10 Car Keys Replacement Cost That Are Unexpected

Car Keys Replacement Cost

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

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

Basic Key Fob

Key fobs are an electronic remote and a key in one. It's a small, plastic device that has one or more buttons that you press to unlock the doors and trunk, open the hatchback, open the windows, car Key locksmith and perhaps start the car. The key fob also comes with a built-in electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard system to manage functions such as the starter.

Key fobs for basic use are typically made from standard plastic, and use a regular lock and key mechanism. They are identical to those that were used on the old Pontiacs and Saturns. 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.

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

The kind of fob you own will also affect the price. Older cars use mechanical keys, whereas the latest models usually have transponder keys or smart keys. Key fobs of both types 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 updated regularly to prevent thieves from stealing the data on your key fob.

You may be able to purchase an aftermarket key fob for less than the price you'd pay at a dealership, but these may not be compatible with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips inside their key fobs that block them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealerships will program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in however there's a high chance it won't continue to function.

Check your owner's manual or visit the manufacturer's website to find information on programming your specific model's key fob. It is recommended to try this yourself prior to paying for a locksmith or going to the dealer. You can also check your vehicle's warranty, roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance policy to see if they cover the costs of a replacement car keys fob for your key.

Transponder Key

Most modern cars utilize keys that are known as a transponder key. They have an embedded chip in the key's head which transmits a signal the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and for starting the engine. This key is more secure than the 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 kinds of keys without the proper equipment.

Many cars are also equipped with immobilizers which prevent them from being started when they are operated with keys that are not transponder. Car thieves have come up with methods to steal vehicles with transponder key systems.

A locksmith can help repair your transponder key replacement for car in the event that it's damaged or stolen. They will need to have the details of your particular vehicle, such as the VIN number, model and year. Then, they'll cut a new key or program the current one to the car's system. This procedure is more expensive than simply having a car dealership cut and program a new key.

Some auto stores such as AutoZone or Walmart can cut and duplicate 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 job, contact an experienced and trusted locksmith service.

Before the invention of this technology it was fairly easy to make duplicate car keys and then hot wire a vehicle. This method was used to steal cars and car key locksmith it allowed criminals drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced this crime, but not entirely eliminated it completely.

You can call an expert to do this for you if you need an alternative transponder key or if you lost yours. The cost will be higher than a conventional key, but it's a safer and better method to ensure that your vehicle can't be started by anyone else.

Keyless Entry System

Car key fobs are now an everyday feature in cars as more people want convenience, safety and security. These tiny transmitters can open doors, activate the alarm for panic, open the trunk, and even start your engine without needing to have a physical key in your hands. They are easily tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. It's expensive to replace them, and you may need to program your new key to pair it with your vehicle.

The cost of cutting a standard key fob at a hardware shop is around ten dollars. However, the newest smart keys can be expensive if you must purchase them, as well as program them. You should expect to pay between $200 and $500 on a replacement key fob. This includes the cost to have it cut and programmed for your vehicle.

There are other more advanced car keys systems that allow you to use your smartphone as an actual key. 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 depending on your proximity to the car key locksmith. These are great for people who reside in urban areas, or if you're a parent that's worried about your children leaving the car without supervision.

Some of these systems could be expensive, but are more secure than the standard car key. They track your location to prevent you from locking or opening the car if you're too far from. They also can help you find your car in garages that have parking spaces and even alert you if the doors are opened or closed.

These systems are also useful for companies such as property managers who oversee vacation rentals or offices. These systems can allow them to monitor the access rights of guests as well as cleaning staff and maintenance staff, as well as ensuring that only those who have the proper permissions can go into and out of the space.

Dealership

Some people feel they must go to the dealer if their keys are missing. They'll have to show proof of ownership, and occasionally keys must be ordered from the manufacturer which could take several days. But a dealer will generally complete the task for you much faster than a locksmith, and they may have cheaper prices, too.

The key fob might require to be programmed for your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by reading the owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors and turning lights and other electronic components on and off. It may also require pressing a series of buttons that act as codes. Often, this can be done by the driver, however, it is best to have a technician perform it.

The year the model, make and year of the vehicle will have an impact on the price, too. The cost of the service can be affected by the year, make and model of the vehicle.

A dealer who sells a specific model of car is more likely to have the knowledge to replace keys for the model. Some of the larger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have several models and are well-versed in the keys.

Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the more established brands that have closed or are old enough that they no longer produce keys are listed. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are a few of the older companies that no longer produce keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these kinds of keys require reprogramming and can be more difficult and expensive than replacing the key itself.

It is best to have your spare key cloned by a specialist rather than purchasing another one from the dealer. You will not have to pay the higher rates for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys you can be sure that the cloned key will function.