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car key replacement price Keys Replacement Cost

Not long ago, misplacing your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could bring your spare key to a key cutting shop for the cheapest replacement car keys key for less than $10.

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

Basic Key Fob

A key fob can be described as an remote as well as a key in one. It's a small, plastic device with a button that you can push to unlock doors, open the hatchback or trunk, lower windows, and possibly even start your car. The key fob is equipped with an electronic chip in it that communicates with the car's onboard systems to control functions such as the starter.

A basic key fob is usually made of plastic and uses a regular lock-and-key mechanism, like the type you'd find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost anywhere between $50 to $100, however you'll pay more if you need to replace one that has been lost or damaged.

If your car was made within the past five years, chances that you'll have to visit the dealership for a replacement fob, since many modern cars require specialized equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith or key shop will typically be able to do this for less.

The kind of fob you own can also impact the cost. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, while the most recent models typically have transponder keys or smart keys. Both of these types come with a variety of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the vehicle instantly to changing codes on a regular basis to prevent thieves from taking and stealing the key fob information of your car.

You might be able to purchase an aftermarket key fob at a lower cost than what you'd pay at the dealer however they might not be compatible with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru, have security chips inside their key fobs that prevent them from working with third-party devices. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob if it's purchased, but it's likely that it won't work.

Go through your owner's manual or go to the manufacturer's site for more information about programming your particular model's key fob. It's a good idea to try this yourself prior to going to the dealership or hiring a locksmith to do it. You may also want to check your car's warranty and auto insurance policy to determine whether they cover the cost of a new key fob.

Transponder Key

The majority of newer cars have keys of a different type, known as transponder keys. They have an embedded chip in the head that transmits a message to the vehicle once it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and launching the engine. This key is more secure than a conventional flat metal key due to 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 types of keys without the right equipment.

Many cars are also fitted with immobilizers that prevent the vehicle from starting when they are operated by keys that do not have a transponder. However, criminals have also come up with ways to steal and break into vehicles that have transponder keys.

A locksmith can help repair your transponder key in the event that it is damaged or lost. They will need the details about your car including the VIN number and model. Then they will cut a new one or program the current one to the car's system. This is a costlier procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys.

Some auto stores, such as AutoZone and Walmart can also be capable of cutting and re-copying the transponder keys, however they may not be in a position to reprogram the chip inside the key. It is best to call an experienced and reputable locksmith service to ensure that a professional is capable of handling the job.

Before the invention of this technology, it was relatively simple to create a duplicate car key and then hot wire a vehicle. This technique was used to steal cars, and it permitted criminals to steal stolen vehicles. The introduction of transponder keys has drastically reduced this crime however, it's not completely eliminated.

You can call an expert to handle this for you if you require an alternative transponder key or if you've lost one. The cost will be more than a standard key, but it is a much safer and better method to ensure that your vehicle cannot be started by someone else.

Keyless Entry System

As increasing numbers of people want security, convenience, and safety keys for their cars are now a standard feature. They can open doors, trigger the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, or even start the engine without a physical key. But they can also be subject to quite a beating from being used in a variety of ways, and are more likely to get lost or stolen than traditional keys. It's expensive to replace them, and you may need to program your new fob to connect it with your vehicle.

A basic key fob will cost around ten dollars to get cut at a hardware store, but the latest smart keys aren't cheap if you need to buy them and have them programmed. Depending on your vehicle make and model you could expect to shell out between $200-$500 for a replacement fob, plus the cost of cutting it and programming it to your car.

Certain advanced car key systems let you make use of your smartphone as an actual key. 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 do other things based on the distance you're to your car. These are great for people who live in urban areas, or even parents who are worried about your children leaving the car unattended.

Certain of these systems can be expensive, but they're also more secure than a regular car key since they locate you and prevent you from accidentally locking the car or turning the engine on when you're far away. They can also assist you to locate your car inside garages that have parking spaces and even alert you if the doors have been open or closed.

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

Dealership

Some people may think that they have to go to the dealership when keys go missing. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership and purchase keys from the manufacturer. This could take several days. A dealer can usually do the job quicker than a locksmith, and could even charge less.

The key fob could require to be programmed for your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership, or by reading the owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, as well as turning on and off lights and other electronic devices. It may even require pressing a number of buttons which act as codes. This is usually handled by the drivers, but it is always best to let an expert handle it.

The cost will also be dependent on the year, model and year of vehicle. Newer cars have advanced transponder chips that require pairing with the vehicle by a locksmith or a dealer, and the process can be more costly.

A dealer who sells a specific brand of car will be more likely to know how to replace keys for that model. Some of the biggest manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have several models and are familiar with the keys.

Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the more established brands that have been shut down or that are old enough that they no longer manufacture keys are included. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. Typically, these keys need to be reprogrammed, which can be more difficult and expensive 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 exchange from the dealer. You will avoid paying higher prices for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys, you can be sure that the cloned key will work.