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Car Keys Replacement Cost

In the past, losing your keys to your car wasn't an issue. You could take your spare keys to key cutters and purchase an additional one for $10 or less.

However the process has become more complex and expensive. Learn more about the different types of keys for cars and how they will cost you to replace.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob is an electronic remote control and an actual key in one. It's a small plastic device that contains buttons or buttons that you press to unlock the doors and trunk, open the hatchback, lower the windows, reprogrammed and perhaps start the car. The key fob has a built-in electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard computer system to control functions like the starter.

Key fobs for basic use are typically constructed from plastic that is standard, and use a regular lock and key mechanism. These are identical to those found on old Pontiacs or Saturns. A basic key fob may cost between $50 and $100, but the actual cost is when you need to replace a lost or damaged one.

You'll likely need to visit the dealer if your vehicle is newer than five years. Most newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. Locksmiths or key shops will usually be able to perform this task for less, though.

The type of fob you have will also affect the price. Older vehicles use mechanical key fobs, whereas the latest models usually have transponder keys or smart keys. Key fobs of both kinds can be equipped with a variety of features. They may include keyless entry, which locks and unlocks your car automatically or rolling codes that change regularly to prevent thieves from intercepting the data on the key fob.

You might be able 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, such as Audi and Subaru, include security chips in their key fobs that block them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealers will program an aftermarket key fob when it's brought in, but it's highly unlikely that it will work.

Read the owner's manual for your model or go to the manufacturer's site to find information on programming your specific model's key fob. It's a good idea to try this yourself prior to going to the dealership or paying an expert locksmith. You can also check your vehicle's warranty, auto-insurance policy and roadside assistance coverage to determine if they will cover the cost of a replacement key fob.

Transponder Key

The majority of newer cars have keys that are known as transponder keys. The keys have a chip embedded in the head of the key that transmits a signal to the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and for starting the engine. This type of key is more secure than conventional flat metal keys since a transponder chip prevents the car from starting if it does not receive the right signal from the key. This technology was created to prevent theft of cars because it is nearly impossible to duplicate these keys without the proper equipment.

Many cars are also fitted with immobilizers which prevent the vehicle from starting if they are used with keys that are not transponder. However, thieves have also developed ways to break into and steal cars with transponder keys.

A locksmith will usually be able to help you replace the damaged or lost transponder key. They'll need the details of your particular vehicle, including the VIN number, model and year. They can then either program your existing key to the car's system or cut an entirely new one. This is a more costly process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.

Some automotive stores, like AutoZone and Walmart can also be capable of cutting and re-copying a transponder key, but they might not be able to reprogram the chip in the key. You should contact a reputable and reprogrammed experienced locksmith firm to be sure that a professional will be able to handle the task.

It was relatively easy to create a duplicate key for a car and wire a vehicle prior to the advent of this new technology. This was a method used to steal cars, and it permitted criminals to steal stolen vehicles. The advent of transponder keys has greatly reduced the likelihood of this happening, but it is not completely eliminated.

You can call a professional to do this for you in the event that you require a replacement transponder key, or if you lost yours. It's more expensive than a standard key but it's a safer and more reliable alternative to ensure that someone else cannot start your car.

Keyless Entry System

Car key fobs are becoming a standard feature of vehicles as people are seeking convenience, security and security. These transmitters can open doors, trigger the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, and even start the engine without an actual key. They can be tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. That means they're expensive to replace, and you could need fob programming to pair your new one with your vehicle.

A basic key fob costs around ten dollars to 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. Based on your car's model and make you could expect to shell out between $200 and $500 to replace a fob and the cost of having it cut and programmed 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 remotely using the app on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, turn on your parking break, as well as perform other tasks based on the proximity to the car. These are great for people who live in urban areas, or even if you're a parent that's concerned about your children leaving the car unsupervised.

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

These systems can also be useful for companies such as property managers who manage vacation rentals or offices. These systems can allow them to monitor access rights for guests as well as cleaning staff and maintenance workers, while ensuring that only those with the right permissions can get into and out of the space.

Dealership

Some people may feel that they must visit a dealership if keys go missing. The dealer will request proof of ownership, and could order the key from the manufacturer. This could take a few days. But a dealer will usually get the job done for you quicker than a locksmith, and they may offer lower prices too.

The key fob might 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 switching off and on lights and other electronic devices. It can even involve pressing a combination of buttons that functions as the code. Often, this can be performed by the driver, however, it is best to have a technician handle it.

The cost can also be dependent on the year, model and year of vehicle. Newer cars have high-tech transponder chips that will require pairing with the car by a locksmith or a dealer and the process may be more expensive.

A dealer who sells a particular brand of car will be more likely to know how to replace keys for that model. Some of the biggest manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler, have many models and are familiar with keys.

Other brands are more difficult to work with. This includes a few of the older firms that have been shut down or are old enough to have keys that are no longer in production. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn, and Eagle. Typically, these kinds of keys need to be reprogrammed which is more difficult and expensive than replacing the key itself.

It is best to have your spare key car replacement cloned by a professional instead of buying an entirely new one from the dealer. You will not have to pay the more expensive rates for after-hours or weekend services. Then, if you do lose your keys, you can rest easy knowing that the copied key will work.