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Car Keys Replacement Cost

It wasn't too long ago that losing keys to cars was not a big issue. You could bring your spare to an a key cutter and buy an additional one for $10 or less.

However, the process has become more complex and expensive. Learn about the various types and costs of keys for cars.

Basic Key Fob

Key fobs are an electronic remote control and a key in one. It's tiny, plastic device equipped with a button which can be pushed to open doors and hatchbacks, open the trunk, open windows, roll them down, and possibly even 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.

A basic key fob is generally constructed of plastic that employs a lock-and key mechanism, such as the type you'd find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob may cost anywhere from $50 to $100, but the real price is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one.

You'll likely have to visit a dealer if your car is newer than five years. A lot of newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or key shop is usually in a position to provide this service for less.

The cost of your fob can depend on the type you have. Older cars have mechanical key fobs, while most recent models utilize transponder keys. Both of these types are able to have a range of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle instantly to rolling codes that are updated regularly to deter thieves from intercepting and using the key fob information of your car.

You may be able to purchase an aftermarket key fob for less than the price you'd pay at the dealership however they might not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru include security chips in their key fobs, which prevent them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealers will program an aftermarket key fob if it's brought in, but it's likely that it won't function.

Go through your owner's manual or visit the manufacturer's website for information about programming your particular model's key fob. Try to do this yourself first before paying for a locksmith or going to the dealer. You may also want to check the warranty on your vehicle and the auto-insurance policy to see whether they will cover the cost of a new key fob.

Transponder Key

The majority of newer cars have keys replacement for cars of a different type, known as a transponder key. These keys contain an embedded chip in the key's head which transmits a signal the vehicle when it is inserted into the ignition cylinder. The signal is used to unlock the car and begin the engine. This key is more secure than a traditional flat metal keys because the transponder chip blocks the car from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was created to reduce car theft as it is virtually 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, thieves have also devised ways to break into and steal cars with transponder keys.

A locksmith will usually be able to assist you in replacing a lost or damaged transponder key. They will need to have the details of your particular vehicle, including the VIN number along with the year, model and year. Then, they'll cut a new key or program the current one to your car's security system. This is a more expensive procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement key fob for car keys.

Some automotive stores, like AutoZone and Walmart are also capable of cutting and copying a transponder key, but they might not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. If you want to be sure that a professional can handle the job, call a reputable and experienced locksmith business.

Before the advent of this technology it was quite easy for someone to make a duplicate car key and then hot wire a vehicle. 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 this activity, but it is not completely eliminated.

You can call an expert to handle this for you if you need an extra transponder key or if you've lost yours. It's more expensive than a standard one, but it's a much safer and more reliable option to ensure that anyone else cannot start your car.

Keyless Entry System

As increasing numbers of people want convenience, safety and security keys for their cars have become a common feature. They can open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, or even start the engine without an actual key. But they can also take quite a beating from being tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen than metal keys. That means they're expensive to replace, and you could need fob programming to pair your new one with your vehicle.

The cost of cutting a basic fob for a key at a hardware shop is around ten dollars. However, the newest smart keys can be costly when you need to purchase them, as well as program them. You should expect to pay between $200 and $500 for a replacement key fob. This includes the cost to have it cut and programmed for 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 smartphone, 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 do other things depending on your proximity to the car. These are great for people who reside in urban areas or even if you're a parent that's worried about your children leaving the car unsupervised.

Some of these systems could be costly, but they are more secure than a standard car key. They monitor your location to stop you from locking or opening the car if you are too far from. Certain systems will help you locate your car in a garage, and others will notify you when you open or close the doors.

These kinds of systems can also be beneficial for businesses, such as property managers that oversee vacation rentals or office spaces. These systems let them control access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also make sure that only those with permissions are permitted to enter and exit.

Dealership

Some people may think that they need to go to the dealer if keys go missing. They'll have to show proof of ownership, and Car Keys Replacement Cost occasionally the key has to be ordered from the manufacturer which could take several days. However, a dealer can usually get the job done for you much faster than locksmiths, and they may offer lower prices as well.

The key fob could require programming for your car. This can be done at the dealership or by consulting your owner's guide. It involves closing and opening doors, and turning off the lights and other electronic devices on and off. It could even require pressing a series of buttons that function as a code. This is usually handled by the drivers, however it's always better to let an expert take care of it.

The year, make and model of the car will impact the cost as well. Modern cars feature sophisticated transponder chips which will need to be paired with the car by a locksmith or dealer, and the process can be more costly.

A dealer who sells a particular brand of car will be more likely to have the knowledge to change keys for the model. Some of the larger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler, have many models and are well-versed in keys.

Certain brands are difficult to work with. This includes a few of the older companies that have shut down, 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 keys have to be reprogrammed which is more difficult and more expensive than replacing the key itself.

If you have a spare key it is usually best to get it copied by a specialist rather than getting an exchange from the dealer. This way, you avoid having to pay for the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. If you lose your keys, you can be assured that the duplicate will function.