Car Keys Replacement Cost

It wasn't long ago that losing keys to your car was not a problem. You could bring your spare key to a key cutter for a new one that cost $10 or less.

Nevertheless, the process has become more complicated and costly. Find out about the various kinds and costs for car keys.

Basic Key Fob

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

A basic key fob is typically made of plastic and employs a lock-and key mechanism, such as the one you'd find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob could cost anywhere from $50 to $100, but the real cost comes when you have to replace a lost or damaged one.

You'll likely have to visit the dealer if the car is more than five years old. Most newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. Locksmiths or key shops typically can do this for less, though.

The type of fob you have will also affect the price. Older cars use mechanical key fobs while the most recent models utilize transponder keys. Both of these types come with a variety of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the vehicle automatically to rolling codes that change regularly to prevent thieves from taking and using the data from your key fob.

You might be able to purchase an aftermarket key fob for less than the price you'd pay at a dealership, but these may not be compatible with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru, have security chips inside their key fobs that prevent them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealerships will program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in however there's a high chance it won't continue to function.

Read the owner's manual for your model or go to the manufacturer's site for more information on programming your specific model's key fob. You should try to do this yourself before hiring a locksmith or going to the dealer. You can also check the warranty on your vehicle and the auto-insurance policy to determine if they cover the cost of a brand new key fob.

Transponder Key

Most newer cars use keys of a different type, known as a transponder key. These keys contain an embedded chip inside 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 type of key is more secure than standard flat metal keys due to transponder chips prevent the car from starting if it fails to receive the right signal from the key. This technology was designed to prevent theft of cars since it is nearly impossible to duplicate these kinds of keys without the appropriate equipment.

In addition, many cars also come with immobilizer systems that stop them from starting if keys that are not transponder compatible are used. However, thieves have also devised methods to gain access and steal vehicles that have transponder keys.

A locksmith will usually be able to help you replace the damaged or lost transponder key. They will need the information about your vehicle, such as the VIN number and model. They will then either program your existing key to the car's system or cut an entirely new one. This procedure is more expensive than simply having a car dealership cut and program a replacement remote car keys key.

Some auto stores, such as AutoZone and Walmart, are also capable of cutting and copying the transponder key, however 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, contact an experienced and trusted locksmith company.

Before the invention of technology like this it was quite easy for someone to make a duplicate car key and then hot wire a vehicle. This method was used to steal cars and it allowed criminals drive away with stolen vehicles. The introduction of transponder keys has drastically reduced this crime but it's not completely eliminated.

You can contact an expert to do this for you if you require an extra transponder key or if you lost yours. The cost will be higher than a standard key, but it is a much safer and more secure method to ensure that your car is not able to be started by anyone else.

Keyless Entry System

Car key fobs are now a standard feature in vehicles as more people want convenience, safety and security. These tiny transmitters can open doors, set off the panic alarm, open the trunk, and even start your engine without needing the physical key in your hands. They can be tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. It's costly to replace them, and you might have to program your new fob to connect it with your vehicle.

The cost of cutting a standard key fob at a hardware store is about 10 dollars. However, the most recent smart keys can be expensive when you need to purchase them and then program them. Depending on your vehicle make and model, you can expect to pay anywhere from $200-$500 for a replacement car keys cost fob and the cost of having it cut and programmed to your car.

Some advanced car key systems let you use your phone as keys. You can lock or unlock your car remotely using the app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, turn on your parking break, as well as perform other things based on the distance you're to your car. This is ideal for people who live in urban areas or if you have kids and are worried about children leaving the car unattended.

Certain of these systems can be expensive however, they're more secure than a standard replacement car keys key since they locate you and prevent you from accidentally locking your car or turning the engine on when you're far away. Certain of these systems will help you locate your car in a garage, and others will notify you when you close or open the doors.

These systems can also be useful for companies such as property managers who oversee vacation rentals or offices. These systems are able to monitor the access rights of guests cleaners, guests, and maintenance workers, while ensuring that only those with the proper permissions can go in and out of the space.

Dealership

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

The key fob might require programming for your car. This can be done at the dealer or by consulting your owner's guide. It involves closing and opening doors and turning lights and other electronics on and off. It may even require pressing a number of buttons that act as a code. This is often handled by the driver, but it's best to let a technician manage it.

The cost will also be dependent on the year, make and type of vehicle. The cost of the service may be affected by the year, model and model of the vehicle.

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

Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the more established brands that have been shut down or are so old that they no longer manufacture keys are listed. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. Typically, these kinds of keys require reprogramming, which can be more difficult and expensive than replacing the key itself.

It is best to get your spare key copied by a specialist rather than purchasing a new one from a dealer. That way you can avoid having to pay the more expensive after-hours or weekend rates. If you lose your keys, you can rest assured that the cloned key will function.