Car Keys Replacement Cost

In the past, losing your car keys was not an issue. You could bring your spare to key cutters and purchase an additional one for $10 or less.

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

Basic Key Fob

A key fob can be described as an electronic remote and a key in one. It's a small, plastic piece with a button can be pushed to open doors, open the hatchback or trunk, roll down windows, and possibly even start the vehicle. The key fob comes with an electronic chip embedded that communicates with the car's onboard systems for controlling functions such as the starter.

Basic key fobs are usually made of standard plastic and are fitted with a standard lock and key mechanism. These are the same as those that were used on the old Pontiacs and Saturns. A basic key fob can cost anywhere from $50 to $100, but the actual price is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one.

If your car was made within the last five years, the chances are that you'll need to visit the dealer for a replacement fob, since many modern cars require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or a key shop will usually be able to do this for less, though.

The type of fob you have can affect the price. Older cars use mechanical keys, while the latest models use transponder keys. Both types of keys are able to have a range of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically to rolling codes that change regularly to prevent thieves from taking and using your car's key fob data.

You might be able to buy an aftermarket key fob online at a lower cost than what you'd pay at the dealer, but these may not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru, have security chips in their key fobs that prevent them from working with third-party devices. Some dealers can program an aftermarket key fob when it's brought in, however it's very likely that it won't work.

Go through your owner's manual or go to the manufacturer's site to find information on programming your specific model's key fob. It's worth trying to do this yourself prior to going to the dealership or paying an expert locksmith to do it. You could also check your vehicle's warranty, roadside assistance and auto-insurance coverage to determine if they will cover the cost of a replacement key fob.

Transponder Key

The majority of newer cars have a type of key called a transponder key. These keys contain an embedded chip in the head of the key that sends a signal to the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and for starting the engine. This key type is more secure than traditional flat metal keys because transponder chips prevent the car keys lost replacement from starting if it does not receive the right signal from the key. This technology was developed to stop car theft since it is nearly impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the right equipment.

Many cars are also fitted with immobilizers that prevent the vehicle from starting when they are operated by keys that do not have a transponder. Car thieves have come up with ways to steal cars equipped with transponder key systems.

A locksmith is usually able to assist you in replacing the damaged or lost transponder key. They'll need the details of your particular vehicle, including the VIN number as well as the model and year. Then, they'll either cut a new key or program the existing one to your car's system. This is a more costly procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys.

Some auto stores, such as AutoZone and Walmart, are also able to cut and copy the transponder keys, however they might not be able to reprogram the chip in the key. It is best to call an experienced and reputable locksmith company if you want to ensure that a professional is able to handle the task.

Before the advent of technology like this it was quite easy for someone to make duplicate car keys and then hot wire a car. This method of stealing cars was very frequent and allowed criminals to get into and drive away with stolen vehicles. The advent of transponder keys has greatly reduced this activity, but it is not completely eliminated.

If you require a new transponder key or you have lost yours, the best solution is to call an expert and let them make it for you. The cost will be higher than a traditional key however it's a safer and better method to ensure that your car cannot be started by someone else.

Keyless Entry System

As increasing numbers of people want security, convenience, and safety key fobs for cars have become a standard feature. These tiny devices can unlock doors, activate the alarm that sounds a panic and open the trunk and even start your engine without needing to carry a physical key in your hand. However, they also be subject to some abuse from being tossed around, and are more likely to get lost or stolen than metal keys. It's expensive to replace them, and you might have to program your new fob to pair it with your vehicle.

A basic key fob will cost about ten dollars to cut at the hardware store, however the most recent smart keys aren't cheap if you're looking to purchase the keys and have them programmed. You should expect to pay between $200 and $500 on the replacement key fob. This includes the cost to have it cut and programmed for your car.

Some advanced car key fob replacement near me key systems let you use your phone as keys. By using the app on your smartphone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car replacement key cost and you can switch your lights on and off, as well as activate your parking brake, and perform other things based on the proximity of your car. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas or if you have kids and are worried about your children being in the car without supervision.

Certain of these systems are costly however they're also more secure than a regular car keys replacements key since they track your location and prevent you from accidentally locking your car or turning off the engine in case you're not close enough. Some of these systems will help you locate your car in a garage and others will notify you when you open or close the doors.

These systems are also useful for businesses like property managers who oversee offices or vacation rentals. These systems can allow them to monitor access rights for guests cleaners, guests, and maintenance personnel, while ensuring that only those who have the appropriate permissions are allowed to get in and out of the space.

Dealership

Some people may feel that they must go to the dealership when keys go missing. They'll have to show proof of ownership, and occasionally keys must be purchased from the manufacturer, which could take a few days. A dealer can usually do the job more quickly than a locksmith and may even cost less.

It is likely that the key fob will still require programming to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealer or by consulting your owner's guide. It involves opening and shutting doors, and switching off or on lights and other electronic devices. It may even require pressing a number of buttons which act as a code. This can often be done by the drivers, however it's always better to let an expert manage it.

The cost is also dependent on the year, make and model of vehicle. Newer cars have high-tech transponder chips that will need to be paired with the car by a locksmith dealer and the process could be more expensive.

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

Certain brands are difficult to work with. Some of the more established brands that have been shut down or are old enough that they no longer produce keys are listed. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are among the older companies that have stopped producing keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. The keys are typically modified. This is more expensive and complicated than replacing the key.

If you have a spare key, it is usually best to have it cloned at a specialist instead of getting a replacement from the dealer. So, you don't have to worry about paying the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. If you lose your keys you are assured that the cloned one will function.