Car Keys Replacement Cost

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

Nevertheless the process has gotten more complicated and costly. Learn more about the different types of keys for cars 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 key in one. It's a small, plastic device with a button 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 embedded that communicates with your car's onboard systems for controlling functions such as the starter.

A basic key fob is generally constructed of plastic that utilizes a standard lock-and-key mechanism, such as the one you'd find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost between $50-$100, but you'll pay more if you require a replacement for one that has been lost or damaged.

If your car was built within the last five years, the chances are that you'll need to visit the dealer to get a replacement fob as many newer vehicles require special equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith or a key shop is usually able to do this for less.

The cost of your fob can also depend on the type of fob you have. Older cars use mechanical keys, while the latest models use transponder keys. Both of these types can have a wide range of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the vehicle in a controlled manner to changing codes on a regular basis to prevent thieves from taking and stealing the data from your key fob.

Online key fobs may be cheaper than those you can purchase from a dealer, but they might not be compatible with your car. Certain manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru, have security chips inside their key fobs that block them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealers will program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in however there's a high chance it won't continue to work.

You can find out more about programming your key fob by looking up the site of the manufacturer or in your owner's guide. It's worth trying this yourself prior to going to the dealership or paying an expert locksmith. You could also check your car's warranty, roadside assistance and auto-insurance coverage to see if these will cover the cost of a replacement key fob.

Transponder Key

The majority of newer cars have keys of a different type, known as a transponder key. The keys have a chip embedded in the head of the key which transmits a signal the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and begin the engine. This key is more secure than the traditional flat metal keys because the transponder chip prevents cars from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was developed to stop car theft since it is nearly impossible to duplicate these keys without the proper equipment.

Many vehicles are also equipped with immobilizers which prevent them from being started if they are used with keys that do not have a transponder. However, mobile car key replacement near me criminals have also come up with methods to steal and break into cars with transponder keys.

A locksmith car key replacement cost will usually be able to assist you in replacing a lost or damaged transponder key. They'll need the details of your particular vehicle, including the VIN number along with the year, model and year. They will then either program your current key to the car's system, or cut a new one. This is a more expensive procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys.

Some auto stores such as AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and copy transponder keys but may not be capable of reprogramming chips in the key. If you want to be sure that a professional will be able to handle the job, seek out a reputable and experienced locksmith business.

Before the invention of this technology it was quite simple to create duplicate car keys and then hot wire a car. This technique was used to steal cars and allowed criminals drive away with stolen vehicles. The introduction of transponder keys has drastically reduced this crime however, it's not completely eliminated.

You can get an expert to handle this for you if you require an alternative transponder key or if you've lost one. It will cost more than a standard key however it's a safer and better option to ensure that someone else is unable to start your car.

Keyless Entry System

Car key fobs are becoming an everyday feature in cars, mobile car key replacement near me as more and more people seek convenience, safety and security. These little transmitters can unlock doors, activate the panic alarm and open the trunk and even start your engine without having to carry a physical key in your hands. They can be thrown around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. It's costly to replace them, and you might have to program your new fob to pair it with your vehicle.

A basic key fob will cost around ten dollars to cut at an hardware store, but the latest smart keys aren't cheap if you're looking to purchase them and have them programmed. Based on the make and model, you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 and $500 for a replacement fob plus the cost of cutting it and programming it to your vehicle.

Certain advanced car key systems allow you to use your smartphone as a key. Using the app on your phone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car and you can switch on and off, as well as activate your parking brake, and perform other things depending on the proximity of your car. These are perfect for those who reside in urban areas or if you have children and worry about children leaving the car unattended.

Certain of these systems may be costly, but they are more secure than a standard car key. They track your location to prevent you from accidentally locking or starting the car if you're far from. Some of these systems will help you locate your vehicle in a garage, while others will notify you when you close or open the doors.

These systems are also useful for businesses like property managers who oversee offices or vacation rentals. These systems permit them to check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. They can also make sure that only those with permissions are permitted to enter and exit.

Dealership

Some people believe that they should go to the dealer if keys are missing. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership, and could purchase the key from the manufacturer. This could take several days. But a dealer will typically complete the task for you quicker than locksmiths, and might have lower prices, too.

It is likely that the key fob will need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by referring to your owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors, as well as turning lights and other electronics on and off. It could also involve pressing a combination of buttons that acts like a code. Often, this can be performed by the driver, but it is better to have a technician perform it.

The year the car was manufactured, its model and make of the vehicle will impact the price as well. Modern cars feature sophisticated transponder chips which will need to be paired with the vehicle by a locksmith or dealer, and the process can be more expensive.

A dealer who sells a particular model will be more likely to know how to change keys for that model. Some of the larger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan, have a large number of models and are more familiar with the keys for those models.

Other brands are more difficult to work with. This includes a few of the older companies that have closed, or are old enough to have keys that are no longer in production. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. These keys are usually modified. This is more expensive and time-consuming than replacing the key.

In general, if you have a spare key it is usually best to duplicate it at an expert instead of obtaining an alternative from the dealer. That way you can avoid paying the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. If you do lose your keys you can rest easy knowing that the key cloned will work.