Car Keys Replacement Cost

In the past, losing your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could take your spare keys to an a key cutter and buy a new one for $10 or less.

Today, however the process is more complicated and costly. Learn about the various types and costs of car keys.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob is a remote control and an actual key in one. It's a small, plastic device that houses a button or buttons that you push to unlock the doors, open the trunk or hatchback, lower the windows, and possibly start the car. The key fob also has an embedded electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard system to control functions like the starter.

Basic key fobs are constructed from plastic that is standard, and are fitted with a standard lock and Car Keys Replacement Cost key mechanism. They are the same as those found on old Pontiacs as well as Saturns. A basic key fob could cost anything from $50 to $100, but the actual cost is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one.

You'll likely need to visit the dealer if the car is newer than five years. Most newer vehicles require special equipment to code and programme new keys. A locksmith or a key shop can usually do this for less though.

The kind of fob you own can affect the price. Older cars use mechanical keys, while the modern models have transponder keys. Key fobs of both kinds can be equipped with a variety of functions. They can include keyless entry which locks and unlocks your car automatically or rolling codes that are changed frequently to stop thieves from intercepting the data on the key fob.

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

You can find out more about programming your key fob by visiting the website of the manufacturer or the owner's manual. It's worth trying to do this yourself prior to going to the dealership or paying a locksmith to do it. You can also check the warranty of your vehicle, the roadside assistance and auto-insurance policy to see if they will cover the cost of a replacement fob for your key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are found in the majority of newer automobiles. These keys contain a chip embedded in the head of the key that transmits a signal to the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. The signal is used to unlock the car and start 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 kinds of keys without the right equipment.

Many vehicles are also equipped with immobilizers that stop them from starting if they are used with keys that do not have a transponder. Car thieves have come up with ways to steal cars equipped with transponder key systems.

A locksmith can usually help you replace the damaged or lost transponder key. They will need the details about your car including the VIN number and car Keys replacement Cost model. Then they will either cut a new key or program the one they have to your car's security system. This is a more expensive procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement car keys cost keys.

Some auto stores, such as AutoZone and Walmart can also be capable of cutting and re-copying the transponder key, however they might not be able to reprogram the chip inside the key. It is recommended to contact an experienced and reputable locksmith firm to be sure that a professional will be able to handle the task.

It was relatively easy to create duplicate keys for a car and hot-wire a vehicle before the advent of this new technology. This technique was used to steal cars, and it allowed criminals to drive away with stolen vehicles. The introduction of the transponder key has greatly reduced the likelihood of this happening however, it's not completely eliminated.

If you require a new transponder keys or you've lost yours, the best choice is to contact an expert and let them create it for you. It's more expensive than a standard one, but it's a much safer and more secure option to ensure that someone else will not be able to start your car.

Keyless Entry System

As increasing numbers of people seek convenience, security and safety keys for their cars have become a common feature. These little transmitters can unlock doors, set off the alarm for panic or open the trunk and even start your engine without needing the physical key in your hands. They are easily tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. It's costly to replace them, and you may need to program your new fob to connect it with your vehicle.

The cost of cutting a basic key fob in an hardware store is around ten dollars. However, the most recent smart keys can be costly when you need to purchase them, as well as program them. Based on your car's make and model you could expect to shell out between $200 to $500 to replace a fob plus the cost of having it cut and programmed to your car.

There are other more advanced car keys systems that let you make use of your smartphone as an actual key. By using the app on your phone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car, and you can switch your lights on and off, as well as activate your parking brake, and perform other things depending on your proximity to the car. This is ideal for people who reside in urban areas or have children and worry about children leaving the car unattended.

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

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

Dealership

Some people believe they need to go to the dealer when keys are missing. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership and may purchase the key from the manufacturer. This could take a few days. A dealer will usually complete the job quicker than a locksmith, and may even cost less.

It is likely that the key fob will still need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done either through the dealer or reading the owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors and turning lights and other electronics on and off. It could even require pressing a series of buttons which act as codes. This is usually handled by the drivers, however it's always better to let an expert manage it.

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

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

Other brands are more difficult to work with. This includes some of the older companies that have closed, or are old enough to have keys that are no longer being produced. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. The keys are typically modified. This is more expensive and difficult than replacing the key.

In general, if you have a spare key, it is best to have it cloned at a specialist instead of getting a replacement key fobs for cars from the dealer. You will avoid paying higher prices for after-hours and weekend services. Then, if you do lose your keys you can rest assured that the copied key will function.