Car Keys Replacement Cost It wasn't that long ago that losing keys to your car was not a major issue. You could take your spare to a key cutter and get a new one for $10 or less. Today, however the process is more complicated and costly. Find out more about the various kinds of keys for cars and what they will cost you to replace them. Basic Key Fob Key fobs are an electronic remote control and a key in one. It's tiny, plastic device with a button that you can push to unlock doors or hatchbacks, open the trunk, lower windows, and possibly even start your car. The key fob is equipped with an electronic chip built in that communicates with your car's onboard systems to regulate functions such as the starter. Key fobs for basic use are typically constructed from plastic that is standard, and use a regular lock and key mechanism. These are the same as those found on old Pontiacs as well as Saturns. A basic key fob will cost anywhere between $50 and $100, but you'll be charged more if you need to replace one that has been lost or damaged. If your car was manufactured in the past five years, chances are you'll need to visit the dealership to get a replacement fob as many newer cars require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith shop or key shop is usually capable of doing this for less. The kind of fob you own can affect the price. Older cars use mechanical keys, while the modern models have transponder keys. Both come with a variety of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically to rolling codes that are updated regularly to prevent thieves from taking and stealing your car's key fob data. Key fobs purchased online may be less expensive than ones you can buy at the dealer, but they might not work on 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 chance that it won't work. Read the owner's manual for your model or go to the manufacturer's site to find information about programming your particular model's key fob. You should try to do this yourself before hiring an expert locksmith or visiting the dealer. You can also look into the warranty on your vehicle and the auto-insurance policy to determine if they cover the cost of replacing a key fob. Transponder Key Most modern cars utilize keys that are known as transponder keys. The keys have a chip embedded in the key's head which transmits a signal the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and for starting the engine. This key type is more secure than standard flat metal keys due to a transponder chip prevents the car from starting if it does not receive an appropriate signal from the key. This technology was created to reduce car theft as it is nearly impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the appropriate equipment. In addition, many cars also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting when a non-transponder key is used. However, car thieves have also developed ways to steal and break into cars with transponder keys. A locksmith can assist you to replace your transponder keys if it's damaged or lost. They will need to have the information about your specific vehicle, including the VIN number as well as the model and year. Then, they'll cut a new key or program the current one to the car's system. This is a more costly procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys. Some auto stores, such as AutoZone and Walmart, are also capable of cutting and copying the transponder keys, however they might not be in a position to reprogram the chip in the key. If you want to be sure that a professional is able to complete the job, call a reputable and experienced locksmith service. It was quite simple to make a duplicate key for a car and hot-wire a car prior to the advent of this new technology. This method of stealing cars was very widespread and allowed criminals to enter and drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have drastically reduced the risk of this crime, but not entirely eliminated it. key replacements for cars can call a professional to do this for you if you need a replacement transponder key, or if you've lost yours. It will cost more than a standard key but it's a much safer and better option to ensure that someone else cannot start your car. Keyless Entry System Car key fobs are becoming an everyday feature in cars, as more and more people seek convenience, safety and security. These little transmitters can unlock doors, set off the panic alarm or open the trunk and even start your engine without having the physical key in your hands. They can also take some abuse from being tossed around, and they're more likely to be lost or stolen than traditional keys. It's costly to replace them, and you might need to program your new fob to connect it with your vehicle. A basic key fob will cost ten or so dollars to cut at an hardware store, but the latest smart keys aren't cheap if you want to purchase the keys and have them programmed. You can expect to spend between $200 and $500 on a replacement key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed to fit in your car. Certain advanced car key systems let you use your smartphone as keys. Using the app on your phone, you can remote lock or unlock your car and you can also turn your lights on and off, turn off your parking brake, and perform other things based on the proximity of your car. These are perfect for those who live in urban areas or have children and are worried about them leaving the car unattended. Certain of these systems are costly however they're also more secure than a standard car key as they locate you and prevent you from accidentally locking the car or turning the engine on if you're too far away. They can also help you find your car in garages that have parking spaces and even alert you if the doors are opened or closed. These kinds of systems could also be beneficial to businesses, like property managers that oversee vacation rentals or office spaces. These systems allow them to monitor access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those with permissions are allowed to enter and exit the premises. Dealership Some people may feel that they must go to the dealer if their keys disappear. The dealer will request proof of ownership and order the key from the manufacturer. This could take a few days. However, a dealer can generally complete the task for you quicker than locksmiths, and they might have lower prices, as well. The key fob may still need to be programmed for your vehicle. This can be done through the dealer or consulting your owner's guide. It involves opening and shutting doors, and switching off or on lights and other electronic devices. It can even require pressing a set of buttons which acts as a code. This can often be done by the driver, but it is always best to let an expert manage it. The year the car was manufactured, its model and make of the vehicle will have an impact on the cost as well. The cost of the service can also be affected by the year, model and model of the vehicle. A dealer that sells a certain model will be more likely to be able to replace keys for that model. Some of the larger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler, have many models and are familiar with the keys. Other brands are more difficult to work with. This includes some of the more established companies that have closed, 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 keys have to be reprogrammed and can be more complicated and costly than replacing the key itself. It is recommended to get your spare key copied by a professional rather than purchasing another one from the dealer. That way you can avoid paying the higher after-hours or weekend rates. Then, if you lose your keys, you can rest easy knowing that the copied key will function.
key replacements for cars
