Car Keys Replacement Cost

Not long ago, misplacing your car keys was not a big deal. You could bring your spare key to a key cutter and get the replacement key for $10 or less.

Nevertheless, the process has become more complicated and costly. Learn more about the various kinds of keys for cars and how they can cost you to replace.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob is both an electronic remote and a key in one. It's a small, plastic device with a button that can be pushed to open doors or hatchbacks, open the trunk, lower windows, and possibly even start the vehicle. The key fob is equipped with an electronic chip built in that communicates with your car's onboard systems for controlling functions like the starter.

A basic key fob is generally made of standard plastic and uses a regular lock-and-key mechanism, like the kind you might find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost anywhere between $50-$100, but you'll be charged more if you need to replace one that's damaged or lost.

You'll likely need 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 or a key shop typically can do this for less, though.

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

You might be able to buy an aftermarket key fob online for less than what you'd pay at the dealership however, they may not be compatible with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru, include security chips in their key fobs, which prevent them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealers can program an aftermarket key fob when it's brought in, but it's highly unlikely that it will function.

You can find out more about programming your key fob by searching the manufacturer's site or the owner's guide. It's worth trying this yourself before heading to the dealership or paying an expert locksmith. You can also check your car's warranty and auto insurance policy to determine whether they cover the cost of replacing a key fob.

Transponder Key

The majority of newer cars have keys that are known as transponder keys. These keys have embedded chips in the head that transmits a message to the vehicle once it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and for starting the engine. This key is more secure than the traditional flat metal key because the transponder chip blocks the car from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was developed to prevent theft of cars because it is nearly impossible to duplicate these keys without the right equipment.

Additionally, many vehicles also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting if the key is not transponder-compatible. However, thieves have also developed methods to gain access and steal vehicles that have transponder keys.

A locksmith will usually be able to assist you in replacing a lost or damaged transponder key. They will need to have the information about your specific vehicle, such as the VIN number as well as the model and year. They'll either program the key you have to the car's system or cut a new one. This procedure is more expensive than simply having a car dealership cut and program a replacement key for car key.

Some auto stores such as AutoZone or Walmart can cut and copy transponder keys however, they may not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. It is best to call an experienced and reputable locksmith service to be sure that a professional will be able to handle the task.

It was quite simple to create duplicate keys for a mobile car key replacement near me and then hot-wire a vehicle before the advent of this new technology. This was a method used to steal cars and allowed criminals to drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have drastically reduced this crime, but not entirely eliminated it.

You can contact a professional to do this for you if you require a replacement car keys with chips transponder key, or if you've lost yours. It will cost more than a standard key, however it's a safer and more secure alternative to ensure that someone else will not be able to start your car.

Keyless Entry System

As increasing numbers of people want convenience, security and safety key fobs for cars have become a standard feature. These tiny devices can unlock doors, activate the alarm for panic or open the trunk and even start your car without having to carry a physical key in your hand. They can be thrown around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. That means they're expensive to replace, and you may require fob programming to connect the new key with your vehicle.

A standard key fob can cost about ten dollars to get cut at a hardware store, but the most recent smart keys aren't cheap when you need to buy them and have them programmed. Based on your car's model and make you could expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $500 for a replacement fob, plus the cost of cutting it and programming it to your car.

Certain advanced car key systems allow you to make use of your smartphone as keys. With the application on your phone, you can remote lock or unlock your car, and you can also turn your lights 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 live in urban areas or if you have kids and are worried about children leaving the car unattended.

Some of these systems could be expensive, but they are more secure than the standard car key. They keep track of your location to prevent you from accidentally locking or starting the car if you are far away. Some of these systems can help you locate your car in a garage and others can notify you when you open or close the doors.

These types of systems can also be beneficial to businesses, such as property managers that oversee office space or vacation rentals. These systems permit them to check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those who have permissions are allowed in and out.

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 could request keys from the manufacturer. This could take a few days. But a dealer will generally complete the task for you much faster than locksmiths, and they may offer lower prices too.

The key fob may still need to be programmed for your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by looking up the owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors and turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off. It could also require pressing a set of buttons that acts like the code. This is usually handled by the drivers, but it is always best to let an expert handle it.

The cost will also be affected by the year, model and year of vehicle. Newer cars have advanced transponder chips that need to be paired with the car by a locksmith dealer and the process may be more costly.

A dealer who sells a particular model of car is more likely to know how to replace keys for the model. Some of the biggest manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler, have many models and are well-versed in keys.

Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have shut down or that are old enough that they no longer manufacture keys are included. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. Typically, these keys require reprogramming and can be more complicated and costly than replacing the key itself.

It is recommended to get your spare key copied by a professional instead of purchasing a new one from a dealer. You will avoid paying higher prices for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys, you can be sure that the cloned one will work.