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Car Keys Replacement Cost

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

However the process has gotten more complicated and costly. Learn more about the various types of keys for cars and what they'll cost you to replace them.

Basic Key Fob

Key fobs are an remote as well as a key in one. It's a small, plastic piece equipped with a button which you can press to unlock doors or hatchbacks, open the trunk, lower windows, and possibly even start the car. The key fob is equipped with an electronic chip in it that communicates with the car's onboard systems to control functions like the starter.

A basic key fob is typically made of standard plastic and uses a regular lock-and-key mechanism, like the type you'd find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob may cost between $50 and $100, but the actual cost comes when you have to replace a lost or damaged one.

You'll likely have to visit the dealer if the car is newer than five years. A lot of newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith shop or key shop will usually be in a position to provide this service at a lower cost.

The type of fob you're using can also impact the cost. Older cars have mechanical keys, whereas the most recent models typically have transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of keys come with a variety of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the car instantly to rolling codes that change regularly to deter thieves from intercepting and using the key fob information of your car.

Key fobs that are available online could be cheaper than those you can get from the dealer, but they may not work on your car. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that prevent their key fobs from interfacing with third-party devices. Some dealerships will program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in, but there's a good chance that it won't function.

You can find out more about programming your key fob by searching the site of the manufacturer or in your owner's guide. It's worth trying this yourself before going to the dealership or hiring a locksmith to do it. You can also look at the warranty of your vehicle, the roadside assistance and auto-insurance coverage to determine if they will cover the cost of a replacement fob for your key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are utilized in the majority of modern cars. These keys contain a chip embedded in the head of the key that transmits a signal to the vehicle when it is inserted into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and launching the engine. This key type is more secure than standard flat metal keys because transponder chips prevent the car from starting if it does not receive the right signal from the key. This technology was developed to stop car theft since it is nearly impossible to duplicate these kinds of keys without the right equipment.

In addition, many cars also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting when the key is not transponder-compatible. However, car criminals have also come up with ways to steal and break into cars that are equipped with transponder keys.

A locksmith can usually help you replace the damaged or lost transponder key. They will require details about your car including the VIN number and model. They will then cut a new key or program the existing one to the car's system. This procedure is more expensive than having a car dealership cut and program a new key.

Some auto stores such as AutoZone or Walmart can cut and copy transponder keys, but they aren't capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. If you want to ensure that a professional is able to complete the task, you should call a reputable and experienced locksmith company.

It was quite simple to create a duplicate key for a car, and then hot-wire a vehicle before the advent of this modern technology. This was a method used to steal cars and allowed criminals drive away with stolen vehicles. The introduction of transponder keys has greatly reduced this activity but it's not completely eliminated.

You can call an expert to do this for you if you need a replacement transponder key, or if you've lost key replacement car yours. The cost will be higher than a traditional key but it's a safer and better way to ensure that your vehicle 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 transmitters can open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, or even start the engine without having the physical key. They can also be subject to some abuse from being used in a variety of ways, and they are more likely to get lost or stolen than the metal keys. It's expensive to replace them, and you may need to program your new key to pair it 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 when you're looking to purchase them and then have them programmed. You can expect to spend between $200 and $500 on the replacement car key costs key fob. This includes the cost to have it cut and programmed for your car.

Certain advanced car key systems let you use your phone as a key. By using the app on your phone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car and you can also switch on and off, as well as activate your parking brake, and perform other things depending on the proximity of your car. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas, or even if you're a parent that's concerned about your children leaving the car unattended.

Some of these systems are expensive, but they're also more secure than a regular car key since they monitor your location and stop you from locking the car or turning off the engine in case you're not close enough. Certain of these systems can help you locate your car in a garage and others can notify you when you open or close the doors.

These systems can also be useful for businesses like property managers who manage vacation rentals or offices. These systems are able to monitor the access rights for guests as well as cleaning staff and maintenance personnel, while making sure that only those with the right permissions can get into and out of the space.

Dealership

Some people may feel that they must visit a dealership if their keys disappear. The dealer will ask for proof of ownership and purchase keys from the manufacturer. This could take a few days. But a dealer will typically complete the task for you quicker than locksmiths, and may have cheaper prices, too.

It is likely that the key fob will require programming to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership, or by consulting your owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, and turning on and off lights and other electronic devices. It can even require pressing a set of buttons that functions as the code. This can often be done by the drivers, however it's always better to let a technician take care of it.

The year the model, make and year of the car will affect the price as well. The cost of the service could also be affected by the year, make and model of the vehicle.

A dealer who sells a particular brand of car will be more likely to have the knowledge to replace keys for the model. Some of the biggest manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler, have many models and are familiar with keys.

Certain brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have been shut down or are so old that they no longer produce keys are included. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. Typically, these kinds of keys have to be reprogrammed, which can be more complicated and costly than replacing the key itself.

In general, if you have a spare key it is best to have it cloned at a specialist rather than getting an alternative from the dealer. This way, you avoid having to pay the higher after-hours or weekend rates. If you lose your keys, you can be sure that the cloned one will function.