Car Keys Replacement Cost

Not long ago, misplacing your car keys was not a big deal. You could bring your spare to an a key cutter and buy a new one for just $10 or less.

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

Basic Key Fob

A key fob can be described as an electronic remote control and an actual key in one. It's a small, plastic device equipped with a button which you can press to unlock doors or hatchbacks, open the trunk, lower windows and maybe even start the vehicle. The key fob has an electronic chip built in that communicates with the car's onboard systems to control functions such as the starter.

A basic key fob is generally made of plastic and uses a regular lock-and-key mechanism, like the type you'd find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob will cost anywhere between $50 to $100, however you'll pay more if you require a replacement car keys price for one that's lost car keys replacement or damaged.

You'll likely have to visit a dealer if your vehicle is older than five years old. A lot of newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith shop or key shop will usually be in a position to provide this service for less.

The kind of fob you own can affect the price. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, while latest models use transponder keys. Key fobs of both kinds can be equipped with a variety of features. They can include keyless entry which locks and unlocks your car automatically, or rolling codes that are changed frequently to keep thieves from stealing the data on the key fob.

Online key fobs may be cheaper than those you can purchase from a dealer, but 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 a second-hand key fob when it's brought in, however it's highly unlikely that it will work.

Go through your owner's manual or search the manufacturer's website for more information about programming your particular model's key fob. It's worth trying this yourself prior to going to the dealership or hiring an expert locksmith. You may also want to check your car's warranty and auto insurance policy to determine whether they cover the cost of a new key fob.

Transponder Key

The majority of newer cars have keys of a different type, known as a transponder key. The keys have an embedded chip in the head of the key which transmits a signal the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and launching the engine. This key is more secure than a conventional flat metal key due to the transponder chip blocks cars from starting without the correct signal. This technology was created to stop car theft since it is almost impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the proper equipment.

Many cars are also fitted with immobilizers which prevent them from starting if they are used with a key that is not transponder. However, car thieves have also devised ways to break into and steal cars that are equipped with transponder keys.

A locksmith can help to replace your transponder keys if it's damaged or lost. They'll require the details about your specific vehicle, such as the VIN number as well as the model and year. Then they will cut a new key or program the existing one to your car's security system. This is a costlier process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.

Some automotive stores, like 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 in the key. If you want to be sure that a professional is able to complete the job, call a reputable and experienced locksmith business.

Before the advent of this technology, it was relatively easy for someone to make a duplicate car key and then hot wire a car. This method was used to steal cars and it permitted criminals to steal stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced the risk of this crime, but it isn't entirely eliminated it.

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 one. The cost will be more than a standard key, however it's a safer and better method to ensure that your vehicle can't be started by anyone else.

Keyless Entry System

As more and more people demand convenience, security and safety keys for their cars have become a common feature. These tiny devices can unlock doors, activate the alarm that sounds a panic or open the trunk and even start your car without having to have a physical key in your hands. They can be tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. This means they're costly to replace, and you could require fob programming in order to pair the new key with your vehicle.

A basic key fob will cost ten or so dollars to get cut at the hardware store, however the most recent smart keys aren't cheap car key replacement when you're looking to purchase them and then have them programmed. You should expect to pay between $200 and $500 for a replacement key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed to fit in your car.

There are additionally more advanced car key systems that allow you to make use of your smartphone as a key. By using the app on your smartphone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car, and you can switch on and off, activate your parking brake, and perform other things depending on the proximity of your car. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas or even parents who are worried about your kids leaving the Car key locksmith unsupervised.

Some of these systems can be expensive however, they're more secure than a standard car key as they track your location and prevent you from accidentally locking your car or turning off the engine if you're too far away. They can also help you locate your car inside garages that have parking spaces and even alert you when the doors are open or closed.

These types of systems can also be useful for businesses, such as property managers that oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems can allow them to monitor the access rights for 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 may feel that they must go to the dealership when their keys are lost. The dealer will ask for proof of ownership and may purchase the key from the manufacturer. This can take several days. But a dealer can also usually get the job done for you faster than locksmiths, and may offer lower prices too.

The key fob may still need to be programmed for your vehicle. This can be done through the dealer or looking up the owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, as well as turning on and off lights and other electronic devices. It could even involve pressing a combination of buttons that functions as a code. This can often be done by the drivers, but it's always better to let a technician manage it.

The year the car was manufactured, its model and make of the car will affect the price as well. The cost of the service may also be affected by the year, make and model of the vehicle.

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

Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the more established brands that have been shut down or that are old enough that they no longer produce keys are included. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. These keys are usually changed. This can be more expensive and difficult than replacing the key.

In general, if you have a spare key, it is recommended to duplicate it at a specialist instead of getting a replacement keys for car from the dealer. This way, you avoid paying the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. If you lose your keys you can be sure that the cloned one will work.