Car Keys Replacement Cost

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys to your car was not a major issue. You could take your spare key to a key cutting shop for an alternative that cost $10 or less.

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

Basic Key Fob

A key fob is both an remote as well as a key in one. It's a small, plastic piece with a button that can be pushed to open doors, open the hatchback or trunk, open windows, roll them down and maybe even start the vehicle. The key fob comes with an electronic chip embedded that communicates with your car's onboard systems for controlling functions like the starter.

Basic key fobs are made of standard plastic and use a regular lock and key mechanism. These are similar to the ones that were used on the old Pontiacs and Saturns. A basic key fob can cost anything from $50 to $100, but the actual cost comes when you have to replace a damaged or lost one.

If your car was made within the past five years, chances that you'll have to go to the dealership to get a replacement keys car fob as many newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or key shop is usually capable of doing this for less.

The cost of the fob you purchase can also depend on the type you own. Older cars have mechanical key fobs, while latest models use transponder keys. Key fobs of both kinds are able to be fitted with a range of features. They can include keyless entry, which locks and unlocks your car automatically or rolling codes that are updated regularly to prevent thieves from stealing the information on the key fob.

Key fobs purchased online may be less expensive than ones you can get from the dealer, but they may not work on your car. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips inside their key fobs that prevent them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealerships can program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in, but there's a good possibility that it won't work.

You can find information about programming your key fob by visiting the manufacturer's site or your owner's guide. Try to do this yourself before hiring an expert locksmith or visiting the dealer. You can also look into the warranty on your vehicle and the auto-insurance policy to see whether they cover the cost of a brand new key fob.

Transponder Key

The majority of newer cars have keys of a different type, known as a transponder key. The keys have a chip embedded in the head of the key which transmits a signal the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and launching the engine. This key is more secure than the conventional flat metal key due to the transponder chip stops a car replacement key cost from starting without the correct signal. This technology was designed to stop car theft since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the right equipment.

Additionally, many cars also come with immobilizer systems that stop them from starting if a non-transponder key is used. Car thieves have come up with methods to steal vehicles with transponder key systems.

A locksmith can assist you to replace your transponder keys if it is damaged or lost. They'll need details of your vehicle like the VIN number and model. They'll either program your existing key to the car's system or cut an entirely new one. This process is a bit more expensive than having a car dealership cut and program a replacement key.

Some auto stores such as AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and copy transponder keys, but they aren't capable of reprogramming the chip 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 company.

Before the invention of this technology it was quite easy to make duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a car. This method of stealing vehicles was common and allowed criminals to gain entry and drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have greatly reduced this crime, but they haven't completely eliminated it.

If you need a new transponder key, or have lost yours, the best choice is to contact an expert and have them make it for you. The cost will be more than a traditional key however it's a safer and more secure method to ensure that your car is not able to be started by anyone else.

Keyless Entry System

As increasing numbers of people want security, convenience, and safety keys for their cars have become a common feature. These tiny transmitters can open doors, set off the panic alarm, open the trunk, and even start your engine without needing the physical key in your hand. They can also endure some abuse from being tossed around, and they are more likely to be lost or stolen than traditional keys. It's expensive to replace keys, and you might need to program your new key to pair it with your vehicle.

The cost of cutting a basic fob for a key at an hardware store is around 10 dollars. However, the newest smart keys can be expensive if you have to buy them as well as programme them. Based on the make and model you can expect to pay between $200 to $500 for a replacement fob and the cost of cutting it and programming it to your vehicle.

Some advanced car key systems let you use your smartphone as keys. Using the app on your phone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car and you can switch on and off, as well as activate your parking brake, and perform other things based on your proximity to the car. These are perfect for those who live in urban areas or if you have kids and are worried about them leaving the car unattended.

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

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

Dealership

Some people might feel that they have to visit a dealership if their keys are lost. The dealer will request proof of ownership and may purchase the key from the manufacturer. This can take several days. But a dealer can also typically complete the task for you much faster than a locksmith, and they may offer lower prices too.

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 reading the owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, and switching off or on lights and other electronic devices. It can even require pressing a set of buttons that functions as a code. This is usually handled by the drivers, but it's best to let a technician take care of it.

The year the model, make and year of the vehicle will impact the price as well. Newer cars have advanced transponder chips that need to be paired with the car by a locksmith dealer and the process may be more costly.

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, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan, have a large number of models and are more acquainted with the keys for those models.

Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the more established brands that have shut down or are so old that they no longer make keys are listed. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn, and Eagle. These keys are usually modified. This is more expensive and difficult than replacing the key.

If you have a spare key it is usually best to duplicate it at an expert instead of obtaining an exchange from the dealer. This way, you avoid paying the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. If you lose your keys you can be assured that the cloned key will function.