Car Keys Replacement Cost

Not long ago, misplacing your car keys was not an issue. You could bring your spare key to a key cutter for an alternative that cost less than $10.

Nowadays, however, the process can be more complicated and costly. Learn about the different types and costs for car key fob replacement keys.

Basic Key Fob

Key fobs are an electronic remote control and an actual key in one. It's a small, plastic device that houses a button or buttons that you push to unlock the doors and open the trunk or hatchback, roll down the windows, and perhaps start the car. The key fob has an embedded electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard system to manage functions such as the starter.

Basic key fobs are made from standard plastic, and use a regular lock and key replacement for car mechanism. They're the same as those that were used on the old Pontiacs and Saturns. A basic key fob may cost anywhere from $50 to $100, but the true cost comes when you have to replace a lost or damaged one.

You'll likely need to visit a dealer if your vehicle is newer than five years. A lot of newer vehicles require special equipment to code and programme new keys. A locksmith or a key shop can usually do this for less though.

The cost of your fob could depend on the type you have. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, while most recent models utilize transponder keys. Both can have a wide range of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically to rolling codes that are updated regularly to prevent thieves from taking and using the key fob information of your car.

You may be able to purchase an aftermarket key fob online for less than the price you'd pay at the dealer however they might not work with your vehicle. Some manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips that block their key fobs from working with third party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in, but there's a good chance it won't continue to function.

You can get information on programming your key fob by looking up the manufacturer's site or the owner's guide. It's worth trying this yourself prior to going to the dealership or hiring an expert locksmith to do it. You may also want to check the warranty on your vehicle and the auto-insurance policy to see if they cover the cost of a brand new key fob.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are used in most newer cars. These keys have an embedded chip in the head that sends a message to the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and for starting the engine. This type of key is more secure than conventional flat metal keys because transponder chips stop the cheap car keys replacement from starting if it doesn't receive a signal from the correct key. This technology was designed to prevent theft of cars because it is almost impossible to duplicate these keys without the right equipment.

Many vehicles are also equipped with immobilizers that stop them from being started when they are operated with a key that is not transponder. However, criminals have also come up with ways to steal and break into cars that are equipped with transponder keys.

A locksmith will usually be able to help you replace a lost or damaged transponder key. They'll need the information about your specific vehicle, including the VIN number, model and year. Then, they'll cut a new one or program the one they have to the car's system. This is a costlier procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys.

Some automotive stores like AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and copy transponder keys, but may not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. If you want to ensure that a professional can handle the job, call a reputable and experienced locksmith company.

Before the advent of technology like this it was quite easy for someone to make duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a vehicle. This method of stealing cars was very common and allowed criminals to gain entry and drive off with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have greatly 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 alternative transponder key or if you've lost yours. It will cost more 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 more and more people demand security, convenience, and safety, car key fobs are now a standard feature. These tiny transmitters can open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, and even start your car without having to have a physical key in your hands. But they can also endure a lot of abuse from being used in a variety of ways, and are more likely to be lost or stolen than the metal keys. It's costly to replace them, and you might need to program your new fob to connect it with your vehicle.

The cost of cutting a basic fob for a key at an hardware store is around ten dollars. However, the latest smart keys can be expensive when you need to purchase them as well as programme them. You can expect to spend between $200 and $500 on the replacement key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed for your vehicle.

Some advanced car key systems let you use your phone as keys. By using the app on your phone, you can remote lock or unlock your car, and you can switch your lights on and off, as well as activate your parking brake, and perform other things based on the proximity of your car. These apps are ideal for those who live in urban areas, or parents who are worried about your kids leaving the car unattended.

Certain of these systems can be expensive however, they're more secure than a regular car key since they track your location and prevent you from locking the car or turning the engine on if you're too far away. They can also help you find your car in garages that have parking spaces and can even warn you if the doors are shut or opened.

These kinds of systems can also be beneficial to companies, such as property managers who manage office space or vacation rentals. These systems let them control 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. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership and purchase keys from the manufacturer. This could take a few days. A dealer can usually do the job quicker than a locksmith, and might even charge less.

The key fob may still need to be programmed for your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by referring to your owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors and turning lights and other electronic components on and off. It can even involve pressing a series of buttons which acts as an electronic code. Most of the time, this is performed by the driver but it is always better to have a technician handle it.

The cost will also be affected by the year, make and model of vehicle. Modern cars feature sophisticated transponder chips which will need to be paired with the vehicle by a locksmith or a dealer and the process could be more costly.

A dealer who sells a particular model of car key stuck In ignition is more likely to be able to replace keys for that model. Some of the bigger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan, have a large number of models, and are more acquainted with the keys for those models.

Some brands are harder to work with. This includes some of the older companies that have closed, or are old enough to have keys that are no longer in production. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are some of the more established companies that no longer produce keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. These keys are usually modified. This is more expensive and difficult than replacing the key.

In general, if you have a spare key, it is best to duplicate it at a specialist instead of getting a replacement from the dealer. That way you can avoid paying the higher after-hours or weekend rates. If you lose your keys you can be assured that the cloned one will function.