Car Keys Replacement Cost

A few years ago, losing your car key replacement service keys wasn't an issue. You could take your spare key to a key cutting shop for an alternative that cost $10 or less.

Today, however the process is more complex and expensive. Learn about the different types and costs of keys for cars.

Basic Key Fob

Key fobs are a remote and key in one. It's a small, plastic piece with a button you can press to unlock doors or hatchbacks, open the trunk, roll down windows and maybe even start your car. The key fob has an embedded electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard system to manage functions such as the starter.

Basic key fobs are made from standard plastic, and utilize 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 costs anywhere between $50 and $100, but you'll pay more if you require a replacement for one that's damaged or lost.

You'll probably need to visit the 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 shop or key shop is usually able to do this at a lower cost.

The cost of the fob you purchase can be affected by the type you own. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, whereas modern models usually come with transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of key fobs are able to be fitted with a variety of features. They can 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.

Online key fobs may be cheaper than those you can buy at the dealer, but they might not be compatible with your car. Some manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips that block their key fobs from interacting with third-party devices. Some dealerships will program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in, but there's a good chance it won't continue to function.

Go through your owner's manual or visit the manufacturer's website for information on programming your specific model's key fob. It's worth trying this yourself before going to the dealership or hiring a locksmith to do it. You can also look at your vehicle's warranty, roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance coverage to see if these cover the costs of a replacement key fob.

Transponder Key

The majority of newer cars have keys of a different type, known as a transponder key. They have a chip embedded into the head which transmits an electronic message to the vehicle when it is inserted in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and starting the engine. This key is more secure than a traditional flat metal keys because the transponder chip stops a car from starting without the correct signal. This technology was created to prevent theft of cars since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these kinds of keys without the appropriate equipment.

In addition, many cars also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting when keys that are not transponder compatible are used. Car thieves have developed ways to steal cars equipped with transponder key systems.

A locksmith can help you replace your transponder key if it is damaged or lost. They will require information about your vehicle including the VIN number and model. Then, they'll cut a new key or program the one they have to your car's security system. This is a more costly process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.

Some auto stores such as AutoZone or Walmart can cut and copy transponder keys, but they aren't capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. It is recommended to contact a reputable and experienced locksmith company if you want to ensure that a professional is capable of handling the job.

Before the advent of technology like this, it was relatively easy to make a duplicate car key and then hot wire a car. This was a method used to steal cars and it allowed criminals drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced the risk of this crime, but they haven't completely eliminated it completely.

You can get an expert to handle this for you if you need a replacement transponder key, or if you lost yours. It will cost more than a standard one, but it's a much safer and more secure option to ensure that anyone else will not be able to start your car.

Keyless Entry System

Car key fobs are now a standard feature in vehicles as more people seek convenience, Car Keys Replacement Cost security and security. These tiny devices can unlock doors, set off the panic alarm or open the trunk and even start your engine without needing to carry a physical key in your hands. But they can also be subject to quite a beating from being tossed around, and are more likely to get lost or stolen than metal keys. It's costly to replace them, and you may have to program your new fob to pair it with your vehicle.

A basic key fob will cost around ten dollars to cut at the hardware store, however the most recent smart keys aren't cheap if you need to buy them and then have them programmed. You should expect to pay between $200 and $500 on a replacement key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed for your car.

Certain advanced car key systems allow you to use your smartphone as keys. You can lock or unlock your vehicle by using an app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn on and off your lights, activate your parking break, as well as perform other tasks based on how close you are to the vehicle. They are perfect for people who reside in urban areas or parents who are concerned about your children leaving the car unsupervised.

Certain of these systems may be expensive, but are more secure than a standard car key. They track your location to prevent you from locking or starting the car key replacement cost when you are too far from. They also can help you locate your car inside a parking garage, and some can warn you when the doors are opened or closed.

These systems are also beneficial for businesses like property managers who manage offices or vacation rentals. These systems permit them to check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those who have permissions are allowed in and out.

Dealership

Some people may think that they need to go to the dealership when keys go missing. They'll have to show proof of ownership, and sometimes keys must be ordered from the manufacturer, which can take a few days. A dealer can usually do the job more quickly than a locksmith, and might even charge less.

It is likely that the key fob will still need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership, or by reading your owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors, and turning off the lights and other electronic devices on and off. It can even require pressing a set of buttons which acts as a code. This is usually handled by the driver, but it's best to let a technician manage it.

The cost can also be affected by the year, model and year of vehicle. Newer cars have high-tech transponder chips that will need to be paired with the vehicle by a locksmith dealer and the process may be more costly.

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

Other brands are more 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 in production. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. These keys are usually modified. This can be more expensive and difficult than replacing the key.

It is recommended to have your spare key cloned by a specialist rather than buying another one from the dealer. You will not have to pay the higher rates for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys you can be sure that the cloned one will function.