Car Keys Replacement Cost

Not long ago, misplacing your car key cover replacement keys was not a big deal. You could take your spare key to a key cutting shop for a new one that cost $10 or less.

Today, however the process can be more complicated and costly. Find out more about the various types of keys for cars and how they'll cost you to replace them.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob can be described as a remote and key in one. It's a small, plastic device equipped with a button which you can press to unlock doors or hatchbacks, open the trunk, lower windows, and possibly even start the car. The key fob has an electronic chip embedded that communicates with your car's onboard systems to control functions like the starter.

A basic key fob is typically made of standard plastic and employs a lock-and key mechanism, such as the kind you might find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob costs anywhere between $50 to $100, however you'll pay more if need to replace one that has been lost or damaged.

You'll probably need to visit a dealer if your vehicle is more than five years old. Many newer cars require special equipment to code and programme new keys. A locksmith or a key shop will usually be able to perform this task for less, though.

The cost of your fob could also be affected by the type you have. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, while modern models have transponder keys. Both can have a wide range of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the vehicle automatically to rolling codes that change regularly to prevent thieves from taking and using the key fob information of your car.

Key fobs purchased online may be less expensive than ones you can get from the dealer, but they might not work on your car. Certain manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru, have security chips inside their key fobs that prevent them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealers can program an aftermarket key fob if it's purchased, but it's very likely that it won't function.

You can find information about programming your key fob by looking up the site of the manufacturer or in your owner's guide. Try to do this yourself prior to paying for a locksmith or going to the dealer. You can also check your car's warranty, roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance coverage to see if these cover the costs of a replacement key fob.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are found in the majority of newer automobiles. They have an embedded chip inside the head of the key that transmits a signal to the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and launching the engine. This key is more secure than the traditional flat metal key because the transponder chip blocks the car from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was designed to stop car theft since it is almost impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the appropriate equipment.

Additionally, many cars also come with immobilizer systems that stop them from starting if the key is not transponder-compatible. However, car thieves have also devised methods to steal and break into cars that are equipped with transponder keys.

A locksmith will usually be able to help you replace a lost or damaged transponder key. They'll need information about your vehicle like the VIN number and model. They will then cut a new key or program the one they have to your car's system. This is a little more expensive than cutting a key from a dealership and program a new key.

Some automotive stores like AutoZone or Walmart can cut and copy transponder keys, but they aren't capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. If you want to ensure that a professional can handle the task, you should contact an experienced and trusted locksmith company.

It was fairly easy to create a duplicate key for a car and then hot-wire a car prior to the advent of this new technology. This method was used to steal cars and allowed criminals drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have greatly reduced the risk of this crime, but not entirely eliminated it.

If you require a new transponder key, or have lost yours, the best option is to contact an expert and let them create it for you. The cost will be more than a standard key, but it is a much safer and better way to ensure that your car cannot be started by someone else.

Keyless Entry System

As increasing numbers of people want convenience, security and safety, car key fobs have become a standard feature. These tiny devices can unlock doors, activate the alarm that sounds a panic or open the trunk and even start your car without having to carry a physical key in your hand. But they can also take some abuse from being used in a variety of ways, and they are more likely to get lost or stolen than metal keys. They're also expensive to replace, and you may need fob programming to pair your new key with your vehicle.

A standard key fob can cost about ten dollars to get cut at the hardware store, however the most recent smart keys can be expensive if you want to purchase them and 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.

Some sophisticated car key systems let you make use of your smartphone as a key. You can lock or unlock your car via the app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn on and off your lights, turn on your parking break, and do other things based on how close you are to the vehicle. These are great for people who reside in urban areas, or if you're a parent that's worried about your kids leaving the car unattended.

Some of these systems could be expensive, but they are more secure than a regular car key. They monitor your location to stop you from locking or opening the car when you are far away. They also can help you locate your car in a parking garage, and some can warn you if the doors have been open or closed.

These kinds of systems can also be useful for companies, 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 ensure that only those with permissions are allowed to enter and exit the premises.

Dealership

Some people feel they must go to the dealer if keys are missing. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership, and could order keys from the manufacturer. This could take a few days. However, a dealer can typically complete the task for you faster than locksmiths, and they may have cheaper prices, as well.

It is likely that the key fob will need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealer or by reading the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, as well as switching off and on lights and other electronic devices. It could even require pressing a series of buttons that act as an electronic code. Often, this can be done by the driver, but it is better to have a technician handle it.

The year the model, make and year of the car will affect the price as well. Newer cars have sophisticated transponder chips which will require pairing with the vehicle by a locksmith or a dealer and the process may be more costly.

A dealer that sells a specific model of car is more likely be able to replace the keys for the vehicle. Some of the larger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a wide variety of models and are more familiar with the keys that are used for those models.

Certain brands are difficult to work with. This includes some of the more established companies that have shut down, or are old enough to have keys that are no longer in production. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are some of the companies that are older and do not produce keys anymore. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Car Keys Replacement Cost Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. The keys are typically modified. This is more expensive and time-consuming than replacing the key.

In general, if you have a spare key, it is best to duplicate it at a specialist instead of getting a replacement from the dealer. So, you don't have to worry about having to pay the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. If you do lose your keys you can rest easy knowing that the copied key will function.