Car Keys Replacement Cost

In the past, losing your car keys was not an issue. You could bring your spare key to a key cutting shop for the replacement key for less than $10.

However the process has gotten more complicated and costly. Learn about the various types and costs of car keys.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob is both a remote and key in one. It's tiny, plastic device equipped with a button which can be pushed to open doors and hatchbacks, open the trunk, lower windows and maybe even start the car. The key fob also has a built-in electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard computer system to control functions like the starter.

Basic key fobs are constructed from plastic that is standard, and use a regular lock and key mechanism. They are the same as those found on old Pontiacs as well as Saturns. A basic key fob can cost between $50 and $100, but the actual cost is when you need to replace a lost or damaged one.

You'll probably need to visit the dealer if your vehicle is newer than five years. Most newer vehicles require special equipment to code and programme new car key replacement keys. A locksmith near me car key replacement, Read Homepage, or key shop will usually be able to do this for less, however.

The cost of your fob could depend on the type you own. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, while latest models use transponder keys. Both types of keys can have a wide range of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle instantly to rolling codes that change regularly to prevent thieves from taking and using the data from your key fob.

Key fobs purchased online may be cheaper than those you can purchase from a dealer, but they may not work on your car. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that block their key replacements for cars fobs from interacting with third-party devices. Some dealerships can program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in but there's a good 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. It is recommended to try this yourself prior to paying an expert locksmith or visiting the dealer. You can also check your vehicle's warranty, roadside assistance and auto-insurance policy to see if they cover the costs of a replacement key fob.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are found in the majority of newer automobiles. The keys contain a chip embedded into the head that sends an electronic message to the vehicle after it is inserted in the ignition cylinder. The signal is used to unlock the car replacement key and start the engine. This key type is more secure than traditional flat metal keys since transponder chips stop the car from starting if it doesn't receive an appropriate signal from the key. This technology was created to prevent theft of cars since it is almost impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the proper equipment.

Additionally, many cars also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting when a non-transponder key is used. Car thieves have devised ways to steal cars equipped with transponder key systems.

A locksmith is usually able to help you replace a lost or damaged transponder key. They will require details about your car like the VIN number and model. Then they will cut a new one or program the current one to your car's system. This is a costlier process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.

Some auto stores such as AutoZone or Walmart can cut and copy transponder keys, however, they may not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. It is recommended to contact a reputable and experienced locksmith firm to be sure that a professional will be competent to complete the task.

Before the advent of technology like this it was quite easy to make duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a vehicle. This method of stealing cars was widespread and allowed criminals to gain entry and drive off with stolen vehicles. The advent of transponder keys has greatly reduced the likelihood of this happening however, it's not completely eliminated.

You can contact a professional to do this for you if you need an extra transponder key or if you've lost one. It's more expensive than a standard key but it's a much safer and more reliable option to ensure that anyone else is unable to start your car.

Keyless Entry System

As increasing numbers of people seek convenience, safety and security key fobs for cars have become a common feature. These tiny devices can unlock doors, set off the alarm that sounds a panic or open the trunk and even start your car without having to carry a physical key in your hand. However, they also endure some abuse from being tossed around and they are more likely to get lost or stolen than metal keys. That means they're expensive to replace, and you might require fob programming to connect your new key with your vehicle.

A basic key fob costs ten or so dollars to cut at the hardware store, however the most recent smart keys aren't cheap if you want to purchase them and have them programmed. You can expect to spend between $200 and $500 for an alternative key fob. This includes the cost to have it cut and programmed for your vehicle.

Certain advanced car key systems let you use your smartphone as keys. You can lock or unlock your vehicle via the app on your phone. You can also turn on and off your lights, turn on your parking break, and perform other tasks based on the distance you're to the vehicle. They are perfect for people who reside in urban areas, or even if you're a parent that's worried about your children leaving the car replacement keys unattended.

Certain of these systems can be expensive however, they're more secure than a standard car key as they locate you and prevent you from accidentally locking your car or turning on the engine in case you're not close enough. Certain of these systems will help you locate your car in a garage, and others can alert you if you shut or open the doors.

These systems are also beneficial for businesses such as property managers who manage offices or vacation rentals. These systems can allow them to monitor the access rights for guests, cleaning staff, and maintenance staff, as well as making sure that only those with the proper permissions can go into and out of the space.

Dealership

Some people may think that they need to visit a dealership if their keys disappear. The dealer will request proof of ownership and request the key from the manufacturer. This can take several days. A dealer will usually complete the job faster than a locksmith and might even cost less.

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

The year the model, make and year of the car will impact the price as well. Modern cars come with sophisticated transponder chips which will require pairing with the vehicle by a locksmith or dealer and the process could be more costly.

A dealer that sells a certain model of car is more likely to have the knowledge to replace keys for the model. Some of the larger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a wide variety of models and are more acquainted with the keys that are used for the specific models.

Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the more established brands that have closed or are so old that they no longer produce keys are included. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn, and Eagle. Typically, these types of keys need to be reprogrammed which is more complicated and costly than replacing the key itself.

In general, if you have a spare key, it is usually best to duplicate it at an expert instead of obtaining an alternative from the dealer. That way you can avoid having to pay the higher after-hours or weekend rates. If you lose your keys you are assured that the cloned one will work.