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5 Car Keys Replacement Cost Lessons From The Professionals
Car Keys Replacement Cost

It wasn't too long ago that misplacing keys to cars was not a major issue. You could take your spare keys to key cutters and purchase an additional one for $10 or less.

However the process has become more complex and expensive. Find out more about the various kinds of keys for cars and how they'll cost you to replace them.

Basic Key Fob

Key fobs are an electronic remote control and an actual key in one. It's tiny, plastic device with a button can be pushed to open doors and hatchbacks, open the trunk, open windows, roll them down and maybe even start the vehicle. The key fob has an electronic chip built in that communicates with the car's onboard systems to control functions like the starter.

Basic key fobs are constructed from plastic that is standard, and utilize a standard lock and key mechanism. They are similar to the ones that were used on the old Pontiacs and Saturns. A basic key fob can cost between $50-$100, but you'll pay more if you need to replace one that's damaged or lost.

If automotive car key replacement was manufactured within the last five years, the chances are that you'll need to go to the dealership to get a replacement fob as many newer vehicles require special equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith or a key shop will usually be capable of doing this for less.

The kind of fob you own can also impact the cost. Older cars have mechanical key fobs, whereas the most recent models typically have transponder keys or smart keys. Both are able to have a range of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the car instantly to changing codes on a regular basis to prevent thieves from taking and using the data from your key fob.

Online key fobs may be cheaper than those you can purchase from a dealer, but they might not work on your car. Certain manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips that block their key fobs from working with third-party devices. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob when it's brought in, however it's very likely that it won't function.

Go through your owner's manual or visit the manufacturer's website to find information on programming your specific model's key fob. It's worth trying this yourself before heading to the dealership or paying a locksmith to do it. You can also check the warranty of your vehicle, the auto-insurance policy and roadside assistance coverage to determine if they will cover the cost of a replacement fob for your key.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are found in the majority of modern cars. These keys contain a chip embedded in the head of the key that sends a signal to the vehicle when it is inserted into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and launching the engine. This key is more secure than a traditional flat metal key because the transponder chip blocks cars from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was developed to reduce car theft as it is nearly impossible to duplicate these kinds of keys without the proper equipment.

Additionally, many cars also have immobilizer systems that prevent them from starting when keys that are not transponder compatible are used. However, car thieves have also developed ways to gain access and steal vehicles that have transponder keys.

A locksmith can usually assist you in replacing a lost or damaged transponder key. They'll need the information about your specific vehicle, including the VIN number along with the year, model and year. They can then either program your current key to the car's system, or cut an entirely new one. This is a costlier process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.

Some automotive stores, like AutoZone and Walmart are also able to cut and copy a transponder key, but they might not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. It is best to call an experienced and reputable locksmith service to ensure that a professional is competent to complete the task.

Before the invention of this technology it was fairly easy for someone to make a duplicate car key and then hot wire a car. This method of stealing cars was frequent and allowed criminals to gain entry and drive away with stolen vehicles. The advent of transponder keys has drastically reduced this crime however, it's not completely eliminated.

You can call an expert to do this for you if you require an extra transponder key or if you lost yours. The cost will be higher than a traditional key but it's a safer and more secure method to ensure that your car cannot be started by someone else.

Keyless Entry System

Car key fobs are now a standard feature of vehicles, as more and people are seeking convenience, safety, and security. These devices are able to open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, or start the engine without having the physical key. But they can also take quite a beating from being tossed around and they are more likely to be lost or stolen than metal keys. That means they're expensive to replace, and you may require fob programming in order to pair the new key with your vehicle.

A standard key fob can cost about ten dollars to cut at the hardware store, however the latest smart keys aren't cheap when you want to purchase them and have them programmed. You can expect to spend between $200 and $500 on the replacement key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed for your car.

There are additionally more advanced car key systems that let you make use of your smartphone as a key. You can lock or unlock your car by using an app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn on and off your lights, activate your parking break, and perform other things based on the proximity to your vehicle. These are great for people who reside in urban areas or if you're a parent that's worried about your children leaving the car unsupervised.

Some of these systems could be expensive, but are more secure than a standard car key. They track your location to prevent you from locking or starting the car when you are too far from. Some of these systems can help you locate your car in a garage, and others will notify you when you shut or open the doors.

automotive car key replacement of systems can also be useful for businesses, like property managers that oversee office space or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to control access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also make sure that only those who have permissions are allowed to enter and exit the premises.

Dealership

Some people may feel that they have to visit a dealership if their keys are lost. They will need to show proof of ownership, and occasionally the key must be ordered from the manufacturer, which could take a few days. A dealer is usually able to complete the job quicker than a locksmith and could even charge less.

It is likely that the key fob will still need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by reading the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, and switching off and on lights and other electronic devices. It could even involve pressing a combination of buttons that acts like a code. This is often handled by the driver, but it's best to let an expert take care of it.

The year the car was manufactured, its model and make of the vehicle will affect the cost as well. Modern cars come with high-tech transponder chips that will need to be paired with the vehicle by a locksmith dealer, and the process can be more expensive.


A dealer that sells a specific brand of car is more likely know how to replace keys for the vehicle. Some of the larger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan, have a large variety of models and are more familiar with the keys that are used for those models.

Some brands are harder to work with. Some of the older brands that have closed or are so old that they no longer make keys are listed. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. The keys are typically modified. This is more expensive and complicated than replacing the key.

It is recommended to get your spare key copied by a specialist rather than getting an entirely new one from a dealer. So, you don't have to worry about paying the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. If you do lose your keys you can rest easy knowing that the key cloned will function.

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