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Car Keys Replacement Cost

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

Today, however the process is more complicated and expensive. Find out more about the various types of keys for cars and how they will cost you to replace.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob can be described as a remote control and 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, open windows, roll them down and, possibly, even start the vehicle. The key fob is equipped with an electronic chip embedded that communicates with the car's onboard systems to regulate functions such as the starter.

A basic key fob is typically made of plastic and employs a lock-and key mechanism, like the one you'd find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost anything from $50 to $100, but the true price is when you need to replace a lost or damaged one.

You'll likely have to visit a dealer if your vehicle is newer than five years. Many newer cars require special equipment to code and programme new keys. A locksmith shop or key shop will typically be capable of doing this at a lower cost.

The cost of your fob can depend on the type of fob you own. Older vehicles use mechanical keys, whereas modern models usually come with transponder keys or smart keys. Key fobs of both types can be equipped with a variety of features. They may include keyless entry that locks and unlocks your car automatically or rolling codes that change frequently to stop thieves from stealing the data on the key fob.

It's possible to buy an aftermarket key fob online at a lower cost than what you'd pay at a dealership however, they may 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 key fob, if it's brought in, however it's very likely that it won't function.

Go through your owner's manual or visit the manufacturer's website for information about programming your particular model's key fob. It is recommended to try this yourself prior to paying a locksmith or going to the dealer. You can also check your vehicle's warranty and 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 contain an embedded chip in the key's head that transmits a signal to the vehicle when it is inserted into the ignition cylinder. The signal is used to unlock the car and Car keys replacement cost start the engine. This key is more secure than a conventional flat metal key due to the transponder chip blocks the car from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was designed to stop car theft since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the appropriate equipment.

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

A locksmith can help repair your transponder key in the event that it is damaged or lost. They will require details of your vehicle including the VIN number and model. They'll either program your existing key to the car's computer system or cut an entirely new one. This is a more costly process than having a dealership cut and program replacement key fob for car keys.

Some stores for automotive, such as AutoZone and Walmart are also capable of cutting and copying the transponder keys, however they may not be in a position to reprogram the chip inside the key. If you want to be sure that a professional can handle the task, you should call a reputable and experienced locksmith company.

Before the invention of this technology it was quite simple to create a duplicate car key and then hot wire a car. This was a method used to steal cars and it allowed criminals drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have drastically reduced this crime, but it isn't entirely eliminated it.

You can get an expert to do this for you if you need an extra transponder key or if you've lost one. It's more expensive 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, car key fobs are now a standard feature. These devices can open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, or start the engine without an actual key. They are easily tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. That means they're expensive to replace, and you might require fob programming in order to pair your new one with your vehicle.

A basic key fob will cost of replacement car keys ten or so dollars to cut at the hardware store, however the latest smart keys aren't cheap when you need to buy them and have them programmed. Based on your car's make and model you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $500 for a replacement fob plus the cost of having it cut and programmed to your car.

Certain advanced car key systems let you use your smartphone as keys. You can lock or unlock your car remotely using the app on your phone. You can also turn off and on your lights, turn on your parking break, as well as perform other tasks based on the distance you're to the vehicle. These are perfect for those who live in urban areas or if you have children and are worried about your children being in the car without supervision.

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 on the engine in case you're not close enough. Some of these systems can help you locate your car in a garage and others can alert you if you open or close the doors.

These kinds of systems could also be beneficial to businesses, such as property managers who oversee office space or vacation rentals. These systems allow 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 may feel that they have to go to the dealership when keys go missing. The dealer will ask for proof of ownership and may request the key from the manufacturer. This could take several days. A dealer can usually do the job more quickly than a locksmith, and might even charge less.

It is likely that the key fob will still need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by referring to the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, as well as turning lights and other electronic components on and off. It could also involve pressing a combination of buttons that acts like an electronic code. This is often handled by the driver, but it is always best to let an expert manage it.

The year the model, make and year of the vehicle will impact the cost as well. The cost of the service may also be affected by the year, make and model of the vehicle.

A dealer who sells specific model of car is more likely be able to replace the keys for that vehicle. Some of the bigger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler, have many models and are well-versed in the keys.

Other brands are more difficult to work with. This includes a few of the older 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 require reprogramming and can be more difficult and more expensive than replacing the key itself.

It is recommended to have your spare key cloned by a professional instead of buying another one from the dealer. You will avoid paying higher rates for after-hours and weekend services. If you do lose your keys you can rest assured that the cloned key will work.