Car Keys Replacement Cost

A few years ago, losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could bring your spare to a key cutter and get a new one for just $10 or less.

Nowadays, however, the process can be more complicated and costly. Learn about the various types and costs of car keys replacements keys.

Basic Key Fob

Key fobs are a remote and key in one. It's a small, plastic device that houses one or more buttons that you push to unlock the doors and open the trunk or hatchback, lower the windows, and perhaps start the car. The key fob has an electronic chip in it that communicates with your car's onboard systems for controlling functions like the starter.

Key fobs for basic use are typically made from standard plastic, and utilize a standard lock and key mechanism. They are identical to those that were used on the old Pontiacs and Saturns. A basic key fob can cost anywhere between $50 to $100, however you'll pay more if you need to replace one that has been lost or damaged.

You'll likely have to visit the dealer if your vehicle is more than five years old. Many newer cars require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or key shop is usually able to do this at a lower cost.

The cost of car key replacement of your fob can depend on the type of fob you have. Older cars use mechanical keys, while the most recent models utilize transponder keys. Both come with a variety of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle instantly to rolling codes that are updated regularly to stop thieves from stealing and using your car's key fob data.

It's possible to buy an aftermarket key fob at a lower cost than what you'd pay at a dealership however, they may not work with your car. Some manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru, have security chips inside their key fobs that block them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealers can program an aftermarket key fob when it's brought in, however it's likely that it won't function.

You can find out more about programming your key fob by looking up the manufacturer's site or the owner's guide. It's worth trying this yourself before heading to the dealership or hiring a locksmith to do it. You can also look into your car's warranty and auto insurance policy to see whether they cover the cost of a new key fob.

Transponder Key

Most modern cars utilize a type of key called a transponder key. The keys contain an embedded chip in the head that sends a message to the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and begin the engine. This key is more secure than a conventional flat metal key due to the transponder chip stops a car from starting without the proper signal. This technology was created to prevent theft of cars because it is virtually impossible to duplicate these keys without the right equipment.

Many vehicles are also equipped with immobilizers which prevent them from starting if they are used with keys that are not transponder. Car thieves have devised ways to steal cars equipped with transponder key systems.

A locksmith can help you to replace your transponder keys if it's damaged or stolen. They'll need the information about your specific vehicle, including the VIN number, model and year. They'll either program the key you have to the car's computer system or cut new car key replacement keys. This is a more expensive process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.

Some automotive stores like AutoZone or Walmart can cut and duplicate transponder keys but they aren't capable of reprogramming chips in the key. It is best to call an experienced and reputable locksmith firm to ensure that a professional is competent to complete the task.

Before the advent of this technology it was quite simple to create a duplicate car key and then hot wire a car. This technique was used to steal cars, and it allowed criminals drive away with stolen vehicles. The advent of the transponder key has greatly reduced the likelihood of this happening but it's not completely eliminated.

If you require a new transponder keys or you've lost yours, the best solution is to contact an expert and let them do it for you. The cost will be higher than a conventional key, but it is a much safer and better method to ensure that your car is not able to be started by anyone else.

Keyless Entry System

Car key fobs are now a standard feature of vehicles as more people seek convenience, safety and security. These devices can open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, or start the engine without having the physical key. They can be thrown around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. It's costly to replace them, and you may require programming your new key to pair it with your vehicle.

The cost of cutting a standard fob for a key at a hardware store is about ten dollars. However, the latest smart keys can be expensive when you need to purchase them as well as programme them. Depending on your vehicle make and model you could expect to pay anywhere from $200 and $500 to replace a fob plus the cost of having it cut and programmed to your vehicle.

Some advanced car key systems 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 switch your lights on and off, activate your parking brake, and do other things based on the proximity of your car. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas or even parents who are concerned about your children leaving the car without supervision.

Some of these systems can be expensive, but are more secure than a standard car key. They monitor your location to stop you from locking or starting the car if you are too far from. They can also assist you to locate your car inside a parking garage and even alert you if the doors have been open or closed.

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

Dealership

Some people feel they must visit a dealer when their keys are missing. They'll have to show proof of ownership, and occasionally the key must be ordered from the manufacturer which can take a few days. But a dealer will generally complete the task for you faster than a locksmith, and they might have lower prices, as well.

It is likely that the key fob will require programming to your vehicle. This can be done either through the dealer or reading the owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, as well as switching off and on lights and other electronic devices. It can even require pressing a set of buttons which acts as an electronic code. This is often handled by the driver, but it is always best to let a technician take care of it.

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

A dealer that sells a specific brand of vehicle is more likely to know how to replace keys for that vehicle. Some of the larger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a huge number of models and are more acquainted with the keys for those models.

Certain brands are difficult to work with. Some of the more established brands that have been shut down or that are old enough that they no longer produce keys are listed. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are a few of the more established companies that no longer produce keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these kinds of keys have to be reprogrammed, which can be more difficult and expensive than replacing the key itself.

It is recommended that you have your spare key cloned by a professional instead of getting an entirely 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 can be sure that the duplicate will function.