Car Keys Replacement Cost

A few years ago, losing your car keys was not an issue. You could bring your spare to an a key replacement car cutter and buy a new one for $10 or less.

Today, however the process can be more complicated and expensive. Learn about the various types and costs for car keys.

Basic Key Fob

Key fobs are an electronic remote control and an actual key in one. It's a small, plastic device that contains one or more buttons that you press to unlock the doors and trunk, open the hatchback, open the windows, and possibly start the car. The key fob also comes with an electronic chip inside that communicates with the car's onboard system to manage functions like the starter.

A basic key fob is typically constructed of plastic that uses a regular lock-and-key mechanism, such as the kind you might find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob may cost anything from $50 to $100, but the true cost is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one.

If your car keys replacements was built in the past five years, chances that you'll have to visit the dealership for a replacement fob, as many newer cars 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 also impact the cost. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, while modern models usually come with transponder keys or smart keys. Both can have a wide range of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the car 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 purchase an aftermarket key fob online at a lower cost than what you'd pay at the dealership, but these may not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru, have security chips inside their key fobs that block them from working with third-party devices. Some dealerships will program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in however there's a high chance that it won't work.

Check your owner's manual or go to the manufacturer's site to find information about programming your particular model's key fob. It's a good idea to try this yourself before going to the dealership or paying a locksmith to do it. You can also look into your vehicle's warranty and auto-insurance policy to determine if they cover the cost of a new key fob.

Transponder Key

Most modern cars utilize keys that are known as transponder keys. They have a chip embedded in the head of the key which transmits a signal the vehicle when it is inserted into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and begin the engine. This key type is more secure than conventional flat metal keys since transponder chips prevent the car from starting if it fails to receive an appropriate signal from the key. This technology was developed to stop car theft since it is almost impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the right equipment.

Many cars are also fitted with immobilizers that prevent the vehicle from starting when they are operated with keys that are not transponder. Car thieves have devised ways to steal cars equipped with transponder key systems.

A locksmith can usually assist you in replacing a lost or damaged transponder key. They'll require the details of your particular vehicle, such as the VIN number along with the year, model and year. Then they will cut a new key or program the current one to your car's system. This process is a bit more expensive than getting a car dealership to cut and program a new key.

Some automotive stores, like AutoZone and Walmart are also capable of cutting and re-copying the transponder keys, however they might not be able to reprogram the chip inside the key. It is best to call an experienced and reliable locksmith company if you want to be sure that a professional will be competent to complete the task.

It was relatively easy to create a duplicate key for a car and wire a vehicle prior to the advent of this modern technology. This method was used to steal cars and permitted criminals to steal stolen vehicles. The advent of transponder keys has drastically reduced this crime, but it is not completely eliminated.

You can call an expert to handle this for you if you require an alternative transponder key or if you've lost yours. It's more expensive than a standard key, but it's a much safer and better option to ensure that someone else is unable to start your car.

Keyless Entry System

As increasing numbers of people seek security, convenience, and safety, car key fobs have become a standard feature. These tiny transmitters can open doors, set off the alarm for panic, open the trunk, and even start your engine without needing to have a physical key in your hands. However, they also take a lot of abuse from being tossed around, and they're more likely to get lost or stolen than the metal keys. It's costly to replace them, and you may require programming your new fob to pair it with your vehicle.

The cost of cutting a standard key fob at an hardware store is around 10 dollars. However, the latest smart keys can be expensive if you have to buy them and then program them. It is possible to spend between $200 and $500 for an alternative key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed for your car.

There are additionally more advanced car key systems that let you make use of your smartphone as an actual key. Using the app on your smartphone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car and you can also switch your lights on and off, turn off your parking brake, and do other things based on your proximity to the car. These apps are ideal for those who live in urban areas, or even parents who are worried about your children leaving the car unattended.

Some of these systems are costly, but they're also more secure than a regular car Key fobs replacement key since they track your location and prevent you from accidentally locking the car or turning off the engine if you're too far away. They can also help you locate your car in garages that have parking spaces and even alert you if the doors have been opened or closed.

These types of systems can also be beneficial to businesses, such as property managers that oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to control access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also make sure that only those who have permissions are permitted to enter and exit.

Dealership

Some people may think that they must visit a dealership if keys go missing. They will need to show proof of ownership, and sometimes keys must be purchased from the manufacturer, which could take several days. But a dealer can also usually get the job done for you much faster than a locksmith, and they may have cheaper prices, as well.

The key fob might require to be programmed for your car. This can be done at the dealership, or by consulting the owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, and switching off and on lights and other electronic devices. It can even require pressing a set of buttons that functions as a code. It is usually performed by the driver, but it is always better to have a technician do it.

The cost is also affected by the year, make and model of vehicle. The cost of the service could be affected by the year, make and model of the vehicle.

A dealer that sells a certain model will be more likely to know how to replace keys for the model. Some of the bigger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have a variety of models and are familiar with the keys.

Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have closed or that are old enough that they no longer produce keys are listed. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. Typically, these types of keys need to be reprogrammed which is more difficult and expensive than replacing the key itself.

If you have a spare key it is recommended to duplicate it at an expert instead of obtaining an alternative from the dealer. This way, you avoid having to pay for the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. Then, if you do lose your keys, you can rest assured that the cloned key will work.