Car Keys Replacement Cost

Not long ago, misplacing your keys to your car wasn't a big deal. You could bring your spare key to a key cutting shop for an alternative that cost $10 or less.

However the process has become more complex and expensive. Learn about the various types and costs of keys for cars.

Basic Key Fob

Key fobs are an remote as well as a key in one. It's a small, plastic device with a button you can press to unlock doors or hatchbacks, open the trunk, lower windows and, possibly, even start your car. The key fob comes with an electronic chip embedded that communicates with your car's onboard systems to control functions like the starter.

A basic key fob is typically constructed of plastic that uses a regular lock-and-key mechanism, such as the kind you might find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob will cost anywhere between $50 and $100, but you'll pay more if you need to replace one that has been damaged or lost.

You'll probably need to visit the dealer if your vehicle is more than five years old. Many newer cars require special equipment to code and program new keys. Locksmiths or key shops can usually do this for less, though.

The cost of the fob you purchase can also depend on the type you own. Older vehicles use mechanical key fobs, whereas the most recent models typically have transponder keys or smart keys. Key fobs of both kinds can come with a variety of features. They could include keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically or rolling codes that are updated regularly to prevent thieves from intercepting the data on the key fob.

It's possible to purchase an aftermarket key fob online at a lower cost than what you'd pay at the dealer however, they may not work 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 dealers can program an aftermarket key fob, if it's brought in, however it's likely that it won't function.

Check your owner's manual or search the manufacturer's website for more information on programming your specific model's key fob. It is recommended to try this yourself before hiring an expert locksmith or visiting the dealer. You can also look at your vehicle's warranty, roadside assistance and auto-insurance policy to see if they cover the costs of a replacement fob for your key.

Transponder Key

Most newer cars use a type of key called a transponder key. They have an embedded chip in the head which transmits an information to the vehicle after it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and starting the engine. This type of key is more secure than conventional flat metal keys due to transponder chips stop the car from starting if it fails to receive a signal from the correct key. This technology was designed to stop car theft since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the proper equipment.

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

A locksmith can help you replace your transponder key if it is damaged or lost. They will need the information about your vehicle, such as the VIN number and model. They will then either program your existing key to the car's computer system or cut a new one. This process is a bit more expensive than cutting a key from a dealership and program a new key.

Some stores for automotive, such as AutoZone and Walmart, are also capable of cutting and copying the transponder key, however they may not be able to reprogram the chip in the key. If you want to ensure that a professional is able to complete the task, you should seek out a reputable and experienced locksmith business.

It was fairly easy to create a duplicate key for a car and then wire a vehicle prior to the advent of this modern technology. This technique was used to steal cars, and it allowed criminals to drive away with stolen vehicles. The introduction of the transponder key has greatly reduced this activity but it's not completely eliminated.

You can get an expert to handle this for you in the event that you require an extra transponder key or if you've lost yours. The cost will be higher than a traditional key but it is a much safer and better way to ensure that your vehicle can't be started by anyone else.

Keyless Entry System

Car key fobs are now a standard feature of vehicles as more people seek convenience, safety and security. These devices can open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, or even start the engine without an actual key. They can also endure a lot of abuse from being used in a variety of ways, and they're more likely to get lost or stolen than traditional keys. It's expensive to replace keys, and you might require programming your new fob to pair it with your vehicle.

The cost of cutting a basic fob for a key at an hardware store is around 10 dollars. However, the newest smart keys can be costly if you have to buy them, as well as program them. Based on the model and make you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $500 for a replacement car key costs fob, plus the cost of having it cut and programmed to your car.

Some sophisticated car key systems allow you to use your smartphone as keys. You can lock or unlock your vehicle by using an app on your phone. You can also turn on and off your lights, turn on your parking break, and do other things based on the proximity to the vehicle. These are great for people who reside in urban areas or if you're a parent that's worried about your kids leaving the car unattended.

Some of these systems can be expensive however they're also more secure than a standard car key because they can locate you and prevent you from accidentally locking your car or turning the engine on if you're too far away. They can also assist you to find your car in garages that have parking spaces and can even warn you if the doors are open or closed.

These kinds of systems could also be beneficial to businesses, such as property managers who oversee vacation rentals or office spaces. These systems let them check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. They can also make sure that only those who have permissions are allowed to enter and exit the premises.

Dealership

Some people may feel that they must visit a dealership if their keys disappear. The dealer will request proof of ownership and order the key from the manufacturer. This could take several days. A dealer will usually complete the job faster than a locksmith and might even charge less.

It is likely that the key fob will require programming to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by reading your 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. Most of the time, this is performed by the driver, but it is always better to have a technician do it.

The year the car was manufactured, its model and make of the car 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 particular model will be more likely to be able to change keys for the model. Some of the biggest manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a wide variety of models and are more acquainted with the keys for the models they sell.

Other brands are more difficult 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 listed. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. These keys are usually modified. This can be more expensive and time-consuming than replacing the key.

It is recommended to get your spare key replacement for car copied by a specialist rather than purchasing an entirely new 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 assured that the duplicate will function.