Car Keys Replacement Cost

A few years ago, losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could take your spare to an a key cutter and buy an additional one for $10 or less.

Nevertheless the process has gotten more complex and expensive. Learn more about the various kinds of keys for cars and how they will cost you to replace.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob is both a remote and key in one. It's a small, plastic piece equipped with a button which you can press to unlock doors or hatchbacks, open the trunk, roll down windows and, possibly, even start the vehicle. The key fob comes with an electronic chip built in that communicates with your car's onboard systems to regulate functions like the starter.

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

If your car was built in the past five years, chances are that you'll need to visit the dealer for a replacement fob, since many modern cars require special equipment to program and Car Keys Replacement code new keys. A locksmith or a key shop can usually do this for less, though.

The kind of fob you own will also affect the price. Older vehicles use mechanical keys, whereas modern models usually come with transponder keys or smart keys. Both can have a wide range of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle instantly to rolling codes that are updated regularly to prevent thieves from taking and using the data from your key fob.

It's possible to purchase an aftermarket key fob online for less than what you'd pay at the dealership, but these may not be compatible with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips that block their key fobs from interacting with third-party devices. Some dealerships can program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in, but there's a good chance it won't continue to function.

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 before heading to the dealership or Car Keys Replacement hiring a locksmith to do it. You can also check the warranty of your vehicle, the auto-insurance policy and roadside assistance coverage to see if these cover the costs of a replacement fob for your key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are found in the majority of modern cars. They have embedded chips in the head that transmits an information to the vehicle after it is put into 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 keys because the transponder chip prevents a car from starting without the proper signal. This technology was created to stop car keys lost replacement theft since it is nearly impossible to duplicate keys without the appropriate equipment.

In addition, many cars also have immobilizer systems that prevent them from starting when the key is not transponder-compatible. Car thieves have devised methods to steal vehicles with transponder key systems.

A locksmith can assist you repair your transponder key in the event that it's damaged or lost. They'll need the details about your specific vehicle, such as the VIN number along with the year, model and year. They will then cut a new key replacement for car or program the one they have to your car's security system. This is a costlier procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys.

Some stores for automotive like AutoZone or Walmart can cut and duplicate transponder keys however, they may not be capable of reprogramming chips in the key. It is recommended to contact an experienced and reputable locksmith firm to ensure that a professional will be capable of handling the job.

It was quite simple to create a duplicate key for a car and then wire a vehicle 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 this crime, but it isn't entirely eliminated it completely.

If you need a replacement transponder key, or have lost yours, the best choice is to contact a professional and have them do it for you. It's more expensive than a standard key but it's a much safer and more reliable option to ensure that anyone else is unable to start your car.

Keyless Entry System

Car key fobs are becoming an everyday feature in cars, as more and more people seek convenience, safety and security. These transmitters can open doors, trigger the panic alarm, open the trunk, or even start the engine without an actual key. They can also be subject to some abuse from being tossed around, and they're more likely to get lost or stolen than the metal keys. They're also expensive to replace, and you could require fob programming to connect your new one with your vehicle.

A basic key fob will cost about ten dollars to get cut at a hardware store, but the most recent smart keys aren't cheap if you're looking to purchase the keys and have them programmed. Depending on your vehicle make and model you can expect to shell out between $200 to $500 for a replacement fob, in addition to the cost of having it cut and programmed to your car.

There are also more advanced car key systems that let you use your smartphone as a key. You can lock or unlock your car via the app on your phone. You can also turn off and on your lights, activate your parking break, as well as perform other things based on the distance you're to your car. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas, or parents who are worried about your kids leaving the car unattended.

Certain of these systems are expensive however, they're more secure than a regular car key as they locate you and prevent you from accidentally locking the car or turning the engine on when you're far away. Certain systems will help you locate your vehicle in a garage, while others can alert you if you open or close the doors.

These kinds of systems could also be beneficial for businesses, such as property managers who oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems can allow them to monitor access rights of guests as well as cleaning staff and maintenance personnel, while making sure that only those with the proper permissions can go in and out of the space.

Dealership

Some people believe they need to visit a dealer when their keys are missing. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership and may purchase the key from the manufacturer. This could take several days. A dealer is usually able to complete the job more quickly than a locksmith and may even charge less.

The key fob could require programming for your car. This can be done at the dealership or by looking up the owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, as well as switching off and on lights and other electronic devices. It could also involve pressing a series of buttons which acts as an electronic code. It is usually done by the driver, but it is better to have a technician handle it.

The year, make and model of the car will affect the cost as well. The cost of the service can be affected by the year, model and model of the vehicle.

A dealer who sells a particular model will be more likely to have the knowledge to change keys for that model. Some of the bigger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a huge variety of models and are more acquainted with the keys for the models they sell.

Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have shut down or that are old enough that they no longer produce keys are included. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are some of the older companies that have stopped producing keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these keys have to be reprogrammed and can be more difficult and expensive than replacing the key itself.

It is best to have your spare key cloned by a specialist rather than buying an entirely new one from a dealer. This way, you avoid having to pay the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. If you lose your keys you can be assured that the cloned one will work.