Car Keys Replacement Cost

It wasn't that long ago that losing keys to cars was not a major issue. You could take your spare to an a key cutter and buy an additional one for $10 or less.

Nowadays, however, the process can be more complicated and expensive. Find out more about the different types of car keys and how they'll cost you to replace.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob is both a remote car key replacement and key in one. It's a tiny plastic device that has one or more buttons that you push to unlock the doors and open the trunk or hatchback, roll down the windows, and possibly start the car. The key fob also has an electronic chip inside that communicates with the car's onboard system to manage functions like the starter.

A basic key fob is generally made of standard plastic and uses a regular lock-and-key mechanism, such as the one you'd find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost anything from $50 to $100, but the real cost comes when you have to replace a damaged or lost one.

If your car key replacement service near me was built within the last five years, the chances are that you'll need to go to the dealership for a replacement fob, as many newer vehicles require special equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith shop or key shop will typically be capable of doing this for less.

The type of fob you have will also affect the price. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, while the latest models usually have transponder keys or smart keys. Both are able to have a range of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically to changing codes on a regular basis to deter thieves from intercepting and using your car's key fob data.

You might be able to buy an aftermarket key fob at a lower cost than what you'd pay at a dealership however, they may not work with your vehicle. Some manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips inside their key fobs, which prevent them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealerships can program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in however there's a high chance it won't continue to work.

Go through your owner's manual or search the manufacturer's website to find information on programming your specific model's key fob. You should try to do this yourself before hiring an expert locksmith or visiting the dealer. You could also check your car's warranty, roadside assistance and auto-insurance coverage to determine if they cover the costs of a replacement key fob.

Transponder Key

Most newer cars use keys of a different type, known as a transponder key. They have an embedded chip in the key's head that sends a signal to the vehicle when it is inserted into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and start the engine. This key is more secure than the traditional flat metal key because the transponder chip blocks the car from starting without the proper signal. This technology was developed to stop car theft since it is nearly impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the appropriate equipment.

Many cars are also fitted with immobilizers which prevent them from starting when they are operated with keys that are not transponder. However, thieves have also developed ways to break into and steal vehicles that have transponder keys.

A locksmith can help replace your transponder key if it is damaged or lost. They'll need the details of your particular vehicle, such as the VIN number, model and year. They will then either program your existing key to the car's system or cut an entirely new one. This process is a bit more expensive than simply getting a car key replacement near me dealership to cut and program a new key.

Some auto stores such as AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and copy transponder keys, but may not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. You should contact an experienced and reliable locksmith firm to be sure that a professional is capable of handling the job.

Before the invention of this technology it was quite easy for someone to make duplicate car keys and then hot wire a vehicle. This technique was used to steal cars and permitted criminals to steal stolen vehicles. The advent of transponder keys has greatly reduced the likelihood of this happening, but it is not completely eliminated.

You can contact an expert to handle this for you if you require an extra transponder key or if you've lost one. The cost will be more than a standard key, however it's a safer and more secure method to ensure that your vehicle cannot be started by someone else.

Keyless Entry System

Car key fobs are now a standard feature in vehicles as more people want convenience, security, and security. These tiny devices can unlock doors, set off the alarm that sounds a panic and open the trunk and even start your engine without needing the physical key in your hands. However, they also endure a lot of abuse from being tossed around, and are more likely to get lost or stolen than the metal keys. That means they're expensive to replace, and you might need fob programming to pair the new key with your vehicle.

A basic key fob costs ten or so dollars to cut at an hardware store, but the most recent smart keys aren't cheap when you want to purchase the keys and have them programmed. Based on your car's model and make you could expect to shell out between $200-$500 for a replacement car keys cost fob, and 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 an actual key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle remotely using the app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, activate your parking break, and do other tasks depending 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 children leaving the car unattended.

Some of these systems are costly however, they're more secure than a standard car key since they track your location and prevent you from accidentally locking your car or turning the engine on when you're far away. Certain systems will help you locate your car in a garage, and others can notify you when you open or close the doors.

These systems are also useful for businesses like property managers who manage vacation rentals or offices. These systems allow them to monitor access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those with permissions are allowed to enter and exit the premises.

Dealership

Some people feel they must visit a dealer when keys are missing. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership and purchase keys from the manufacturer. This could take several days. A dealer is usually able to complete the job quicker than a locksmith, and may even charge less.

It is likely that the key fob will still require programming to your vehicle. This can be done either at the dealership or by looking up the owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors, as well as turning lights and other electronics on and off. It could even require pressing a series of buttons that function as an electronic code. Most of the time, this is done by the driver, but it is better to have a technician handle it.

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

A dealer that sells a specific model of car is more likely know how to replace keys for that vehicle. Some of the biggest manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a huge number of models, and are more familiar with the keys that are used for the specific models.

Some brands are harder to work with. This includes some of the older firms that have been shut down or are old enough to have keys that are no longer in production. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are among the more established companies that do not produce keys anymore. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these types of keys require reprogramming and can be more complicated and costly than replacing the key itself.

It is recommended to have your spare key cloned by a specialist rather than buying an entirely new one from a dealer. You will not have to pay the higher rates for after-hours and weekend services. If you do lose your keys, you can rest assured that the key cloned will work.