehicle.

A basic key fob costs around ten dollars to get cut at an hardware store, but the most recent smart keys aren't cheap when you need to buy them and then have them programmed. It is possible to spend between $200 and $500 on the replacement key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed for your car.

Certain advanced car key systems allow you to make use of your smartphone as keys. By using the app on your smartphone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car, and you can turn your lights on and off, as well as activate your parking brake, and do other things depending on the proximity of your car. These are great for people who live in urban areas, or if you're a parent that's worried about your children leaving the car without supervision.

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

These kinds of systems could also be useful for companies, such as property managers that oversee office space or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to monitor access rights for guests cleaners, guests, and maintenance staff, as well as making sure that only those with the proper permissions can go in and out of the space.

Dealership

Some people might feel that they must go to the dealership when keys go missing. They'll need to provide proof of ownership, and occasionally the key must be ordered from the manufacturer which could take a few days. A dealer is usually able to complete the job faster than a locksmith and might even cost less.

The key fob might require programming for 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 switching off and on lights and other electronic devices. It could also involve pressing a combination of buttons which acts as an electronic code. It is usually done by the driver, but it is better to have a technician do it.

The year the car was manufactured, its model and make of the car will impact the cost as well. Modern cars come with high-tech transponder chips that will require pairing with the vehicle by a locksmith or dealer and the process could be more expensive.

A dealer who sells a specific model of car is more likely to have the knowledge to replace keys for that model. Some of the larger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have several models and are familiar with keys.

Certain brands are difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have been shut down or are old enough that they no longer produce keys are included. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are a few of the more established 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 complicated than replacing the key.

In general, if you have a spare key it is best to duplicate it at a specialist rather than getting an exchange from the dealer. You will avoid paying higher prices for after-hours and Download free weekend services. Then, if you lose your keys, you can rest assured that the key cloned will work.