Car Keys Replacement Cost 101: This Is The Ultimate Guide For Beginners

auto car key replacement , misplacing your car keys was not a big deal. You could take your spare key to a key cutter and get an alternative that cost $10 or less.

Today, however, the process is more complicated and expensive. Learn about the different types and costs of car keys.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob can be described as a remote and key in one. It's a tiny plastic device that contains a button or buttons that you can push to unlock the doors, open the trunk or hatchback, open the windows, and possibly start the car. The key fob comes with an electronic chip in it that communicates with the car's onboard systems to regulate functions like the starter.

A basic key fob is usually constructed of plastic that 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 between $50-$100, but you'll pay more if you require a replacement for one that's been damaged or lost.

If your car was manufactured in the last five years, chances are that you'll need to visit the dealership to get a replacement fob as many newer cars require specialized equipment to program and code new keys. Locksmiths or key shops will usually be able to do this for less though.

The kind of fob you own can also impact the cost. Older vehicles have mechanical keys, while the most recent models utilize transponder keys. Both types of key fobs are able to be fitted with a variety of features. They may include keyless entry, which locks and unlocks your car automatically or rolling codes that are updated regularly to prevent thieves from stealing the data on the key fob.

You may be able to purchase an aftermarket key fob online at a lower cost than what you'd pay at the dealer however they might not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru, have security chips in their key fobs that block them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealers will program an aftermarket key fob, if it's purchased, but it's highly unlikely that it will 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 this yourself prior to going to the dealership or paying a locksmith to do it. You can also look at your car's warranty, auto-insurance policy and roadside assistance coverage to see if these cover the costs of a replacement key fob.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are used in the majority of modern cars. The keys contain an embedded chip in the head that sends an electronic message to the vehicle when it is inserted in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and start the engine. This key type is more secure than traditional flat metal keys due to transponder chips stop the car from starting if it doesn't receive an appropriate signal from the key. This technology was designed to prevent theft of cars because it is nearly impossible to duplicate these keys without the proper equipment.

Additionally, many cars also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting when a non-transponder key is used. Car thieves have devised ways to steal cars equipped with transponder key systems.

A locksmith will usually be able to assist you in replacing a lost or damaged transponder key. They'll need information about your vehicle like the VIN number and model. They'll either program your current key to the car's system or cut a new one. This is a costlier process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.

Some auto stores, such as AutoZone and Walmart, are also able to cut and copy the transponder keys, however they might not be in a position to reprogram the chip inside the key. It is recommended to contact an experienced and reliable locksmith firm to ensure that a professional will be capable of handling the job.

It was relatively easy to make a duplicate key for a car, and then wire a vehicle prior to the advent of this new technology. This method was used to steal cars and permitted criminals to steal stolen vehicles. The introduction of transponder keys has greatly reduced this activity however, it's not completely eliminated.

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 will be more than a standard key, but it is a much safer and better method to ensure that your car is not able to be started by anyone else.

Keyless Entry System

Car key fobs are now an everyday feature in cars, as more and people are seeking convenience, safety and security. These transmitters can open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, and even start the engine without a physical key. However, they also take a lot of abuse from being tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen than the metal keys. That means they're expensive to replace, and you could need fob programming to pair your new key with your vehicle.

A basic key fob costs around ten dollars to get cut at a hardware store, but the latest smart keys can be expensive if you're looking to purchase them and have them programmed. Based on your car's make and model you can expect to pay anywhere from $200-$500 for a replacement fob and the cost of having it cut and programmed to your vehicle.

Some advanced car key systems let you use your phone as an actual key. By using the app on your phone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car, and you can switch your lights on and off, activate your parking brake, and perform other things based on the proximity of your car. This is ideal for people who reside in urban areas or if you have children and worry about them leaving the car unattended.

Some of these systems could be expensive, but they are more secure than a standard car key. They keep track of your location to prevent you from locking or opening the car if you are too far from. They can also help you find your car in garages that have parking spaces, and some can warn you when the doors are open or closed.

These kinds of systems can also be beneficial to companies, such as property managers who oversee office space or vacation rentals. These systems can allow them to monitor access rights of guests as well as cleaning staff and maintenance personnel, while making sure that only those with the right permissions can get into and out of the space.

Dealership

Some people feel they must visit a dealer when their keys are missing. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership and may request keys from the manufacturer. This could take a few days. A dealer is usually able to complete the job quicker than a locksmith, and might even cost less.

It is likely that the key fob will still require programming to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by consulting the owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors and turning lights and other electronics on and off. It may even require pressing a set of buttons that act as codes. This is often handled by the drivers, however it is always best to let an expert manage it.

The year the model, make and year of the car will affect the cost as well. The cost of the service can be affected by the year, model and model of the vehicle.

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

Certain brands are difficult to work with. This includes some of the older companies that have closed, 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 is more expensive and time-consuming than replacing the key.

In  car key replacement , if you have a spare key it is usually best to duplicate it at a specialist rather than getting an alternative from the dealer. So, you don't have to worry about paying the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. If you lose your keys, you are assured that the cloned key will work.