Car Keys Replacement Cost

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

Today, however the process can be more complicated and expensive. Learn about the different types and costs of car keys.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob is both an remote as well as a key in one. It's a small, plastic piece equipped with a button which can be pushed to open doors and hatchbacks, keys open the trunk, open windows, roll them down, and possibly even start your car. The key fob has an electronic chip inside that communicates with the car's onboard system to control functions like the starter.

A basic key fob is typically made of plastic and utilizes a standard lock-and-key mechanism, like the type you'd find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob could cost anything from $50 to $100, but the actual cost comes when you have to replace a damaged or lost one.

If your car was made within the last five years, the 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 a key shop will usually be able to do this for less, however.

The cost of the fob you purchase can depend on the type of fob you have. Older vehicles have mechanical key fobs, while latest models use transponder keys. Key fobs of both kinds are able to be fitted with a variety of functions. They may include keyless entry which locks and unlocks your car automatically, or rolling codes that change regularly to prevent thieves from stealing the information on your key fob.

Key fobs that are available online could be less expensive than the ones you can buy at the dealer, but they may not work with your vehicle. Some manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips inside their key fobs that prevent them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealerships can program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in but there's a good possibility that it won't work.

You can get information on programming your key fob by visiting the website of the manufacturer or the owner's guide. You should try to do this yourself before hiring for a locksmith or going to the dealer. You can also check your vehicle's warranty, roadside assistance and auto-insurance coverage to determine if they cover the costs of a replacement car keys near me fob for your key.

Transponder Key

Most newer cars use a type of key called transponder keys. They have embedded chips in the head which transmits an electronic message to the vehicle once it is inserted 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 since transponder chips stop the car from starting if it does not receive an appropriate signal from the key. This technology was developed to prevent theft of cars because it is virtually impossible to duplicate keys without the appropriate equipment.

Additionally, many cars also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting when the key is not transponder-compatible. Car thieves have developed methods of stealing cars with transponder key systems.

A locksmith can usually assist you in replacing the damaged or lost transponder key. They'll require the details of your particular vehicle, such as the VIN number, model and year. Then they will either cut a new key or program the one they have to your car's system. This is a costlier process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.

Some auto stores such as AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and duplicate transponder keys but they aren't capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. You should contact a reputable and experienced locksmith company if you want to ensure that a professional will be capable of handling the job.

Before the advent of technology like this it was quite easy to make duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a vehicle. This technique was used to steal cars and it permitted criminals to steal stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced this crime, but not entirely eliminated it.

You can contact an expert to handle this for you in the event that you require an alternative transponder key or if you lost yours. The cost will be more than a conventional key, however it's a safer and better method to ensure that your vehicle can't be started by anyone else.

Keyless Entry System

As more and more people demand convenience, security and safety, car key fobs have become a common feature. These tiny devices can unlock doors, activate the alarm for panic, open the trunk, and even start your engine without having to have a physical key in your hand. However, they also take some abuse from being tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen than metal keys. They're also expensive to replace, and you may require fob programming to connect your new one with your vehicle.

The cost of cutting a basic key fob at a hardware store is about ten dollars. However, the latest smart keys can be costly if you must purchase them as well as programme them. Depending on your vehicle make and model, you can expect to pay anywhere from $200-$500 for a replacement fob in addition to the cost of having it cut and programmed to your car.

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

Some of these systems can be costly, but they are more secure than a regular car key. They monitor your location to stop you from locking or opening the car if you're far away. Certain systems can assist you in finding 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, like property managers that oversee office space or vacation rentals. These systems are able to monitor access rights of guests cleaners, guests, and maintenance staff, as well as ensuring that only those who have the appropriate permissions are allowed to get in and out of the space.

Dealership

Some people believe that they should visit a dealer when their keys are missing. They'll have to show proof of ownership, and occasionally the key must be ordered from the manufacturer, which could take several days. A dealer will usually complete the job more quickly than a locksmith and may even charge less.

The key fob could require to be programmed for your car. This can be done through the dealer or reading the owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors and turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off. It could even require pressing a set of buttons that acts like an electronic code. This is usually handled by the drivers, however it is always best to let an expert manage it.

The year the car was manufactured, keys its model and make of the vehicle will have an impact on the price, too. The cost of the service could also be affected by the year, make and model of the vehicle.

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

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

In general, if you have a spare key, it is best to duplicate it at a specialist rather than getting a replacement from the dealer. So, you don't have to worry about paying the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. If you lose your keys you are assured that the duplicate will work.