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Car Keys Replacement Cost

In the past, losing your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could bring your spare key to a key cutter and get an alternative that cost of a replacement car key $10 or less.

However the process has become more complex and expensive. Read on to learn about the different types of keys for cars and what they can cost you to replace.

Basic Key Fob

Key fobs are an electronic remote control and key in one. It's tiny, plastic device with a button that you can press to unlock doors and hatchbacks, open the trunk, open windows, roll them down and, possibly, even start the car. The key fob has an electronic chip inside that communicates with the car's onboard system to control functions such as the starter.

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

If your car was built in the last five years, chances are that you'll need to go to the dealership to get a mobile replacement car keys fob as many newer cars require special equipment to code and program new keys. Locksmiths or key shops typically can perform this task for less, however.

The type of fob you're using can also impact the cost. Older cars have mechanical key fobs while the modern models have transponder keys. Key fobs of both types can be equipped with a range of features. They can include keyless entry which locks and unlocks your car automatically, or rolling codes that are updated regularly to prevent thieves from stealing the information on your key fob.

Online key fobs may be less expensive than ones you can get from the dealer, but they may not work on your car. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips in their key fobs, which prevent them from working with third-party devices. Some dealers can program an aftermarket key fob when it's purchased, but it's very likely that it won't work.

Go through your owner's manual or visit the manufacturer's website for more information on programming your specific model's key fob. It's a good idea to try this yourself prior to going to the dealer or hiring a locksmith to do it. You can also check your vehicle's warranty, roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance policy to see if they cover the costs of a replacement key fob.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are used in most newer cars. These keys contain an embedded chip in the key's head that sends a signal to the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and for starting the engine. This key type is more secure than traditional flat metal keys because a transponder chip prevents the car from starting if it does not receive an appropriate signal from the key. This technology was developed to reduce car key replacement theft as it is almost impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the right equipment.

Many vehicles are also equipped with immobilizers that stop them from being started if they are used with keys that are not transponder. Car thieves have developed ways to steal cars equipped with transponder key systems.

A locksmith can help repair your transponder key in the event that it is damaged or lost. They'll need information about your vehicle like the VIN number and model. They'll either program your current key to the car's system or cut new keys. This is a little more expensive than simply cutting a key from a dealership and program a new key.

Some stores for automotive like AutoZone or Walmart can also 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 service to ensure that a professional is capable of handling the job.

Before the advent of technology like this it was fairly easy for someone to make a duplicate car key and then hot wire a vehicle. This method was used to steal cars, and it permitted criminals to steal stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have greatly reduced this crime, but it isn't entirely eliminated it completely.

If you need a replacement transponder key, or have lost yours, the best option is to contact an expert and let them do it for you. It will cost more than a standard key, but it's a safer and more reliable option to ensure that anyone else cannot start your car.

Keyless Entry System

As increasing numbers of people want convenience, security and safety, car key fobs are now a standard feature. These tiny transmitters can open doors, activate the alarm for panic, open the trunk, and even start your car without having to carry a physical key in your hands. They can be thrown around and are more likely to get lost car keys replacement cost or stolen. They're also expensive to replace, and you might need fob programming to pair the new key with your vehicle.

A standard key fob can cost around ten dollars to cut at a hardware store, but the most recent smart keys aren't cheap if you're looking to purchase the keys and have them programmed. It is possible to spend between $200 and $500 for the 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 use your smartphone as an actual key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle remotely using the app on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, activate your parking break, and perform other things based on the distance you're to your vehicle. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas, or if you're a parent that's worried about your kids leaving the car unsupervised.

Some of these systems could be expensive, but are more secure than the standard car key. They track your location to prevent you from locking or starting the car if you are too far from. Certain of these systems will help you locate your car in a garage, and others will notify you when you shut or open the doors.

These kinds of systems could also be useful for companies, such as property managers who manage office space or vacation rentals. These systems let them monitor access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those who have permissions are allowed to enter and exit the premises.

Dealership

Some people believe they need to visit a dealer when keys are missing. The dealer will request proof of ownership and may request keys from the manufacturer. This could take a few days. A dealer will usually complete the job quicker than a locksmith, and may even cost less.

It is likely that the key fob will need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership, or by reading the owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, and switching off and on lights and other electronic devices. It could even require pressing a set of buttons that act as a code. Often, this can be performed by the driver but it is always better to have a technician do it.

The year the car was manufactured, its model and make of the car will have an impact on the price, too. Modern cars feature high-tech transponder chips that will require pairing with the vehicle by a locksmith or dealer and the process may be more expensive.

A dealer who sells a particular brand of car is more likely know how to replace keys for that vehicle. Some of the larger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a huge variety of models and are more acquainted with the keys that are used for those models.

Some brands are harder to work with. This includes some of the older firms that have been 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 require reprogramming and can be more complicated and costly than replacing the key itself.

In general, if you have a spare key, it is usually best to have it cloned at a specialist instead of getting a replacement from the dealer. So, you don't have to worry about having to pay the higher after-hours or weekend rates. If you lose your keys, you can be sure that the cloned key will function.