Car Keys Replacement Cost

A few years ago, losing your keys to your car wasn't a big deal. You could bring your spare to key cutters and purchase a new one for $10 or less.

Nevertheless the process has become more complicated and costly. Learn more about the various types of car keys and how they will cost you to replace.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob is both an remote as well as a key in one. It's a tiny plastic device that houses buttons or buttons that you can push to unlock the doors, open the trunk or hatchback, open the windows and maybe even start the car. The key fob also comes with an embedded electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard system to control functions such as the starter.

A basic key fob is usually made of standard plastic and utilizes a standard lock-and-key mechanism, such as the one you'd find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob could cost anywhere from $50 to $100, but the real price is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one.

If your car was manufactured within the past five years, chances are that you'll need to go to the dealership for a replacement fob, since many modern cars require specialized equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith shop or key shop will usually be capable of doing this for less.

The cost of the fob you purchase can depend on the type you have. Older cars use mechanical keys, whereas the latest models usually have transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of keys can have a wide range of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the vehicle in a controlled manner to rolling codes that change regularly to stop thieves from stealing and stealing your car's key fob data.

It's possible to purchase an aftermarket key fob at a lower cost than what you'd pay at the dealership however, they may not work with your vehicle. Some manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips in their key fobs that block them from working with third-party devices. Some dealers can program an aftermarket key fob, if it's brought in, but it's very likely that it won't function.

Check your owner's manual or go to the manufacturer's site to find information on programming your specific model's key fob. It is recommended to try this yourself before hiring an expert locksmith or visiting the dealer. You can also check 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

Transponder keys are used in the majority of modern cars. They have a chip embedded in the head of the key that transmits a signal to the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and for starting the engine. This key type is more secure than conventional flat metal keys due to transponder chips stop the car from starting if it does not receive a signal from the correct key. This technology was created to reduce car theft because it is virtually impossible to duplicate these keys without the right equipment.

Additionally, many cars also come with immobilizer systems that stop them from starting if keys that are not transponder compatible are used. Car thieves have devised methods of stealing cars with transponder key systems.

A locksmith is usually able to help you replace the damaged or lost transponder key. They'll need the details about your specific vehicle, such as the VIN number, model and year. Then, they'll either cut a new key or program the existing one to your car's system. This is a costlier process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.

Some automotive stores like AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and copy transponder keys however, they may not be capable of reprogramming chips in the key. If you want to be sure that a professional is able to complete the task, you should seek out a reputable and experienced locksmith company.

Before the advent of this technology it was quite easy for someone to make duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a vehicle. This method was used to steal cars, and it permitted criminals to steal stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have drastically reduced this crime, but not entirely eliminated it completely.

You can call an expert to handle this for you in the event that you require an extra transponder key or if you've lost one. It will cost more than a standard key however it's a safer and more reliable option to ensure that someone else is unable to start your car.

Keyless Entry System

As increasing numbers of people want security, convenience, and safety keys for their cars are now a standard feature. These tiny transmitters can open doors, set off the alarm for panic, open the trunk, and even start your car without having to carry a physical key in your hands. They are easily tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. It's costly to replace them, and you may need to program your new key to pair it with your vehicle.

The cost of cutting a basic key fob at a hardware shop is around ten dollars. However, the newest smart keys can be costly if you have to buy them, as well as program them. Based on the model and make you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 and $500 for a replacement fob in addition to the cost of cutting it and programming it to your car.

Some advanced car key systems allow you to 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 off and on your lights, activate your parking break, and do other tasks based on the distance you're to the car. They are perfect for people who live in urban areas, or if you're a parent that's worried about your kids leaving the car unattended.

Some of these systems are expensive however they're also more secure than a standard car key as they monitor your location and stop you from locking the car or turning the engine on in case you're not close enough. Certain systems can assist you in finding your car in a garage and others can notify you when you shut or open the doors.

These types of systems can also be useful for businesses, such as property managers who oversee office space or vacation rentals. These systems permit them to monitor access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also make sure that only those who have permissions are allowed in and out.

Dealership

Some people might feel that they must visit a dealership if their keys disappear. They'll need to provide proof of ownership, and occasionally the key has to be ordered from the manufacturer, which could take several days. But a dealer can also usually get the job done for you faster than locksmiths, and they may offer lower prices too.

The key fob may still require programming for your car. This can be done at the dealership or by consulting the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors and turning lights and other electronics on and off. It may also require pressing a series of buttons that act as an electronic car key replacement code. Often, this can be performed by the driver however, it is best to have a technician do it.

The year the model, make and car keys replacement cost year of the vehicle will have an impact on the price, too. Modern cars feature advanced transponder chips that require pairing with the car by a locksmith or Car Keys Replacement Cost a dealer and the process may be more costly.

A dealer who sells a particular model will be more likely to know how to change keys for the model. Some of the larger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler, have many models and are well-versed in the keys.

Some brands are harder to work with. This includes a few of the older firms that have been shut down or are old enough to have keys that are no longer in production. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. Typically, these keys need to be reprogrammed and can be more complicated and costly than replacing the key itself.

It is best to have your spare key cloned by a professional rather than getting an entirely new one from the dealer. You will avoid paying higher rates for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys, you can be assured that the cloned key will work.