20 Car Keys Replacement Cost Websites Taking The Internet By Storm

Car Keys Replacement Cost

A few years ago, losing your keys to your car wasn't a big deal. You could take your spare key to a key cutter and get the replacement key for $10 or less.

Today, however the process is more complicated and costly. Learn about the different types and costs for keys for cars.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob can be described as an remote as well as a key in one. It's a small, plastic device with a button that you can push to unlock doors and hatchbacks, open the trunk, open windows, roll them down and maybe even start your car. The key fob also has a built-in electronic chip that communicates with the car keys replacements's onboard computer system to control functions such as the starter.

A basic key fob is generally made of standard plastic and utilizes a standard lock-and-key mechanism, such as the one you'd find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost anything from $50 to $100, but the true cost comes when you have to replace a damaged or lost one.

If your car was built within the last five years, the chances are you'll need to visit the dealer to get a replacement fob since many modern cars require specialized equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith or a key shop will usually be in a position to provide this service at a lower cost.

The type of fob you're using can also impact the cost. Older vehicles have mechanical key fobs while the most recent models utilize transponder keys. Both types of key fobs can come with a variety of features. They may include keyless entry which locks and unlocks your car automatically or rolling codes that are changed frequently to keep thieves from stealing the information on your key fob.

You may be able to purchase an aftermarket key fob for less than what you'd pay at a dealership however, they may not work with your car. Certain manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from interacting with third-party devices. Some dealerships can program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in however there's a high chance it won't continue to work.

You can get information on programming your key fob by looking up the site of the manufacturer or in the owner's guide. It's worth trying to do this yourself before going to the dealer or hiring an expert locksmith. You may also want to check the warranty on your vehicle and the auto-insurance policy to see if they cover the cost of a new key fob.

Transponder Key

The majority of newer cars have keys that are known as transponder keys. They have a chip embedded into the head which transmits a message to the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and starting the engine. This key is more secure than the traditional flat metal keys because the transponder chip stops the car from starting without the correct signal. This technology was developed to prevent theft of cars because it is virtually impossible to duplicate these keys without the proper equipment.

Additionally, many vehicles also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting if the key is not transponder-compatible. However, thieves have also developed methods to gain access and steal cars with transponder keys.

A locksmith will usually be able to help you replace a lost or damaged transponder key. They will need the details about your car including the VIN number and model. They can then either program your existing key to the car's system, or cut a new one. This procedure is more expensive than having a car dealership cut and program a new key.

Some stores for automotive like AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and copy transponder keys, but they aren't capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. It is best to call an experienced and reliable locksmith company if you want to be sure that a professional will be competent to complete the task.

Before the advent of this technology, it was relatively simple to create duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a vehicle. This method of stealing vehicles was common and allowed criminals to get into and drive away with stolen vehicles. The advent of the transponder key has greatly reduced this activity however, it's not completely eliminated.

If you require a new transponder key, or have lost yours, the best option is to call a professional and have them make it for you. The cost will be more than a traditional key however it's a safer and better method to ensure that your car can't be started by anyone else.

Keyless Entry System

Car key fobs are becoming a standard feature of vehicles as more people seek convenience, safety, and security. These little transmitters can unlock doors, set off the alarm for panic and open the trunk and even start your engine without having to carry a physical key in your hands. But they can also take some abuse from being tossed around, and they are more likely to be lost or stolen than the metal keys. They're also expensive to replace, and you might need fob programming to pair the new key with your vehicle.

A basic key fob costs ten or so dollars to cut at a hardware store, but the most recent smart keys can be expensive if you need to buy the keys and have them programmed. Based on the model and make you could expect to pay between $200-$500 to replace a fob and the cost of having it cut and Car Keys Replacement Cost programmed to your vehicle.

There are additionally more advanced car key systems that let you make use of your smartphone as a key. Using the app on your phone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car and you can also switch your lights on and off, turn off your parking brake, and perform other things based on the proximity of your car. They are perfect for people who reside in urban areas or even if you're a parent that's worried about your kids leaving the car unattended.

Certain of these systems are expensive however they're also more secure than a regular car key since they track your location and prevent you from accidentally locking the car or turning off the engine if you're too far away. Certain of these systems can help you locate your vehicle in a garage, while others will notify you when you shut or open the doors.

These kinds of systems could also be beneficial for companies, such as property managers who manage vacation rentals or office spaces. These systems allow them to monitor the access rights for guests, cleaning staff, and maintenance personnel, while ensuring that only those with the proper permissions can go into and out of the space.

Dealership

Some people believe that they should visit a dealer when keys are missing. The dealer will ask for proof of ownership and request keys from the manufacturer. This can take several days. But a dealer will usually get the job done for you faster than locksmiths, and may offer lower prices too.

It is likely that the key fob will still require programming to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership, or by reading your owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, and turning off lights and other electronics on and off. It may also require pressing a series of buttons that function as an electronic code. This is usually handled by the drivers, however it's best to let an expert manage it.

The year, make and model of the car 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 who sells a specific model will be more likely to know how to change keys for that model. Some of the biggest manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler, have many models and are familiar with keys.

Some brands are harder to work with. Some of the older brands that have shut down or are so old that they no longer make keys are listed. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. These keys are usually reprogrammed. This is more expensive and time-consuming than replacing the key.

In general, if you have a spare key, it is usually best to get it copied by a specialist rather than getting an exchange from the dealer. This way, you avoid paying the more expensive after-hours or weekend rates. If you lose your keys, you are assured that the duplicate will work.