Car Keys Replacement Cost Tools To Simplify Your Daily Life

Car Keys Replacement Cost

It wasn't that long ago that losing keys to your car was not a major issue. You could take your spare key to a key cutter for a new one that cost less than $10.

Nevertheless, the process has become more complex and expensive. Learn more about the different types of keys for cars and what they will cost you to replace them.

Basic Key Fob

Key fobs are a remote control and key in one. It's a tiny plastic device that contains a button or buttons that you can push to unlock the doors, open the trunk or hatchback, lower the windows, and possibly start the car. The key fob has an electronic chip embedded that communicates with your car's onboard systems to regulate functions such as the starter.

Key fobs for basic use are typically made of standard plastic and use a regular lock and key mechanism. These are identical to those found on old Pontiacs as well as Saturns. A basic key fob will cost anywhere between $50-$100, but you'll be charged more if you require a replacement for one that has been lost or damaged.

If your car was made in the last five years, the 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 typically can do this for less however.

The cost of the fob you purchase can be affected by the type you have. Older vehicles use mechanical keys, whereas the most recent models typically have transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of keys are able to have a range of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the car key battery replacement in a controlled manner to changing codes on a regular basis to prevent thieves from taking and stealing your car's key fob data.

You may be able to purchase an aftermarket key fob online for less than the price you'd pay at the dealer however, they may not be compatible with your vehicle. Some manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from interacting with third-party devices. Some dealerships can program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in, but there's a good possibility that it won't work.

Check your owner's manual or go to the manufacturer's site to find information on programming your specific model's key fob. You should try to do this yourself first before paying a locksmith or going to the dealer. You could also check your vehicle's warranty, roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance policy to see if they cover the costs of a replacement key fob.

Transponder Key

Most modern cars utilize a type of key called transponder keys. These keys have embedded chips in the head that sends a message to the vehicle after it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and start the engine. This key type is more secure than traditional flat metal keys because a transponder chip prevents the car from starting if it fails to receive the right signal from the key. This technology was created to stop car theft since it is nearly impossible to duplicate these keys without the right equipment.

Many cars are also equipped with immobilizers that prevent the vehicle from starting when they are operated with keys that are not transponder. Car thieves have come up with methods of stealing cars with transponder key systems.

A locksmith can usually help you replace the damaged or lost transponder key. They'll require the details of your particular vehicle, such as the VIN number along with the year, model and year. Then they will cut a new key or program the one they have to your car's system. This how.much Is a replacement car key a more costly process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.

Some auto stores, such as AutoZone and Walmart can also be capable of cutting and copying a transponder key, but they might not be in a position to reprogram the chip inside the key. If you want to ensure that a professional can handle the job, call a reputable and experienced locksmith company.

It was relatively easy to create duplicate keys for a car and wire a vehicle prior to the advent of this new technology. This was a method used to steal cars, and it permitted criminals to steal stolen vehicles. The introduction of transponder keys has greatly reduced this activity but it's not completely eliminated.

If you need a replacement transponder key, or have lost yours, the best solution is to contact an expert and let them do it for you. It's more expensive than a standard one, but it's a safer and more secure alternative to ensure that someone else is unable to start your car.

Keyless Entry System

As increasing numbers of people seek convenience, safety and security, car key fobs have become a common feature. These tiny devices can unlock doors, activate the alarm for panic or open the trunk and even start your car without having to have a physical key in your hand. However, they also endure quite a beating from being tossed around and they're more likely to be lost or stolen than metal keys. It's costly to replace keys, and you might have to program your new key to pair it with your vehicle.

A standard key fob can cost ten or so dollars to cut at an hardware store, but the most recent smart keys can be expensive if you're looking to purchase the keys and have them programmed. Depending on your vehicle model and make, you can expect to pay between $200 to $500 for a replacement fob, in addition to the cost of having it cut and programmed to your vehicle.

Some sophisticated car key systems let you use your smartphone as keys. By using the app on your phone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car and you can also switch your lights on and off, turn off your parking brake, and do other things based on your proximity to the car. These apps are ideal for those who live in urban areas or if you have kids and worry about your children being in the car without supervision.

Some of these systems can be costly, but they are more secure than the standard car key. They track your location to prevent you from locking or opening the car when you are far away. Some of these systems can help you locate your car in a garage, and others will notify you when you close or open the doors.

These kinds of systems could also be beneficial to businesses, like property managers who manage vacation rentals or office spaces. These systems can allow them to monitor access rights of guests cleaners, guests, and maintenance personnel, while making sure that only those with the appropriate permissions are allowed to get in and out of the space.

Dealership

Some people may feel that they must go to the dealership when keys go missing. The dealer will ask for proof of ownership, and could order keys from the manufacturer. This could take several days. However, how.much Is a replacement car key a dealer can generally complete the task for you quicker than locksmiths, and they may have cheaper prices, too.

The key fob might require programming for your vehicle. This can be done through the dealer or reading the owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors and turning lights and other electronics on and off. It could even involve pressing a series of buttons that acts like a code. Most of the time, this is performed by the driver but it is always better to have a technician do it.

The cost will also be dependent on the year, model and year of vehicle. Newer cars have sophisticated transponder chips which will need to be paired with the vehicle by a locksmith or dealer and the process could be more expensive.

A dealer that sells a particular brand of vehicle is more likely to know how to replace keys for the vehicle. Some of the bigger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a wide variety of models and are more familiar with the keys for those models.

Certain brands are difficult to work with. This includes some of the more established companies that have shut down, or are old enough to have keys that are no longer in production. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn, and Eagle. Typically, these types of keys have to be reprogrammed which is more difficult and more expensive than replacing the key itself.

In general, if you have a spare key it is recommended to have it cloned at an expert instead of obtaining an alternative from the dealer. That way you can avoid paying the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. Then, if you do lose your keys you can rest easy knowing that the copied key will work.