Car Keys Replacement Cost

It wasn’t that long ago that losing keys to cars was not a problem. You could take your spare keys to key cutters and purchase an additional one for $10 or less.

However, the process has become more complicated and costly. Learn more about the various kinds of keys for cars and what they will cost you to replace them.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob is an electronic remote control and a key in one. It’s a small, plastic piece with a button you can push to unlock doors, open the hatchback or trunk, lower windows, and possibly even start the vehicle. The key fob also comes with an embedded electronic chip that communicates with the car’s onboard system to control functions such as 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 the same as those found on old Pontiacs as well as Saturns. A basic key fob may cost anywhere from $50 to $100, but the actual price is when you need to replace a damaged or lost car keys replacement cost one.

If your car was made in the last five years, chances that you’ll have to visit the dealer for a replacement car key fob fob as many newer vehicles require special equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith or a key shop will typically be in a position to provide this service for less.

The type of fob you’re using can also impact the cost. Older cars have mechanical key fobs, whereas the latest models usually have transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of keys are able to have a range of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the car in a controlled manner to changing codes on a regular basis to deter thieves from intercepting and using the key fob information of your car.

You may be able to purchase an aftermarket key fob online at a lower cost than what you’d pay at a dealership however they might not work with your car. Certain manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips inside their key fobs that prevent them from working with third-party devices. Some dealerships can program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in, but there’s a good possibility that it won’t work.

Check your owner’s manual or visit the manufacturer’s website for more information about programming your particular model’s key fob. It is recommended to try this yourself first before paying for a locksmith or going to the dealer. You can also look into your vehicle’s warranty and auto-insurance policy to determine whether they will cover the cost of a brand new key fob.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are used in the majority of modern cars. They have a chip embedded in the key’s head that transmits a signal to the vehicle when it is inserted into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and for starting the engine. This type of key is more secure than standard flat metal keys because transponder chips prevent the car from starting if it does not receive a signal from the correct key. This technology was created to stop car replacement keys near me theft since it is nearly impossible to duplicate these keys without the proper equipment.

In addition, many cars also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting when the key is not transponder-compatible. Car thieves have developed ways to steal cars equipped with transponder key systems.

A locksmith is usually able to assist you in replacing the damaged or lost car keys replacement transponder key. They will require details about your car including the VIN number and model. They’ll either program your current key to the car’s system or cut a new one. This procedure is more expensive than simply getting a car dealership to cut and program a new key.

Some stores for automotive like AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and duplicate transponder keys but they aren’t capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. You should contact an experienced and reliable locksmith company if you want to ensure that a professional will be competent to complete the task.

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 allowed criminals drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced the risk of this crime, but it isn’t entirely eliminated it.

You can get an expert to handle this for you in the event that you require an alternative transponder key or if you’ve lost yours. The cost will be higher than a standard key, but it is a much safer and better method to ensure that your car cannot be started by someone else.

Keyless Entry System

As increasing numbers of people seek security, convenience, and safety keys for their cars are now a standard feature. These tiny devices can unlock doors, activate the panic alarm or open the trunk and even start your engine without having to carry a physical key in your hands. However, they also endure a lot of abuse from being used in a variety of ways, and they are more likely to get lost car key replacement or stolen than the metal keys. It’s expensive to replace keys, and you might have to program your new fob to connect it with your vehicle.

The cost of cutting a standard fob for a key at a hardware shop is around ten dollars. However, the latest smart keys can be costly if you must purchase them, as well as program them. You can expect to spend between $200 and $500 for an alternative key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed for your vehicle.

There are also more advanced car key systems that let you use your smartphone as a key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle via the app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, activate your parking break, and perform other tasks based on the proximity to your car. This is ideal for people who reside in urban areas, or if you have children and worry about children leaving the car unattended.

Some of these systems can be expensive however they’re also more secure than a standard car key because they can locate you and prevent you from locking the car or turning on the engine when you’re far away. Certain of these systems will help you locate your car in a garage and others can notify you when you close or open the doors.

These kinds of systems can also be beneficial for businesses, like property managers that oversee vacation rentals or office spaces. These systems can allow them to monitor access rights of guests, cleaning staff, and maintenance staff, as well as ensuring that only those with the appropriate permissions are allowed to get into and out of the space.

Dealership

Some people might feel that they have to visit a dealership if their keys disappear. The dealer will ask for proof of ownership and may request keys from the manufacturer. This could take several days. A dealer is usually able to complete the job more quickly than a locksmith and might even cost less.

It is likely that the key fob will require programming to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership, or by referring to the owner’s manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, as well as switching off and on lights and other electronic devices. It could also involve pressing a series of buttons which acts as a code. Often, this can be performed by the driver however, it is best to have a technician do it.

The year, make and model of the vehicle will have an impact on the cost as well. Newer cars have sophisticated transponder chips which will require pairing with the vehicle by a locksmith dealer and the process could be more expensive.

A dealer who sells a particular model will be more likely to have the knowledge to replace keys for that model. Some of the biggest manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan, have a large number of models, and are more acquainted with the keys that are used for those models.

Some brands are harder to work with. Some of the older brands that have shut down or that are old enough that they no longer produce keys are included. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are a few of the more established companies that do not produce keys anymore. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these kinds of keys have to be reprogrammed, which can be more difficult and expensive than replacing the key itself.

If you have a spare key it is usually best to have it cloned at a specialist instead of getting an exchange from the dealer. You can avoid paying the more expensive rates for after-hours or weekend services. Then, if you do lose your keys you can rest easy knowing that the key cloned will function.