Car Keys Replacement Cost

It wasn't long ago that losing keys to cars was not a major issue. You could bring your spare key to a key cutting shop for the replacement key for $10 or less.

Nevertheless the process has become more complex and expensive. Read on to learn about the various types of keys for cars and what they can cost you to replace them.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob is both an remote as well as a key in one. It's a small plastic device that contains buttons or buttons that you push to unlock the doors, open the trunk or hatchback, open the windows and maybe even start the car. The key fob comes with an electronic chip built in that communicates with the car's onboard systems for controlling functions such as the starter.

Basic key fobs are usually made of standard plastic and are fitted with a standard lock and key mechanism. They're similar to the ones found on old Pontiacs or Saturns. A basic key fob costs anywhere between $50 to $100, however you'll pay more if you require a replacement for one that's damaged or lost.

If your car was manufactured within the last five years, chances are that you'll need to visit the dealership to get a replacement fob as many newer cars require special equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith or key shop will typically be in a position to provide this service at a lower cost.

The cost of the fob you purchase can also depend on the type you own. Older cars use mechanical keys, while the latest models use transponder keys. Key fobs of both types are able to be fitted with a variety of features. They may include keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically or rolling codes that are changed frequently to keep thieves from stealing the information on your key fob.

Online key fobs may be cheaper than those you can purchase from a dealer, but they may not be compatible with your car. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that prevent their key fobs from interacting with third-party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket key fob if it's brought in, but it's very likely that it won't work.

Check your owner's manual or go to the manufacturer's site for information on programming your specific model's key fob. It's worth trying to do this yourself prior to going to the dealership or paying a locksmith to do it. You could also check your car's warranty, roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance policy to see if they will cover the cost of a replacement key fob.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are utilized in the majority of newer automobiles. They have embedded chips in the head that transmits an information to the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. The signal is used to unlock the car and start the engine. This key is more secure than the conventional flat metal key due to the transponder chip stops the car from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was developed to prevent theft of cars since it is nearly impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the appropriate equipment.

Many vehicles are also equipped with immobilizers which prevent them from starting when they are operated with keys that do not have a transponder. However, car criminals have also come up with methods to steal and break into cars that are equipped with transponder keys.

A locksmith can help repair your transponder key in the event that it's damaged or lost. They'll require the details about your specific vehicle, such as the VIN number along with the year, model and year. They will then cut a new one or program the current one to your car's security system. This is a more costly process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.

Some automotive stores, like AutoZone and Walmart, are also capable of cutting and copying the transponder key, however they might not be in a position to reprogram the chip in the key. If you want to be sure that a professional is able to complete the task, you should contact an experienced and trusted locksmith business.

Before the advent of technology like this it was quite simple to create duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a vehicle. This method of stealing cars was frequent and allowed criminals to enter and drive off with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced the risk of this crime, but not entirely eliminated it.

If you require a new transponder key or you have lost yours, the best choice is to contact an expert and let them create it for you. It's more expensive than a standard key, however it's a safer and more reliable option to ensure that someone else cannot start your car.

Keyless Entry System

Car key fobs are now a standard feature of vehicles, as more and more people want convenience, safety, and security. These tiny devices can unlock doors, set off the alarm that sounds a panic, open the trunk, and even start your car without having to carry a physical key in your hand. They can also endure a lot of abuse from being tossed around, and they are more likely to be lost or stolen than the metal keys. They're also expensive to replace, and you could require fob programming to connect the new key with your vehicle.

A basic key fob will cost ten or so dollars to get cut at a hardware store, but the latest smart keys aren't cheap if you want to purchase them and then have them programmed. It is possible to spend between $200 and $500 on an alternative key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed for your car.

Certain advanced car key systems let you make use of your smartphone as a key. With the application on your smartphone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car and you can also switch your lights on and off, as well as activate your parking brake, and perform other things based on the proximity of your car. These apps are ideal for those who live in urban areas, or parents who are concerned about your children leaving the car unattended.

Some of these systems can be expensive, but they're also more secure than a standard car key since they track your location and prevent you from accidentally locking the car or turning off the engine in case you're not close enough. They can also help you find your car in parking garages, and some can warn you if the doors have been opened or closed.

These systems are also useful for companies such as property managers who manage office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems let them control access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those who have permissions are allowed in and out.

Dealership

Some people may feel that they need to visit a dealership if their keys are lost. The dealer will ask for proof of ownership and may order the key from the manufacturer. This could take a few days. A dealer will usually complete the job faster than a locksmith and could even cost less.

The key fob could require to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done either through the dealer or consulting your owner's guide. It involves closing and opening doors, and turning off lights and other electronics on and off. It may also require pressing a series of buttons that function as codes. Most of the time, this is performed by the driver but it is always better to have a technician handle it.

The cost can also be affected by the year, model and year of vehicle. Modern cars come with sophisticated transponder chips which will need to be paired with the car by a locksmith or a dealer and the process could be more expensive.

A dealer who sells a particular brand of car is more likely to know how to replace keys for the vehicle. Some of the larger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have several models and are familiar with keys.

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

It is best to have your spare key cloned by a specialist rather than purchasing another one from the dealer. You can avoid paying the more expensive rates for after-hours or weekend services. If you do lose your keys replacement for cars you can rest assured that the key cloned will work.