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Car Keys Replacement Cost

A few years ago, losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could take your spare keys to a key cutter and get a new one for $10 or less.

Today, however the process is more complex and costly. Find out more about the various kinds of keys for cars and what they will cost you to replace them.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob can be described as an electronic remote and a key in one. It's a small, plastic device that contains one or more buttons that you push to unlock the doors and open the trunk or hatchback, open the windows and maybe even start the car. The key fob comes with an electronic chip embedded that communicates with the car's onboard systems to control functions like the starter.

A basic key fob is generally made of plastic and employs a lock-and key mechanism, like the type you'd find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob could cost between $50 and $100, but the true cost comes when you have to replace a lost key replacement car or damaged one.

If your car was made in the past five years, chances that you'll have to visit the dealer for a replacement fob as many newer cars require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or a key shop will usually be able to do this at a lower cost.

The kind of fob you own can also impact the cost. Older cars have mechanical key fobs, whereas the most recent models typically have transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of key fobs can be equipped with a range of features. They can include keyless entry which locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically, or rolling codes that are changed frequently to keep thieves from stealing the data on the key fob.

Online key fobs may be less expensive than the ones you can buy at the dealer, but they might not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru, have security chips in their key fobs that prevent them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealerships can program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in however there's a high chance that it won't work.

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

Transponder Key

Most newer cars use keys that are known as a transponder key. These keys contain a chip embedded in the head of the key that sends a signal to the vehicle when it is inserted into the ignition cylinder. The signal is used to unlock the car and start the engine. This type of key is more secure than conventional flat metal keys due to a transponder chip prevents the car from starting if it doesn't receive a signal from the correct key. This technology was developed to stop car theft since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these kinds of keys without the right equipment.

Many cars are also equipped with immobilizers that stop the vehicle from starting if they are used with keys that are not transponder. However, criminals have also come up with ways to break into and steal cars that are equipped with transponder keys.

A locksmith can assist you to replace your transponder keys if it's damaged or stolen. They'll need the details of your particular vehicle, such as the VIN number as well as the model and year. They can then either program your existing key to the car's system, or cut new keys. This is a little more expensive than simply having a car dealership cut and program a cheapest replacement car keys key.

Some stores for automotive like AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and copy transponder keys but they aren't capable of reprogramming chips in the key. It is best to call an experienced and reliable locksmith company if you want to ensure that a professional will be able to handle the task.

It was fairly easy to create a duplicate key for a car key lost replacement and then wire a vehicle prior to the advent of this modern technology. This method of stealing cars was frequent and allowed criminals to get into and drive off with stolen vehicles. The introduction of the transponder key has drastically reduced this crime however, it's not completely eliminated.

If you require a new transponder keys or you've lost yours, the best option is to contact a professional and have them do it for you. The cost will be higher than a conventional key, but it's a safer and more secure method to ensure that your car can't be started by anyone else.

Keyless Entry System

As increasing numbers of people want convenience, security and safety, car key fobs have become a standard feature. They are able to open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, or even start the engine without the physical key. But they can also endure quite a beating from being tossed around and they are more likely to be lost or stolen than metal keys. That means they're expensive to replace, and you could require fob programming to connect your new key with your vehicle.

A basic key fob will cost ten or so dollars to get cut at a hardware store, but the latest smart keys aren't cheap when you're looking to purchase the keys and have them programmed. It is possible to spend between $200 and $500 for an alternative key fob. This includes the cost to have it cut and programmed for your car.

Some advanced car key systems let you use your phone as keys. Using the app on your smartphone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car, and you can switch your lights on and off, as well as activate your parking brake, and do other things based on the proximity of your car. These apps are ideal for those who live in urban areas, or if you're a parent that's worried about your children leaving the car unattended.

Certain of these systems are costly, but they're also more secure than a regular car key as they monitor your location and stop you from accidentally locking your car or turning off the engine in case you're not close enough. They also can help you locate your car inside parking garages and even alert you if the doors are shut or opened.

These systems are also useful for companies such as property managers who manage vacation rentals or offices. These systems permit them to control access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also make sure that only those with permissions are allowed to enter and exit the premises.

Dealership

Some people might feel that they need to visit a dealership if keys go missing. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership, and could request the key from the manufacturer. This can take several days. A dealer is usually able to complete the job faster than a locksmith and could even cost less.

The key fob might require programming to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by reading your owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors and turning lights and other electronics on and off. It can even require pressing a set of buttons that acts like an electronic code. This is usually handled by the driver, but it's best to let an expert take care of it.

The cost can also be dependent on the year, make and model of vehicle. The cost of car key replacement of the service can also be affected by the year, make and model of the vehicle.

A dealer that sells a certain model will be more likely to have the knowledge to change keys for the model. Some of the biggest manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a wide number of models, and are more acquainted with the keys that are used for the models they sell.

Other brands are more difficult to work with. This includes some of the older companies that have shut down, or are old enough to have keys that are no longer being produced. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. Typically, these keys have to be reprogrammed which is more complicated and costly than replacing the key itself.

It is recommended that you get your spare key copied by a professional instead of purchasing an entirely new one from the dealer. So, you don't have to worry about paying the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. If you lose your keys, you are assured that the cloned key will work.