Car Keys Replacement Cost

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

Today, however, the process is more complicated and costly. Read on to learn about the various types of keys for cars and what they'll cost you to replace.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob can be described as a remote control and an actual key in one. It's a tiny plastic device that contains one or more buttons that you can push to unlock the doors and trunk, open the hatchback, lower the windows and maybe even start the car. The key fob has an electronic chip built in that communicates with the car's onboard systems to control functions such as the starter.

Key fobs for basic use are typically made from standard plastic, and use a regular lock and key mechanism. These are similar to the ones found on old Pontiacs as well as Saturns. A basic key fob can cost anything from $50 to $100, but the real 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 key shop can usually perform this task for less, however.

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

It's possible to buy an aftermarket key fob online for less than what you'd pay at a dealership however they might not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru, include security chips in their key fobs that block them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob when it's brought in, however it's likely that it won't work.

Read the owner's manual for your model or search the manufacturer's website to find information about programming your particular model's key fob. It's worth trying to do this yourself prior to going to the dealership or hiring a locksmith to do it. You can also look at your vehicle's warranty, auto-insurance policy and roadside assistance coverage to see if these will cover the cost of a replacement fob for your key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are found in most newer cars. The keys have an embedded chip in the key's head that sends a signal to the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and start the engine. This key type is more secure than standard flat metal keys due to transponder chips stop the car from starting if it fails to receive an appropriate signal from the key. This technology was created to reduce car theft because it is virtually impossible to duplicate keys without the appropriate equipment.

Many cars are also fitted with immobilizers that prevent the vehicle from starting when they are operated by keys that do not have a transponder. Car thieves have developed methods of stealing cars with transponder key systems.

A locksmith can assist you to replace your transponder keys if it is damaged or lost. They will need the information about your vehicle including the VIN number and model. They will then cut a new key or program the existing one to your car's system. This is a more costly procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement key fob for car keys.

Some auto stores, such as AutoZone and Walmart can also be capable of cutting and copying the transponder keys, however they may not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. If you want to be sure that a professional will be able to handle the task, you should contact an experienced and trusted locksmith service.

Before the invention of this technology it was fairly easy to make duplicate car keys and then hot wire a car. This was a method used to steal cars and allowed criminals to drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have greatly reduced the risk of this crime, but it isn't entirely eliminated it.

If you need a new transponder key or you have lost yours, the best solution is to contact an expert and have them do it for you. The cost will be more than a conventional key, however it's a safer and better method to ensure that your vehicle cannot be started by someone else.

Keyless Entry System

car key replacement service key fobs are becoming a standard feature of vehicles, as more and people are seeking convenience, safety, and security. These transmitters are able to open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, and even start the engine without having an actual key. They can be thrown around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. They're also expensive to replace, and you might need fob programming to pair the new key with your vehicle.

The cost of cutting a basic key fob in a hardware shop is around ten dollars. However, the latest smart keys can be expensive when you need to purchase them and then program them. Depending on your vehicle make and model, you can expect to pay between $200 and $500 for a replacement fob, in addition to the cost of cutting it and programming it to your vehicle.

Some sophisticated car key systems let you use your smartphone as keys. You can lock or unlock your car key replacement without original remotely using the app on your smartphone. You can also turn on and off your lights, activate your parking break, and perform other tasks depending on how close you are to your car. This is ideal for people who reside in urban areas or if you have kids and worry about your children being in the car without supervision.

Some of these systems can be expensive however they're also more secure than a standard car key since they track your location and prevent you from accidentally locking the car key cover replacement or turning the engine on when you're far away. Some of these systems can help you locate your vehicle in a garage, while others will notify you when you close or open the doors.

These kinds of systems could also be beneficial for companies, such as property managers who manage office space or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to monitor access rights of guests as well as cleaning staff and maintenance personnel, while making sure that only those with the appropriate permissions are allowed to get in and out of the space.

Dealership

Some people feel they must go to the dealer when their keys are missing. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership and may order keys from the manufacturer. This can take several days. However, a dealer can typically complete the task for you much faster than locksmiths, and they might have lower prices, too.

It is likely that the key fob will still require programming to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by referring to the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors and turning lights and other electronics on and off. It could even require pressing a set of buttons that acts like an electronic code. This is usually handled by the driver, but it is always best to let an expert take care of it.

The year the car was manufactured, its model and make of the vehicle will affect the price, too. Modern cars feature high-tech transponder chips that will need to be paired with the vehicle by a locksmith or a dealer and the process could be more costly.

A dealer who sells specific model of car is more likely to know how to replace the keys for that vehicle. Some of the biggest manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan, have a large variety of models and are more acquainted with the keys that are used for the specific models.

Certain brands are more difficult to work with. This includes some of the more established companies that have closed, or are old enough to have keys that are no longer being produced. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. Typically, these kinds of keys have to be reprogrammed and can be more difficult and expensive than replacing the key itself.

In general, if you have a spare key it is recommended to have it cloned at a specialist rather than getting a replacement from the dealer. That way you can avoid paying the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. If you lose your keys you can be sure that the cloned key will function.