Car Keys Replacement Cost

A few years ago, losing your car keys was not an issue. You could bring your spare key to a key cutter and get an alternative that cost $10 or less.

However the process has become more complicated and costly. Find out about the various kinds and costs for car keys.

Basic Key Fob

Key fobs are an remote as well as a key in one. It's a tiny plastic device that has buttons or buttons that you press to unlock the doors and open the trunk or hatchback, roll down the windows and Car Keys Replacement Cost maybe even start the car. The key fob also comes with a built-in electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard system to manage functions such as the starter.

Key fobs for basic use are typically made from standard plastic, and use a regular lock and key mechanism. They're similar to the ones found on old Pontiacs as well as Saturns. A basic key fob could cost anywhere from $50 to $100, but the true cost comes when you have to replace a damaged or lost one.

If your car was built within the last five years, chances that you'll have to visit the dealer for a replacement fob as many newer vehicles require specialized equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or key shop will typically be capable of doing this at a lower cost.

The type of fob you have can also impact the cost. Older cars use mechanical keys, while the latest models use transponder keys. Both types of keys come with a variety of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle in a controlled manner to rolling codes that are updated regularly to stop thieves from stealing and using the data from your key fob.

You may be able to buy an aftermarket key fob for less than what you'd pay at a dealership, but these may not work with your vehicle. Some manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru, have security chips inside their key fobs, which prevent them from working with third-party devices. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob, if it's brought in, but it's highly unlikely that it will work.

You can find out more about programming your key fob by looking up the website of the manufacturer or your owner's guide. It's worth trying to do this yourself before heading to the dealer or hiring a locksmith to do it. You can also look at your vehicle's warranty, roadside assistance and auto-insurance coverage to determine if they will cover the cost of a replacement key fob.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are utilized in most newer cars. These keys contain an embedded chip inside the key's head which transmits a signal the vehicle when it is inserted into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and for starting the engine. This key is more secure than a traditional flat metal keys because the transponder chip blocks a car from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was developed to prevent theft of cars since it is almost impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the proper equipment.

In addition, many cars also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting when the key is not transponder-compatible. However, car key fob replacement thieves have also devised methods to gain access and steal cars with transponder keys.

A locksmith is usually able to help you replace the damaged or lost transponder key. They'll need the information about your specific vehicle, such as the VIN number along with the year, model and year. Then, they'll cut a new one or program the current one to the car's system. This is a more expensive procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys.

Some automotive stores like AutoZone or Walmart can cut and copy transponder keys but may not be capable of reprogramming chips in the key. It is best to call an experienced and reputable locksmith company if you want to be sure that a professional is able to handle the task.

It was relatively easy to create duplicate keys for a car and hot-wire a vehicle before the advent of this latest technology. This method of stealing cars was very widespread and allowed criminals to gain entry and drive away with stolen vehicles. The advent of the transponder key has greatly reduced this activity, but it is not completely eliminated.

You can call an expert to do this for you in the event that you require a replacement transponder key, or if you lost yours. The cost will be higher than a conventional key, but it is a much safer and better method to ensure that your vehicle cannot be started by someone else.

Keyless Entry System

Car key fobs are becoming a standard feature in vehicles, as more and people are seeking convenience, safety, and security. These devices can open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, or even start the engine without a physical key. They can also take quite a beating from being used in a variety of ways, and they're more likely to be lost or stolen than the metal keys. This means they're costly to replace, and you could need fob programming to pair the new key with your vehicle.

A basic key fob costs about ten dollars to get cut at the hardware store, however the latest smart keys aren't cheap if you need to buy them and have them programmed. Based on your car's make and model you could expect to pay between $200-$500 for a replacement fob plus the cost of having it cut and programmed to your vehicle.

Certain advanced car key systems allow you to use your smartphone as a key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle remotely using the app on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, activate your parking break, and perform other tasks depending on the distance you're to the vehicle. 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.

Certain of these systems may be expensive, but are more secure than the standard car key. They monitor your location to stop you from locking or starting the car if you are far away. Certain systems can help you locate your car in a garage, and others can notify you when you open or close the doors.

These kinds of systems could also be beneficial for businesses, like property managers who manage vacation rentals or office spaces. These systems allow them to monitor access rights of guests as well as cleaning staff and maintenance staff, as well as ensuring that only those who have the proper permissions can go into and out of the space.

Dealership

Some people feel they must go to the dealer if their keys are missing. They'll need to provide proof of ownership, and occasionally the key has to be ordered from the manufacturer which can take a few days. A dealer can usually do the job quicker than a locksmith and could even cost less.

The key fob may still need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done either at the dealership or by consulting your owner's guide. It involves opening and shutting doors, and turning on and off lights and other electronic devices. It may also require pressing a number of buttons that act as a code. This is often handled by the drivers, but it's best to let an expert take care of it.

The cost is also affected by the year, model and year of vehicle. Modern cars come with high-tech transponder chips that will require pairing with the vehicle by a locksmith or a dealer, and the process can be more expensive.

A dealer that sells a certain model will be more likely to be able to change keys for that model. Some of the bigger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler, have many models and are familiar with the keys.

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

If you have a spare key it is recommended to get it copied by an expert instead of obtaining an exchange from the dealer. That way you can avoid having to pay the higher after-hours or weekend rates. Then, if you lose your keys, you can rest assured that the cloned key will function.