Car Keys Replacement Cost

In the past, losing your car keys was not a big deal. You could take your spare to a key cutter and get a new one for $10 or less.

However the process has gotten more complex and expensive. Learn about the different types and costs for car keys.

Basic Key Fob

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

Basic key fobs are constructed from plastic that is standard, and use a regular lock and key mechanism. They're identical to those that were used on the old Pontiacs and Saturns. A basic key fob costs between $50-$100, but you'll pay more if require a replacement for one that has been lost or damaged.

If your car was built within the past five years, chances that you'll have to go to the dealership for a replacement fob, as many newer vehicles require special equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith or key shop will typically be capable of doing this for less.

The cost of the fob you purchase can depend on the type you have. Older cars have mechanical key fobs, while modern models have transponder keys. Both types of key fobs can be equipped with a range of features. They can include keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically or rolling codes that change frequently to keep thieves from intercepting the data on your key fob.

You may be able to buy an aftermarket key fob online at a lower cost than what you'd pay at a dealership however, cheapest Car key Replacement they may not work with your car. Some manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from interacting with third party devices. Some dealerships will program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in but there's a good chance it won't continue to work.

Check your owner's manual or visit the manufacturer's website to find information about programming your particular model's key fob. You should try to do this yourself first before paying an expert locksmith or visiting the dealer. You can also check your vehicle's warranty and auto-insurance policy to determine if they cover the cost of a brand new key fob.

Transponder Key

Most newer cars use keys of a different type, known as transponder keys. These keys have an embedded chip in the head that sends an information to the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and begin the engine. This key type is more secure than conventional flat metal keys because transponder chips prevent the car from starting if it fails to receive an appropriate signal from the key. This technology was created to prevent theft of cars since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the right equipment.

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

A locksmith will usually be able to assist you in replacing a lost or damaged transponder key. They'll require the details about your specific vehicle, such as the VIN number, model and year. Then they will cut a new key or program the current one to the car's system. This process is a bit more expensive than simply cutting a key from a dealership and program a replacement key.

Some automotive stores like AutoZone or Walmart can cut and copy transponder keys however, they may not be capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. You should contact a reputable and experienced locksmith company if you want to ensure that a professional is competent to complete the task.

It was fairly easy to make duplicate keys for a car and then hot-wire a cheapest car key replacement prior to the advent of this modern technology. This method of stealing cars was very widespread and allowed criminals to gain entry and drive off with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have drastically reduced the risk of this crime, but they haven't completely eliminated it completely.

You can get a professional to do this for you in the event that you require an extra transponder key or if you've lost one. It will cost more 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

As more and more people demand convenience, security and safety, car key fobs have become a standard feature. These tiny devices can unlock doors, set off the alarm for panic or open the trunk and even start your engine without needing to carry a physical key in your hands. However, they also take a lot of abuse from being used in a variety of ways, and they're more likely to get lost or stolen than metal keys. It's costly to replace keys, and you might need to program your new key to pair it 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 when you're looking to purchase them and then have them programmed. It is possible to spend between $200 and $500 on the replacement key fob. This includes the cost to have it cut and programmed for your car.

There are additionally more advanced car key systems that allow you to use your smartphone as an actual key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle via the app on your phone. You can also turn on and off your lights, activate your parking break, as well as perform other tasks based on how close you are to your car. These are perfect for those who live in urban areas or if you have kids and are worried about children leaving the car unattended.

Some of these systems can be expensive however they're also more secure than a regular car key as they locate you and prevent you from locking the car or turning off the engine 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 types of systems can also be useful for companies, such as property managers who manage vacation rentals or office spaces. These systems permit them to check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. They can also make sure that only those with permissions are allowed to enter and exit the premises.

Dealership

Some people might feel that they have to go to the dealership when their keys disappear. They will need to show proof of ownership, and occasionally the key must be purchased from the manufacturer, which could take several days. A dealer is usually able to complete the job faster than a locksmith and may even cost less.

The key fob might require to be programmed for 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 could even require pressing a number of buttons that act as codes. Most of the time, this is done by the driver, but it is always better to have a technician perform it.

The year the car was manufactured, its model and Cheapest car key replacement make of the vehicle will affect the cost as well. Modern cars come with sophisticated transponder chips which will require pairing with the vehicle by a locksmith dealer and the process could be more expensive.

A dealer who sells a particular brand of car key replacement online will be more likely to know how to change keys for that model. Some of the larger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have a variety of models and are well-versed in keys.

Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have closed or are old enough that they no longer manufacture keys are listed. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are a few of the companies that are older and do not produce keys anymore. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. These keys are usually reprogrammed. This can be more expensive and time-consuming than replacing the key.

In general, if you have a spare key it is usually best to have it cloned at a specialist rather than getting a replacement from the dealer. That way you can avoid paying the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. If you lose your keys, you can be assured that the cloned one will function.