10 Car Keys Replacement Cost Tricks All Experts Recommend

Car Keys Replacement Cost

It wasn't long ago that misplacing keys to cars was not a problem. You could bring your spare key to a key cutting shop for a new one that cost less than $10.

Nowadays, however, the process is more complicated and expensive. Learn more about the different types of keys for cars and how they can cost you to replace them.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob is both a remote and key in one. It's a small, plastic piece equipped with a button which can be pushed to open doors, open the hatchback or trunk, roll down windows, and possibly even start the vehicle. The key fob has a built-in electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard system to control functions such as the starter.

A basic key fob is typically made of standard plastic and utilizes a standard lock-and-key mechanism, like the type you'd find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost anywhere from $50 to $100, but the true price is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one.

If your car was built within the last five years, the chances that you'll have to visit the dealer to get a replacement fob as many newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. Locksmiths or key shops can usually perform this task for less, however.

The type of fob you have will also affect the price. Older vehicles use mechanical key fobs, whereas the most recent models typically 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 vehicle in a controlled manner to rolling codes that change regularly to deter thieves from intercepting 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 the dealership however, they may not be compatible with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru, have security chips in their key fobs that prevent them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealers will program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in however there's a high chance it won't continue to function.

You can get information on programming your key fob by visiting the manufacturer's site or your owner's guide. It's worth trying to do this yourself before going to the dealer or hiring a locksmith to do it. You can also look at your vehicle's warranty, roadside assistance and auto-insurance policy to see if they cover the costs of a replacement fob for your key.

Transponder Key

Most newer cars use keys that are known as a transponder key. They have an embedded chip in the head of the key that sends a signal to the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and starting the engine. This key type is more secure than standard flat metal keys because transponder chips stop the car from starting if it does not receive an appropriate signal from the key. This technology was developed to reduce car theft as it is almost impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the proper equipment.

Additionally, many vehicles also have immobilizer systems that prevent them from starting when a non-transponder key is used. However, thieves have also developed methods to steal and break into vehicles that have transponder keys.

A locksmith can usually assist you in replacing a lost or damaged transponder key. They'll require the details about your specific vehicle, such as the VIN number as well as the model and year. Then they will cut a new one or program the existing one to the mobile car key replacement's system. This process is a bit more expensive than simply having a car dealership cut and program a new key.

Some auto stores such as AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and copy transponder keys, but may not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. It is best to call an experienced and reliable locksmith firm to be sure that a professional is competent to complete the task.

Before the advent of this technology it was quite easy to make duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a vehicle. This method of stealing vehicles was frequent and allowed criminals to enter and drive off with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have drastically reduced the risk of this crime, but it isn't entirely eliminated it.

You can contact an expert to do this for you if you require an extra transponder key or if you've lost one. The cost of replacement car keys will be more than a traditional key but it is a much safer and better way to ensure that your vehicle can't be started by anyone else.

Keyless Entry System

Car key fobs are now a standard feature in vehicles as more people want convenience, safety, and security. These tiny transmitters can open doors, set off the alarm for panic, open the trunk, and even start your car replacement key near me without having to have a physical key in your hands. They can be thrown around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. This means they're costly to replace, and you may require fob programming to connect your new key replacement for car with your vehicle.

A basic key fob costs about ten dollars to cut at a hardware store, but the most recent smart keys can be expensive if you're looking to purchase the keys and have them programmed. Depending on your vehicle model and make, you can expect to shell out between $200 to $500 to replace a fob plus the cost of cutting it and programming it to your vehicle.

There are other more advanced car keys systems that allow you to make use of your smartphone as an actual key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle remotely using the app on your smartphone. You can also turn on and off your lights, turn on your parking break, and perform other tasks based on the distance you're to your vehicle. These are great for people who live in urban areas, or even parents who are worried about your children leaving the car replacement key cost unattended.

Some of these systems are expensive however, they're more secure than a standard car key as they track your location and prevent you from accidentally locking your car or turning off the engine when you're far away. Certain of these systems can assist you in finding your vehicle in a garage, while others can alert you if you shut or open the doors.

These kinds of systems could also be beneficial to companies, such as property managers who oversee vacation rentals or office spaces. These systems are able to monitor access rights for guests as well as cleaning staff and maintenance staff, as well as ensuring that only those with the appropriate permissions are allowed to get in and out of the space.

Dealership

Some people may think that they need to go to the dealership when their keys are lost. The dealer will request proof of ownership and request keys from the manufacturer. This can take several days. However, a dealer can typically complete the task for you quicker than locksmiths, and may offer lower prices too.

It is likely that the key fob will still need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done either through the dealer or looking up the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, as well as turning on and off lights and other electronic devices. It can even involve pressing a series of buttons which acts as the code. This is usually handled by the drivers, but it's always better to let a technician handle it.

The year the car was manufactured, its model and make of the vehicle will affect the price, too. Modern cars come with advanced transponder chips that need to be paired with the vehicle by a locksmith dealer, and the process can be more expensive.

A dealer who sells a particular brand of vehicle is more likely to know how to replace keys for that vehicle. Some of the biggest manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler, have many models and are well-versed in the keys.

Certain brands are difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have shut down or that are old enough that they no longer manufacture keys are included. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. Typically, these kinds of keys need to be reprogrammed and can be more difficult and expensive than replacing the key itself.

It is recommended to have your spare key cloned by a professional instead of getting an entirely new one from the dealer. That way you can avoid having to pay for the more expensive after-hours or weekend rates. Then, if you do lose your keys you can rest easy knowing that the key cloned will function.