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Five Car Keys Replacement Cost Lessons From The Pros
Car Keys Replacement Cost

Not long ago, misplacing your car keys was not an issue. You could take your spare to an a key cutter and buy a new one for $10 or less.

Today, however the process can be more complicated and costly. Find out more about the various kinds of car keys and how they will cost you to replace.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob is an electronic remote control and an actual key in one. It's a small, plastic device equipped with a button which you can press to unlock doors, open the hatchback or trunk, roll down windows and maybe even start the car. The key fob comes with an electronic chip built in that communicates with your car's onboard systems to control functions such as the starter.

A basic key fob is generally constructed of plastic that utilizes a standard lock-and-key mechanism, like the kind you might find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost anything from $50 to $100, but the actual cost comes when you have to replace a lost or damaged one.

If your car was made in the last five years, the chances are you'll need to visit the dealership for a replacement fob, as many newer cars require specialized equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith or key shop is usually capable of doing this for less.


The type of fob you're using can also impact the cost. Older cars use mechanical key fobs while the modern models have transponder keys. Both types of keys are able to have a range of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically to rolling codes that change regularly to deter thieves from intercepting and stealing the key fob information of your car.

You might be able to buy an aftermarket key fob online for less than what you'd pay at the dealer however they might not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that block their key fobs from working with third-party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket key fob, if it's brought in, however it's highly unlikely that it will function.

Go through your owner's manual or visit the manufacturer's website to find information about programming your particular model's key fob. You should try to do this yourself prior to paying for a locksmith or going to the dealer. You can also look into your car's warranty and auto insurance policy to determine whether they will cover the cost of a new key fob.

Transponder Key

Most newer cars use a type of key called a transponder key. The keys contain a chip embedded into the head that sends a message to the vehicle after it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and begin the engine. This key type is more secure than conventional flat metal keys due to transponder chips stop the car from starting if it doesn't receive a signal from the correct key. This technology was developed to prevent theft of cars since it is almost impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the appropriate equipment.

Additionally, many vehicles also come with immobilizer systems that stop them from starting if keys that are not transponder compatible are used. Car thieves have come up with ways to steal cars equipped with transponder key systems.

A locksmith can usually assist you in replacing the damaged or lost transponder key. They will need the details of your vehicle like the VIN number and model. They can then either program your existing key to the car's system, or cut new keys. This is a costlier procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys.

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. You should contact a reputable and experienced locksmith firm to be sure that a professional is able to handle the task.

Before the advent of technology like this it was fairly easy to make duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a vehicle. This was a method used to steal cars and permitted criminals to steal stolen vehicles. The introduction of the transponder key has greatly reduced the likelihood of this happening however, it's not completely eliminated.

You can get an expert to do this for you in the event that you require a replacement transponder key, or if you lost yours. It will cost more than a standard key, but it's a much safer and more secure alternative to ensure that someone else cannot start your car.

Keyless Entry System

Car key fobs are now an everyday feature in cars as more people seek convenience, safety, and security. These devices can open doors, trigger the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, or start the engine without having an actual key. They are easily tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. It's costly to replace keys, and you might require programming your new fob to connect it with your vehicle.

The cost of cutting a basic key fob at an hardware store is around ten dollars. However, the newest smart keys can be expensive if you have to buy them, as well as program them. Depending on your vehicle model and make you could expect to pay anywhere from $200-$500 for a replacement fob in addition to the cost of cutting it and programming it to your vehicle.

Some advanced car key systems allow you to use your smartphone as a key. With the application on your phone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car, and you can also switch on and off, activate your parking brake, and perform other things based on your proximity to the car. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas, or have children and worry about children leaving the car unattended.

Some of these systems can be expensive, but they are more secure than a regular car key. They keep track of your location to prevent you from accidentally locking or starting the car if you're too far from. They can also help you locate your car inside a parking garage and can even warn you if the doors are open or closed.

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

key replacement may think that they must go to the dealer if their keys disappear. The dealer will ask for proof of ownership and order the key from the manufacturer. This could take several days. A dealer is usually able to complete the job more quickly than a locksmith, and may even cost less.

The key fob could need to be programmed for your car. This can be done at the dealership, or by reading the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, and turning off lights and other electronic components on and off. It could even require pressing a set of buttons that functions as an electronic code. Most of the time, this is done by the driver, but it is always better to have a technician perform it.

The cost is also affected by the year, make and model of vehicle. The cost of the service can be affected by the year, model and model of the vehicle.

A dealer who sells a particular model will be more likely to know how to change keys for the model. Some of the larger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have a variety of models and are well-versed in the keys.

Other brands are more difficult to work with. This includes some of the more established firms that have been shut down or are old enough to have keys that are no longer in production. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn, and Eagle. The keys are typically changed. This can be more expensive and difficult than replacing the key.

It is best to get your spare key copied by a specialist rather than purchasing a new one from the dealer. So, you don't have to worry about having to pay for the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. Then, if you do lose your keys, you can rest easy knowing that the cloned key will work.

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