Why Car Keys Replacement Cost Should Be Your Next Big Obsession

Car Keys Replacement Cost

A few years ago, losing your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could take your spare key to a key cutting shop for an alternative that cost $10 or less.

Today, however the process is more complicated and costly. Learn more about the different types of car keys and how they will cost you to replace them.

Basic Key Fob

A key replacement car fob is both an remote as well as a key in one. It's a tiny plastic device that has one or more buttons that you push to unlock the doors and trunk, open the hatchback, open the windows, and perhaps start the car. The key fob has an electronic chip inside that communicates with the car's onboard system to manage functions like the starter.

A basic key fob is typically made of standard plastic and uses a regular lock-and-key mechanism, like the one you'd find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob may cost between $50 and $100, but the actual price is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one.

You'll probably need to visit a dealer if your vehicle is newer than five years. Most newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or a key shop can usually do this for less however.

The cost of the fob you purchase can depend on the type of fob you have. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, whereas the most recent models typically have transponder keys or smart keys. Key fobs of both kinds can come with a range of features. They could include keyless entry, which locks and unlocks your car automatically or rolling codes that are changed frequently to keep thieves from stealing the data on the key fob.

Key fobs that are available online could be less expensive than ones you can buy at the dealer, but they might not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that block their key fobs from interacting with third-party devices. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob, if it's brought in, however it's very likely that it won't function.

Check your owner's manual or search the manufacturer's website to find information on programming your specific model's key fob. You should try to do this yourself first before paying for a locksmith or going to the dealer. You may also want to check the warranty on your vehicle and the auto-insurance policy to see whether they cover the cost of a new key fob.

Transponder Key

Most modern cars utilize keys of a different type, known as a transponder key. These keys contain a chip embedded in the key's head that sends a signal to the vehicle when it is placed in 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 because a transponder chip prevents the car from starting if it does not receive the right signal from the key. This technology was designed to reduce car theft because it is virtually impossible to duplicate these keys without the proper equipment.

Many vehicles are also equipped with immobilizers that prevent the vehicle from starting when they are operated by keys that do not have a transponder. However, thieves have also developed ways to steal and break into vehicles that have transponder keys.

A locksmith can assist you replace your transponder key if it's damaged or lost. They will require details about your car including the VIN number and model. They will then cut a new one or program the current one to your car's security system. This is a costlier procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys.

Some stores for automotive like AutoZone or Walmart can cut and duplicate transponder keys but they aren't capable of reprogramming chips in the key. It is best to call an experienced and reliable locksmith service to ensure that a professional will be capable of handling the job.

Before the invention of this technology it was fairly easy for someone to make duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a vehicle. This technique was used to steal cars and it allowed criminals drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced this crime, but not entirely eliminated it.

If you need a replacement transponder keys or you've lost yours, the best option is to call an expert and have them create it for you. The cost will be higher than a standard key, but it's a safer and better way to ensure that your vehicle cannot be started by someone else.

Keyless Entry System

As increasing numbers of people want convenience, security and safety keys for their cars have become a common feature. These transmitters are able to open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, or even start the engine without the physical key. They are easily tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. That means they're expensive to replace, and you may require fob programming to connect your new one with your vehicle.

A basic key fob costs about ten dollars to get cut at a hardware store, but the most recent smart keys can be expensive if you want to purchase the keys and have them programmed. Based on the make and model you could expect to pay between $200-$500 to replace a fob plus the cost of cutting it and programming it to your car.

Certain advanced car key systems allow you to make use of your smartphone as an actual key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle via the app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn on and off your lights, activate your parking break, and perform other tasks depending on the distance you're to your car. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas, or have children and are worried about your children being in the car without supervision.

Some of these systems could be expensive, but they are more secure than a standard car key. They monitor your location to stop you from locking or opening the car if you are far from. Certain of these systems can assist you in finding your car in a garage, and others can alert you if you close or Car Keys Replacement Cost open the doors.

These kinds of systems can also be beneficial to businesses, such as property managers who oversee vacation rentals or office spaces. These systems allow 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 feel they must visit a dealer when keys are missing. They'll need to provide proof of ownership, and sometimes keys must be purchased from the manufacturer, which could take a few days. A dealer can usually do the job more quickly than a locksmith, and could even charge less.

The key fob might need to be programmed for your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by reading the owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors, as well as turning lights and other electronics on and off. It could even involve pressing a combination of buttons which acts as a code. Often, this can be done by the driver, but it is better to have a technician do it.

The year, make and model of the vehicle will have an impact on the price, too. Modern cars feature advanced transponder chips that require pairing with the vehicle by a locksmith or dealer and the process could be more expensive.

A dealer who sells a specific brand of car keys replacement near me will be more likely to know how to replace keys for the model. Some of the bigger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler, have many models and are familiar with keys.

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 in production. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are some of the older companies that have stopped producing keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. The keys are typically changed. This is more expensive and difficult than replacing the key.

It is best to have your spare key cloned by a professional rather than buying another one from a dealer. You will not have to pay the more expensive rates for after-hours or weekend services. If you do lose your keys you can rest assured that the key cloned will function.