Car Keys Replacement Cost

A few years ago, losing your keys to your car wasn't a big deal. You could take your spare keys to a key cutter and get a new one for $10 or less.

Nevertheless, the process has become more complex and expensive. Find out more about the different types of car keys and how they'll cost you to replace.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob is both an remote as well as a key in one. It's a tiny plastic device that houses a button or buttons that you push to unlock the doors and trunk, open the hatchback, roll down the windows, and perhaps start the car. The key fob also comes with a built-in electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard system to manage functions like the starter.

Basic key fobs are made of standard plastic and are fitted with a standard lock and key mechanism. They are identical to those that were used on the old Pontiacs and Saturns. A basic key fob could cost anywhere from $50 to $100, but the true cost comes when you have to replace a damaged or lost one.

You'll likely have to visit the dealer if the car is newer than five years. Many newer cars require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or a key shop can usually do this for less however.

The type of fob you have can affect the price. Older vehicles have mechanical keys, while the latest models use transponder keys. Key fobs of both types can be equipped with a range of features. They may include keyless entry, which locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically or rolling codes that are updated regularly to prevent thieves from stealing the data on your key fob.

It's possible to buy an aftermarket key fob online for less than what you'd pay at a dealership, but these may not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips inside their key fobs, which prevent them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealers will program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in but there's a good chance it won't continue to work.

You can find information about programming your key fob by visiting the site of the manufacturer or in the owner's guide. You should try to do this yourself prior to paying for a locksmith or going to the dealer. You could also check your car's warranty, roadside assistance and auto-insurance policy to see if they cover the costs of a replacement car keys price key fob.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are utilized in the majority of modern cars. The keys contain an embedded chip in the head which transmits an information to the vehicle once it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and starting the engine. This key is more secure than a conventional flat metal key due to the transponder chip blocks the car from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was developed to stop car theft 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 keys that are not transponder compatible are used. However, car thieves have also devised ways 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 will need the information about your vehicle including the VIN number and model. They will then either cut a new key or program the existing one to your car's system. This is a more costly procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys.

Some stores for automotive like AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and copy transponder keys, but may not be capable of reprogramming chips in the key. If you want to be sure that a professional can handle the job, contact an experienced and trusted locksmith service.

It was quite simple to create duplicate keys for a car and then hot-wire a vehicle before the advent of this modern technology. This method of stealing vehicles was frequent and allowed criminals to gain entry and drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced this crime, but it isn't entirely eliminated it.

If you require a new transponder key, or have lost yours, the best choice is to call a professional and have them make it for you. The cost will be more than a conventional key, but it is a much safer and better method to ensure that your vehicle is not able to be started by anyone else.

Keyless Entry System

As increasing numbers of people seek security, convenience, and safety keys for their cars have become a standard feature. These tiny devices can unlock doors, activate the alarm that sounds a panic or open the trunk and even start your car without having the physical key in your hand. However, they also take quite a beating from being used in a variety of ways, and they're more likely to be lost or stolen than metal keys. This means they're costly to replace, and you may need fob programming to pair your new one with your vehicle.

A standard key fob can cost about ten dollars to get cut at the hardware store, however the most recent smart keys aren't cheap when you want to purchase them and then have them programmed. Based on your car's model and make, you can expect to shell out between $200 to $500 to replace a fob in addition to the cost of cutting it and programming it to your car.

There are other more advanced car keys systems that allow you to make use of your smartphone as an actual key. You can lock or unlock your car by using an app on your smartphone. 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 the car. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas, or even parents who are concerned about your children leaving the car unattended.

Certain of these systems may be expensive, but are more secure than a standard car key. They keep track of your location to prevent you from accidentally locking or starting the car when you are far away. Certain of these systems can assist you in finding your car in a garage, and others will notify you when you shut or open the doors.

These systems are also useful for businesses like property managers who oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems permit them to check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. They can also make sure that only those who have permissions are allowed in and out.

Dealership

Some people might feel that they must visit a dealership if their keys are lost. They will need to show proof of ownership, and sometimes keys must be ordered from the manufacturer, which can take a few days. However, a dealer can generally complete the task for you faster than locksmiths, and may offer lower prices as well.

It is likely that the key fob will still require programming to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership, or by consulting your owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, as well as switching off and on lights and other electronic devices. It can even involve pressing a combination of buttons that acts like the code. This is often handled by the driver, but it's always better to let a technician handle it.

The cost is also affected by the year, make and type of vehicle. Modern cars come with sophisticated transponder chips which will require pairing with the car by a locksmith dealer, and the process can be more costly.

A dealer who sells specific brand of car is more likely to know how to replace the keys for that vehicle. Some of the biggest manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have several models and are well-versed in keys.

Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have closed or that are old enough that they no longer produce keys are listed. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are a few of the more established companies that no longer produce keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. 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 buying a new one from the dealer. You can avoid paying the higher rates for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys you can be assured that the cloned one will work.