10 Car Keys Replacement Cost That Are Unexpected Car Keys Replacement Cost

Not long ago, misplacing your keys to your car wasn't an issue. You could take your spare key to a key cutting shop for an alternative that cost less than $10.

Today, however the process can be more complicated and costly. Read on to learn about the various kinds of car keys and how they'll cost you to replace.

Basic Key Fob


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

keyless car key replacement is typically made of plastic and utilizes a standard lock-and-key mechanism, such as the type you'd find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost between $50 and $100, but the actual cost is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one.

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

The cost of the fob you purchase can also be affected by the type you own. Older cars use mechanical key fobs while the latest models use transponder keys. Both of these types come with a variety of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the car instantly to changing codes on a regular basis to deter thieves from intercepting and stealing the key fob information of your car.

Key fobs purchased online may be less expensive than the ones you can purchase from a dealer, but they may not be compatible with your car. Certain manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips that prevent their key fobs from interacting 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 work.

You can find out more about programming your key fob by searching the site of the manufacturer or in your owner's guide. It's worth trying to do this yourself prior to going to the dealership or paying an expert locksmith to do it. You can also check the warranty of your vehicle, the roadside assistance and auto-insurance policy to see if they cover the costs of a replacement key fob.

Transponder Key

Most newer cars use keys that are known as transponder keys. These keys have an embedded chip in the head which transmits an information to the vehicle once it is inserted in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and starting the engine. This key is more secure than a conventional flat metal key due to the transponder chip stops the car from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was developed to stop car theft since it is almost impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the proper equipment.

In addition, many cars also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting if keys that are not transponder compatible are used. Car thieves have devised methods of stealing cars with transponder key systems.

A locksmith can help you to replace your transponder keys if it's damaged or lost. They will need the information about your vehicle, such as the VIN number and model. They'll either program the key you have 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, such as AutoZone and Walmart, are also capable of cutting and re-copying a transponder key, but they might not be in a position to reprogram the chip in the key. If you want to ensure that a professional will be able to handle the task, you should contact an experienced and trusted locksmith service.

It was quite simple to make a duplicate key for a car and wire a vehicle prior to the advent of this modern technology. This method of stealing vehicles was widespread and allowed criminals to get into and drive away with stolen vehicles. The advent of transponder keys has greatly reduced the likelihood of this happening, but it is not completely eliminated.

If you need a replacement transponder keys or you've lost yours, the best solution is to contact a professional and have them create it for you. The cost will be more than a traditional key but it is a much safer and more secure method to ensure that your vehicle can't be started by anyone else.

Keyless Entry System

Car key fobs are now a standard feature of vehicles as more people seek convenience, safety and security. These transmitters can open doors, trigger the panic alarm, open the trunk, and even start the engine without an actual key. However, they also endure some abuse from being used in a variety of ways, and they are more likely to be lost or stolen than the metal keys. It's costly to replace them, and you may have to program your new key to pair it with your vehicle.

The cost of cutting a standard key fob at a hardware shop is around 10 dollars. However, the most recent smart keys can be costly when you need to purchase them and then program them. It is possible to spend between $200 and $500 on the replacement key fob. This includes the cost to have it cut and programmed for your vehicle.

There are also more advanced car key systems that let you make use of your smartphone as a key. Using the app on your phone, you can remote lock or unlock your car and you can switch on and off, activate your parking brake, and do other things depending on the proximity of your car. They are perfect for people who reside in urban areas or even parents who are concerned about your children leaving the car unsupervised.

Certain of these systems may be expensive, but they are more secure than the standard car key. replacement keyless car keys keep track of your location to prevent you from locking or opening the car when you are far from. Certain systems can help you locate your car in a garage and others can alert you if you open or close the doors.

These kinds of systems could also be beneficial for businesses, like property managers who manage vacation rentals or office spaces. These systems are able to monitor access rights of guests as well as cleaning staff and maintenance staff, as well as ensuring that only those with the proper permissions can go into and out of the space.

Dealership

Some people may think that they must go to the dealer if their keys disappear. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership and may order keys from the manufacturer. This can take several days. A dealer will usually complete the job more quickly than a locksmith and might 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 dealer or by consulting your owner's guide. It involves closing and opening doors, and turning off lights and other electronics on and off. It may even require pressing a series of buttons that act as an electronic code. Often, this can be performed by the driver, but it is always better to have a technician handle it.

The cost can also be dependent on the year, model and year of vehicle. Modern cars feature high-tech transponder chips that will require pairing with the car by a locksmith dealer, and the process can be more costly.

A dealer that sells a certain brand of car will be more likely to have the knowledge to change keys for that model. Some of the larger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan, have a large number of models, and are more familiar with the keys for the models they sell.

Some brands are harder to work with. remote car key replacement cost of the more established brands that have closed or that are old enough that they no longer produce keys are included. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are some of the companies that are older and no longer produce keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these types of keys require reprogramming which is more complicated and costly than replacing the key itself.

It is best to get your spare key copied by a professional instead of getting an entirely new one from a dealer. So, you don't have to worry about paying the higher after-hours or weekend rates. If you lose your keys, you can be sure that the cloned one will function.