Car Keys Replacement Cost

It wasn't too long ago that misplacing keys to your car was not a problem. You could bring your spare key to a key cutter for an alternative that cost less than $10.

However the process has gotten more complex and expensive. Read on to learn about the different types of car keys and how they will cost you to replace them.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob can be described as an remote control as well as a key in one. It's tiny, plastic device with a button you can press to unlock doors or hatchbacks, open the trunk, open windows, roll them down and maybe even start the car. The key fob has an electronic chip embedded that communicates with the car key battery replacement's onboard systems to control 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 similar to the ones that were used on the old Pontiacs and Saturns. A basic key fob can cost anything from $50 to $100, but the real cost is when you need to replace a lost or damaged one.

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

The cost of the fob you purchase can also depend on the type you have. Older cars use mechanical key fobs while the most recent models utilize transponder keys. Both of these types come with a variety of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle in a controlled manner to changing codes on a regular basis to prevent thieves from taking and using your car's key fob data.

You may be able to buy an aftermarket key fob for less than the price you'd pay at the dealer however they might not be compatible with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru, have security chips inside their key fobs, which prevent them from working with third-party devices. Some dealers can program an aftermarket key fob, if it's brought in, but it's highly unlikely that it will work.

Read the owner's manual for your model or search the manufacturer's website for more information about programming your particular model's key fob. It's worth trying this yourself before going to the dealership or paying an expert locksmith to do it. You may also want to check your vehicle's warranty and auto-insurance policy to determine whether they will cover the cost of replacing a key fob.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are utilized in the majority of modern cars. They have an embedded chip in the head of the key that sends a signal to the vehicle when it is inserted into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and starting the engine. This key is more secure than the traditional flat metal keys because the transponder chip stops a car from starting without the correct signal. This technology was developed to prevent theft of cars because it is almost impossible to duplicate keys without the appropriate equipment.

Additionally, many vehicles also come with immobilizer systems that stop them from starting if the key is not transponder-compatible. Car thieves have devised ways to steal cars equipped with transponder key systems.

A locksmith will usually be able to help you replace a lost or damaged transponder key. They'll need details of your vehicle like the VIN number and model. They can then either program your current key to the car's system, or cut new keys. This is a costlier process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.

Some stores for automotive like AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and duplicate transponder keys but may not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. If you want to be sure that a professional is able to complete the task, you should call a reputable and experienced locksmith business.

Before the advent of technology like this it was quite easy to make duplicate car keys and then hot wire a vehicle. This method of stealing cars was common and allowed criminals to gain entry and drive off with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have drastically reduced the risk of this crime, but not entirely eliminated it.

You can call an expert to do this for you in the event that you require an alternative transponder key or if you lost yours. It will cost more than a standard key, but it's a safer and better option to ensure that anyone else will not be able to start your car.

Keyless Entry System

As increasing numbers of people seek convenience, safety and security key fobs for cars have become a standard feature. These transmitters can open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, or even start the engine without a physical key. But they can also be subject to some abuse from being used in a variety of ways, and are more likely to be lost or stolen than metal keys. This means they're costly to replace, and you could require fob programming in order to pair your new car key replacement key with your vehicle.

The cost of cutting a basic fob for a key at an hardware store is around ten dollars. However, the newest smart keys can be costly when you need to purchase them, as well as program them. Based on the model and make you can expect to shell out between $200-$500 for a replacement fob, and the cost of having it cut and programmed to your vehicle.

There are additionally more advanced car key systems that allow you to make use of your smartphone as an actual key. You can lock or unlock your car via the app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn on and off your lights, turn on your parking break, as well as perform other things based on how close you are to your vehicle. These apps are ideal for those who live in urban areas or if you have children and are worried about them leaving the car unattended.

Certain of these systems may be expensive, but they are more secure than a regular car key. They track your location to prevent you from accidentally locking or starting the car if you are far from. They can also assist you to find your car in garages that have parking spaces and even alert you when the doors are open or closed.

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

Dealership

Some people believe they need to go to the dealer when keys are missing. The dealer will ask for proof of ownership, and could purchase the key from the manufacturer. This could take a few days. But a dealer can also generally complete the task for you faster than locksmiths, and they may offer lower prices as well.

The key fob might need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by reading the owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, as well as switching off or on lights and other electronic devices. It may even require pressing a series of buttons which act as an electronic code. This is usually handled by the drivers, but it's always better to let a technician take care of it.

The year the model, make and year of the car will affect the price as well. The cost of the service can be affected by the year, make and model of the vehicle.

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

Some brands are harder to work with. Some of the more established brands that have been shut down or are so old that they no longer make keys are included. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are a few of the more established companies that have stopped producing keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. These keys are usually changed. This can be more expensive and time-consuming than replacing the key.

It is best to have your spare key cloned by a professional rather than getting a new one from the dealer. You will avoid paying higher rates for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys you can be assured that the cloned one will work.