Car Keys Replacement Cost

Not long ago, misplacing your keys to your car wasn't a big deal. You could bring your spare to key cutters and purchase a new one for $10 or less.

Nowadays, however, the process is more complicated and expensive. Learn about the different types and costs of car keys.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob can be described as an remote as well as a key in one. It's tiny, plastic device with a button that can be pushed to open doors or hatchbacks, open the trunk, lower windows and maybe even start the vehicle. The key fob also comes with a built-in electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard system to control functions such as the starter.

Key fobs for basic use are typically constructed from plastic that is standard, and utilize a standard lock and key mechanism. They are the same as those found on old Pontiacs or Saturns. A basic key fob costs anywhere between $50 to $100, however you'll pay more if need to replace one that's been damaged or lost.

You'll probably need to visit a dealer if your car is more than five years old. A lot of newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. Locksmiths or key shops typically can do this for less however.

The kind of fob you own can affect the price. Older vehicles use mechanical key fobs, whereas the latest models usually have transponder keys or smart keys. Both come with a variety of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically to rolling codes that change regularly to prevent thieves from taking and stealing your car's key fob data.

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 in their key fobs that prevent them from working with third-party devices. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob if it's purchased, but it's highly unlikely that it will work.

You can find out more about programming your key fob by searching the manufacturer's site or the owner's manual. It is recommended to try this yourself first before paying a locksmith or going to the dealer. You may also want to check your vehicle's warranty and auto-insurance policy to determine whether they will cover the cost of a new key fob.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are used in the majority of modern cars. They have an embedded chip in the key's head that sends a signal to the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. The signal is used to unlock the car and start the engine. This type of key is more secure than traditional flat metal keys because transponder chips prevent the car replacement key cost from starting if it doesn't receive an appropriate signal from the key. This technology was developed to stop car theft since it is almost impossible to duplicate keys without the appropriate equipment.

Additionally, many cars also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting if a non-transponder key is used. Car thieves have devised methods to steal vehicles with transponder key systems.

A locksmith is usually able to assist you in replacing the damaged or lost transponder key. They'll need details of your vehicle including the VIN number and model. They will then cut a new one or program the one they have to your car's security system. This is a costlier process than having a dealership 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 the chip in the key. You should contact an experienced and reliable locksmith service to be sure that a professional will be capable of handling the job.

It was relatively easy to make duplicate keys for a car and then hot-wire a vehicle before the advent of this new technology. This method was used to steal cars, and it allowed criminals drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have drastically reduced the risk of this crime, but it isn't entirely eliminated it completely.

If you need a new transponder key, or have lost yours, the best option is to call an expert and have them make it for you. The cost will be higher than a conventional key, however it's a safer and better way to ensure that your car cannot be started by someone else.

Keyless Entry System

As more and more people demand security, convenience, and safety key fobs for cars have become a common feature. These transmitters can open doors, trigger the panic alarm, open the trunk, or even start the engine without having an actual key. However, they also endure some abuse from being tossed around, and are more likely to be lost or stolen than metal keys. This means they're costly to replace, and you might need fob programming to pair your new one with your vehicle.

A basic key fob costs about ten dollars to get cut at an hardware store, but the latest smart keys aren't cheap when you're looking to purchase them and have them programmed. Depending on your vehicle make and model you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $500 for a replacement fob, in addition to the cost of cutting it and programming it to your vehicle.

There are additionally more advanced car key systems that allow you to use your smartphone as a key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle by using an app on your smartphone. You can also turn on and off your lights, turn on your parking break, and perform other tasks depending on how close you are to the vehicle. These are great for people who live in urban areas, or parents who are concerned about your children leaving the car unattended.

Certain of these systems may be expensive, but they are more secure than a regular car key. They keep track of your location to prevent you from accidentally locking or starting the car if you are far from. Certain systems will help you locate your car in a garage and others can notify you when you open or close the doors.

These systems are also beneficial for companies such as property managers who oversee offices 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 allowed in and out.

Dealership

Some people believe they need to go to the dealer if their keys are missing. The dealer will ask for proof of ownership and may request the key from the manufacturer. This can take several days. However, a dealer can typically complete the task for you much faster than locksmiths, and may have cheaper prices, too.

The key fob may still need to be programmed for your vehicle. This can be done either at the dealership or by looking up the owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, as well as turning on and off lights and other electronic devices. It could even require pressing a series of buttons which act as an electronic code. Most of the time, this is done by the driver, but it is better to have a technician handle it.

The cost can also be affected by the year, make and type of vehicle. Modern cars feature high-tech transponder chips that will need to be paired with the car by a locksmith dealer and the process could be more costly.

A dealer who sells a specific model will be more likely to know how to change keys for the model. Some of the bigger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, car keys replacement Chrysler and Nissan, have a large variety of models and are more familiar with the keys that are used for the specific models.

Certain brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have closed or that are old enough that they no longer make keys are included. Scion, Car Keys Replacement Pontiac and Hummer are among the more established companies that no longer produce keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. These keys are usually reprogrammed. This is more expensive and time-consuming than replacing the key.

If you have a spare key, it is best to duplicate it at a specialist rather than getting an exchange from the dealer. That way you can avoid paying the more expensive after-hours or weekend rates. If you do lose your keys you can rest easy knowing that the key cloned will function.