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Car Keys Replacement Cost

It wasn't long ago that losing car keys was not a major issue. You could bring your spare key to a key cutter and get an alternative that cost $10 or less.

Nowadays, however, the process is more complicated and costly. Learn more about the different types of keys for cars and how they'll cost you to replace.

Basic Key Fob

Key fobs are an electronic remote control and an actual key in one. It's a tiny plastic device that houses buttons or buttons that you can push to unlock the doors and trunk, open the hatchback, roll down the windows and maybe even start the car. The key fob has an embedded electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard computer system to control functions like the starter.

Basic key fobs are made from standard plastic, and are fitted with a standard lock and key mechanism. These are the same as those that were used on the old Pontiacs and Saturns. A basic key fob can cost between $50 and $100, but you'll be charged more if you need to replace one that has been lost or damaged.

If your car was manufactured in the last five years, the chances are you'll need to visit the dealer for a replacement fob, as many newer cars require special equipment to program and code new keys. Locksmiths or key shops typically can do this for less, though.

The type of fob you have can also impact the cost. Older vehicles have mechanical key fobs, while latest models use transponder keys. Both types of keys come with a variety of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle instantly to rolling codes that are updated regularly to deter thieves from intercepting and stealing the data from your key fob.

Online key fobs may be less expensive than the ones you can get from the dealer, but they may not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, such as 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 a second-hand key fob, if it's brought in, however it's likely that it won't work.

Read the owner's manual for your model or visit the manufacturer's website for more information on programming your specific model's key fob. You should try to do this yourself prior to paying a locksmith or going to the dealer. You can also look at your vehicle's warranty, roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance coverage to see if these will cover the cost of a replacement car key cost fob for your key.

Transponder Key

Most newer cars use keys that are known as a transponder key. They have embedded chips in the head that sends an electronic message to the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and for starting the engine. This key is more secure than the traditional flat metal keys because the transponder chip blocks cars from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was created to prevent theft of cars since it is nearly impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the proper equipment.

Additionally, many vehicles also have immobilizer systems that prevent them from starting when keys that are not transponder compatible are used. However, car thieves have also developed methods to steal and break into vehicles that have transponder keys.

A locksmith can assist you replace your transponder key if it's damaged or lost. They will need the details about your car, such as the VIN number and model. They will then either program your existing key to the car's computer system or cut a new one. This is a more costly procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys.

Some stores for automotive, such as AutoZone and Walmart, are also capable of cutting and re-copying the transponder keys, however they may not be in a position to reprogram the chip in the key. If you want to be sure that a professional will be able to handle the job, seek out a reputable and experienced locksmith service.

It was quite simple to create duplicate keys for a car and then hot-wire a car prior to the advent of this latest technology. This method was used to steal cars, and it allowed criminals to drive away with stolen vehicles. The introduction of transponder keys has drastically reduced this crime however, it's not completely eliminated.

You can call a professional to do this for you if you need a replacement transponder key, or if you lost yours. It's more expensive than a standard one, but it's a safer and more secure option to ensure that someone else will not be able to start your car.

Keyless Entry System

Car key fobs are becoming a standard feature of vehicles as more people want convenience, safety, and security. They can open doors, trigger the panic alarm, open the trunk, and even start the engine without having the physical key. They can also endure quite a beating from being used in a variety of ways, and they're more likely to be lost or stolen than metal keys. It's expensive to replace keys, and you might need to program your new fob to pair it with your vehicle.

A basic key fob will cost ten or so dollars to cut at the hardware store, however the latest smart keys can be expensive if you want to purchase them and then have them programmed. You can expect 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 a key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle by using an app on your phone. You can also turn off and on your lights, turn on your parking break, and do other things based on how close you are to the car. These are great for people who reside in urban areas, or even parents who are worried about your kids leaving the car unsupervised.

Some of these systems are expensive however, they're more secure than a regular car key as they monitor your location and stop you from accidentally locking your car or turning off the engine in case you're not close enough. Certain systems will help you locate your car in a garage, and others can notify you when you shut or open the doors.

These types of systems can also be useful for businesses, like property managers that 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 with permissions are allowed in and out.

Dealership

Some people may feel that they must visit a dealership if their keys are lost. The dealer will ask for proof of ownership and request the key from the manufacturer. This could take several days. But a dealer will typically complete the task for you quicker than locksmiths, and may offer lower prices too.

It is likely that the key fob will still require programming to your vehicle. This can be done either at the dealer or by looking up the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, and turning on and off lights and other electronic devices. It may even require pressing a series of buttons which act as a code. This is usually handled by the drivers, but it's always better to let a technician manage it.

The cost can also be dependent on the year, make and model of vehicle. Newer cars have advanced transponder chips that require pairing with the vehicle by a locksmith dealer and the process could be more costly.

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

Certain brands are difficult to work with. This includes a few of the older companies that have closed, or are old enough to have keys that are no longer being produced. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn, and Eagle. Typically, these kinds of keys require reprogramming, which can be more complicated and costly than replacing the key itself.

In general, if you have a spare key, it is usually best to get it copied by an expert instead of obtaining an exchange from the dealer. That way you can avoid paying the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. If you lose your keys you are assured that the cloned key will work.