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Car Keys Replacement Cost

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys to your car was not a problem. You could take your spare key to a key cutting shop for an alternative that cost $10 or less.

Today, however, the process can be more complicated and expensive. Find out more about the various types of keys for cars and what they'll cost you to replace.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob is an remote control as well as an actual key in one. It's a small, plastic device with a button that you can press to unlock doors or hatchbacks, open the trunk, lower windows and, possibly, even start your car. The key fob also comes with an electronic chip inside that communicates with the car's onboard system to manage functions like the starter.

Key fobs for basic use are typically made of standard plastic and are fitted with a standard lock and key mechanism. These are similar to the ones found on old Pontiacs or Saturns. A basic key fob may cost anywhere from $50 to $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 vehicle is newer than five years. A lot of newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. Locksmiths or key shops can usually do this for less however.

The kind of fob you own can also impact the cost. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, whereas the latest models usually have transponder keys or smart keys. Both of these types come with a variety of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the vehicle in a controlled manner to changing codes on a regular basis to stop thieves from stealing and using the data from your key fob.

It's possible to purchase an aftermarket key fob for less than the price you'd pay at a dealership however they might not work with your car. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that block their key fobs from interacting with third party devices. Some dealers can program an aftermarket key fob, if it's brought in, but it's highly unlikely that it will function.

You can find information about programming your key fob by searching the site of the manufacturer or in the owner's guide. You should try to do this yourself before hiring a locksmith or going to the dealer. You could also check your car's warranty, auto-insurance policy and roadside assistance coverage to see if these will cover the cost of a replacement key fob.

Transponder Key

Most modern cars utilize keys that are known as a transponder key. They have embedded chips in the head that transmits an electronic message to the vehicle once it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and launching the engine. This key type is more secure than traditional flat metal keys due to a transponder chip prevents the car from starting if it doesn't receive a signal from the correct key. This technology was created to prevent theft of cars because it is virtually impossible to duplicate these keys without the proper equipment.

Many cars are also equipped with immobilizers which prevent them from being started when they are operated with a key that is not transponder. Car thieves have developed methods of stealing cars with transponder key systems.

A locksmith can help you to replace your transponder keys if it's damaged or stolen. They will need to have the details about your specific vehicle, including the VIN number along with the year, model and year. They will then 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.

Some automotive stores, like AutoZone and Walmart are also capable of cutting and re-copying the transponder key, however they may not be in a position to reprogram the chip in the key. It is recommended to contact an experienced and reputable locksmith company if you want to be sure that a professional will be able to handle the task.

Before the advent of technology like this, it was relatively simple to create duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a car. This method of stealing cars was very frequent and allowed criminals to get into and drive off with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced this crime, but not entirely eliminated it completely.

You can get an expert to handle this for you if you need a replacement transponder key, or if you lost yours. It will cost more than a standard key but it's a safer and better alternative to ensure that someone else is unable to start your car.

Keyless Entry System

Car key fobs are now a standard feature of vehicles as more people want convenience, safety and security. These tiny transmitters can open doors, activate the alarm that sounds a panic, open the trunk, and even start your engine without having the physical key in your hand. 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. It's expensive to replace them, and you may have to program your new fob to pair it with your vehicle.

The cost of cutting a basic fob for a key at an hardware store is around 10 dollars. However, the newest smart keys can be costly when you need to purchase them as well as programme them. Depending on your vehicle model and make you could expect to pay between $200-$500 for a replacement fob, plus the cost of cutting it and programming it to your car key replacements.

There are also more advanced car key systems that let you make use of your smartphone as a key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle by using an app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, turn on your parking break, as well as perform other tasks depending on the proximity to your car. These apps are ideal for those who live in urban areas, or even parents who are worried about your children leaving the car unattended.

Some of these systems could be expensive, but 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 away. Some of these systems can help you locate your car in a garage and others can alert you if you open or close the doors.

These systems are also beneficial for businesses such as property managers who manage offices or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to monitor access rights of guests as well as cleaning staff and maintenance personnel, while ensuring that only those with the right permissions can get into and out of the space.

Dealership

Some people may think that they must go to the dealer if their keys disappear. They will need to show proof of ownership, and occasionally keys must be ordered from the manufacturer, which could take several days. But a dealer can also typically complete the task for you quicker than locksmiths, and Car Keys Replacement Cost may have cheaper prices, as well.

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 the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, and switching off or on lights and other electronic devices. It can even require pressing a set of buttons that functions as an electronic code. This can often be done by the drivers, however it's best to let a technician manage it.

The cost is also dependent on the year, make and type of vehicle. The cost of the service may be affected by the year, model and model of the vehicle.

A dealer who sells a particular model will be more likely to know how to replace keys for that model. Some of the larger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a huge number of models and are more familiar with the keys for the models they sell.

Other brands are more 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 in production. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are some of the more established companies that have stopped producing keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these types of keys have to be reprogrammed and can be more complicated and costly than replacing the key itself.

It is recommended to have your spare key cloned by a professional rather than getting a new one from the dealer. You can avoid paying the more expensive rates for after-hours or weekend services. If you lose your keys, you can rest assured that the cloned key will work.