Car Keys Replacement Cost

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

Today, however, the process is more complicated and costly. Find out about the various kinds and costs of keys for cars.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob can be described as an electronic remote control and key in one. It's a small, plastic device with a button you can push to unlock doors, open the hatchback or trunk, open windows, roll them down and, possibly, even start your car. The key fob has an electronic chip embedded that communicates with the car's onboard systems to regulate functions such as the starter.

Basic key fobs are made from standard plastic, and utilize a standard lock and key mechanism. They're identical to those found on old Pontiacs as well as Saturns. A basic key fob could cost between $50 and $100, but the actual cost comes when you have to replace a damaged or lost one.

You'll likely have to visit the dealer if your car is newer than five years. Many newer cars require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith car key replacement cost or key shop typically can do this for less, however.

The type of fob you have will also affect the price. Older vehicles have mechanical key fobs while the most recent models utilize transponder keys. Both types of keys come with a variety of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle instantly to rolling codes that are updated regularly to prevent thieves from taking and using your car's key fob data.

It's possible to buy an aftermarket key fob for less than what you'd pay at the dealership, but these may not work with your car. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from working with third party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket key fob if it's brought in, but it's very likely that it won't function.

Read the owner's manual for your model or search the manufacturer's website for information on programming your specific model's key fob. It's worth trying this yourself before going to the dealership or paying a locksmith to do it. You could also check your car's warranty, roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance policy to see if they will cover the cost of a replacement key fob.

Transponder Key

Most newer cars use keys that are known as transponder keys. They have a chip embedded into the head which transmits an information to the vehicle once it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and for starting the engine. This type of key is more secure than conventional flat metal keys due to transponder chips prevent the car from starting if it does not receive a signal from the correct key. This technology was developed to prevent theft of cars because it is almost impossible to duplicate keys without the appropriate equipment.

Additionally, many vehicles also come with immobilizer systems that stop them from starting if keys that are not transponder compatible are used. Car thieves have come up with methods of stealing cars with transponder key systems.

A locksmith is usually able to assist you in replacing a lost or damaged transponder key. They will need to have the details of your particular vehicle, including the VIN number, model and year. They can then either program your existing key to the car's system, or cut an entirely new one. This is a little more expensive than simply having a car dealership cut and program a replacement key.

Some auto stores such as AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and duplicate transponder keys however, they may not be capable of reprogramming chips in the key. If you want to ensure that a professional is able to complete the job, seek out a reputable and experienced locksmith business.

Before the advent of technology like this it was fairly easy for someone to make duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a cheapest car key replacement (redirect to Cotkan). 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 it isn't entirely eliminated it.

If you need a new transponder key, or have lost yours, the best solution is to contact an expert and cheapest car Key replacement let them do it for you. It's more expensive than a standard key however it's a safer and more secure alternative to ensure that someone else cannot start your car.

Keyless Entry System

As increasing numbers of people seek security, convenience, and safety, car key fobs are now a standard feature. These little transmitters can unlock doors, set off the alarm that sounds a panic and open the trunk and even start your engine without having the physical key in your hand. They can also be subject to some abuse from being tossed around, and they are more likely to be lost or stolen than traditional keys. That means they're expensive to replace, and you might need fob programming to pair your new one with your vehicle.

A standard key fob can cost around ten dollars to get cut at the hardware store, however the latest smart keys can be expensive if you want to purchase them and have them programmed. Based on your car's model and make you could expect to pay between $200-$500 for a replacement fob, in addition to the cost of having it cut and programmed to your vehicle.

Some advanced car key systems let you use your smartphone as a key. By using the app on your phone, you can remote lock or unlock your car, and you can also switch on and off, turn off your parking brake, and do other things based on your proximity to the car. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas or if you have children and are worried about your children being in the car without supervision.

Certain of these systems are costly however, they're more secure than a regular car key as they track your location and prevent you from accidentally locking the car or turning off the engine if you're too far away. Some of these systems can assist you in finding your vehicle in a garage, while others can alert you if you open or close the doors.

These systems can also be useful for businesses such as property managers who oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems let them control access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those who have permissions are allowed in and out.

Dealership

Some people may think that they must go to the dealership when keys go missing. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership, and could order the key from the manufacturer. This could take several days. But a dealer will usually get the job done for you much faster than locksmiths, and might have lower prices, too.

The key fob might require programming for your vehicle. This can be done either at the dealer or by reading the owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors, as well as turning lights and other electronic components on and off. It could also involve pressing a series of buttons that acts like an electronic code. This is usually handled by the driver, but it's always better to let a technician handle it.

The cost will also be affected by the year, model and year of vehicle. Modern cars come with advanced transponder chips that require pairing with the vehicle by a locksmith near me car key replacement or a dealer and the process could be more costly.

A dealer that sells a specific brand of vehicle is more likely to be able to replace the keys for that particular vehicle. Some of the larger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan, have a large number of models and are more familiar with the keys that are used for those models.

Certain brands are difficult to work with. This includes some of the more established companies that have shut down, or are old enough to have keys that are no longer being produced. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn, and Eagle. The keys are typically modified. This can be more expensive and difficult than replacing the key.

In general, if you have a spare key, it is best to get it copied by an expert instead of obtaining an alternative from the dealer. You will not have to pay the higher prices for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys you are assured that the cloned key will function.