Car Keys Replacement Cost It wasn't too long ago that losing keys to your car was not a big issue. You could take your spare key to a key cutter for a new one that cost less than $10. Today, however the process can be more complicated and expensive. Read on to learn about the different types of keys for cars and how they'll cost you to replace them. Basic Key Fob Key fobs are an electronic remote and a key in one. It's a small, plastic piece with a button can be pushed to open doors and hatchbacks, open the trunk, open windows, roll them down and maybe even start your car. The key fob has a built-in electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard computer system to control functions like the starter. A basic key fob is usually made of standard plastic and utilizes a standard lock-and-key mechanism, like the one you'd find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob may cost anywhere from $50 to $100, but the true cost comes when you have to replace a damaged or lost one. If your car was manufactured within the last five years, chances that you'll have to go to the dealership for a replacement fob as many newer vehicles require special equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith or a key shop will typically be capable of doing this for less. The cost of your fob could also depend on the type you have. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, whereas modern models usually come with transponder keys or smart keys. Both can have a wide range of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the car instantly to rolling codes that change regularly to deter thieves from intercepting and stealing your car's key fob data. It's possible to purchase an aftermarket key fob for less than the price you'd pay at the dealer however they might not work with your car. Certain manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips inside their key fobs that block them from working with third-party devices. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob when it's purchased, but it's highly unlikely that it will work. Go through your owner's manual or search the manufacturer's website for information about programming your particular model's key fob. You should try to do this yourself first before paying an expert locksmith or visiting the dealer. You could also check the warranty of your vehicle, the roadside assistance and auto-insurance coverage to see if these cover the costs of a replacement key fob. Transponder Key Transponder keys are found in the majority of newer automobiles. These keys have an embedded chip in the head that sends an electronic message to the vehicle when it is inserted in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and for starting the engine. This key is more secure than the conventional flat metal key due to the transponder chip prevents cars from starting without the correct signal. This technology was created to stop car theft since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the appropriate equipment. Many vehicles are also equipped with immobilizers which prevent them from starting when they are operated with keys that do not have a transponder. Car thieves have developed methods to steal vehicles with transponder key systems. A locksmith can usually assist you in replacing the damaged or lost transponder key. They will require details of your vehicle including the VIN number and model. They will then either program the key you have 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 stores for automotive like AutoZone or Walmart can cut and copy transponder keys but may not be capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. If you want to be sure that a professional is able to complete the task, you should seek out a reputable and experienced locksmith company. Before the invention of technology like this it was quite easy to make a duplicate car key and then hot wire a vehicle. This method was used to steal cars and it allowed criminals to drive away with stolen vehicles. The advent of the transponder key has greatly reduced the likelihood of this happening however, it's not completely eliminated. If you need a replacement transponder key or you have lost yours, the best choice is to call an expert and let them make it for you. It's more expensive than a standard key however it's a safer and more reliable option to ensure that anyone else cannot start your car. Keyless Entry System As more and more people demand convenience, security and safety keys for their cars have become a standard feature. These transmitters can open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, or start the engine without an actual key. They can also endure a lot of abuse from being used in a variety of ways, and they're more likely to get lost or stolen than the metal keys. It's costly to replace them, and you may have to program your new fob to pair it with your vehicle. A standard key fob can cost ten or so dollars to get cut at an hardware store, but the latest smart keys can be expensive if you want to purchase them and then have them programmed. Based on cars keys replacement and model you could expect to pay between $200-$500 to replace a fob and the cost of cutting it and programming it to your car. There are additionally more advanced car key systems that allow you to use your smartphone as a key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle via the app on your smartphone. You can also turn on and off your lights, activate your parking break, and do other tasks depending on how close you are to your vehicle. These are great for people who live in urban areas, or even parents who are concerned about your children leaving the car without supervision. Some of these systems can be costly, but they are more secure than a standard car key. They monitor your location to stop you from locking or opening the car when you are too 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 can also be useful for companies such as property managers who oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems permit them to check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those with permissions are permitted to enter and exit. Dealership Some people may feel that they need to go to the dealership when keys go missing. They'll have to show proof of ownership, and sometimes the key has to be ordered from the manufacturer which can take a few days. However, a dealer can typically complete the task for you faster than locksmiths, and they might have lower prices, too. It is likely that the key fob will require programming to your vehicle. This can be done either at the dealership or by reading the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, as well as switching off and on lights and other electronic devices. It may even require pressing a series of buttons that act as a code. Often, this can be done by the driver, but it is always better to have a technician perform it. The year, make and model of the car will impact the price, too. The cost of the service can also be affected by the year, model and model of the vehicle. A dealer who sells a specific brand of car is more likely to know how to replace keys for that particular vehicle. Some of the larger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have several models and are familiar with keys. Other brands are more difficult to work with. This includes a few of the older firms that have been 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. Typically, these types of keys have to be reprogrammed, which can be more difficult and more expensive than replacing the key itself. It is best to get your spare key copied by a professional rather than getting an entirely new one from a 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 one will work.
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