5 Car Keys Replacement Cost Projects For Every Budget

Car Keys Replacement Cost
In the past, losing your keys to your car wasn't a big deal. You could bring your spare key to a key cutter for the replacement key for less than $10.
Nevertheless, the process has become more complicated and costly. Find out more about the various types of car keys and how they'll cost you to replace.
Basic Key Fob
Key fobs are an electronic remote and a key in one. It's a small, plastic device with a button that can be pushed to open doors, open the hatchback or trunk, lower windows and maybe even start your car. The key fob also comes with an electronic chip inside that communicates with the car's onboard computer system to control functions such as the starter.
A basic key fob is typically constructed of plastic that employs a lock-and key mechanism, such as the one you'd find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost anything from $50 to $100, but the real price is when you need to replace a lost or damaged one.
You'll probably need to visit a dealer if your vehicle is older than five years old. Many newer cars require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or key shop will usually be able to do this for less though.
The type of fob you have can affect the price. Older vehicles have mechanical key fobs while the most recent models utilize transponder keys. Both can have a wide range of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the car instantly to rolling codes that are updated regularly to deter thieves from intercepting and using your car's key fob data.
You might be able to buy an aftermarket key fob online at a lower cost than what you'd pay at the dealer, but these may not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru, include security chips in their key fobs that block them from working with third-party devices. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob, if it's brought in, however it's likely that it won't function.
Go through your owner's manual or visit the manufacturer's website for more 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 your car's warranty, auto-insurance policy and roadside assistance coverage to see if these will cover the cost of a replacement key fob.
Transponder Key
Most newer cars use keys of a different type, known as transponder keys. The keys have an embedded chip inside 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 start the engine. This key type is more secure than standard flat metal keys since transponder chips stop the car from starting if it does not receive a signal from the correct key. This technology was developed to prevent theft of cars because it is almost impossible to duplicate these keys without the right equipment.
In addition, many cars also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting when a non-transponder key is used. Car thieves have come up with ways to steal cars equipped with transponder key systems.
A locksmith can assist you replace your transponder key if it's damaged or stolen. They will need to have the details about your specific vehicle, including the VIN number, model and year. They will then cut a new one or program the one they have to your car's system. This is a little more expensive than simply 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, however, they may not be capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. You should contact an experienced and reputable locksmith company if you want to be sure that a professional will be able to handle the task.
It was fairly easy to create duplicate keys for a car and hot-wire a vehicle before the advent of this new technology. This method of stealing vehicles was common and allowed criminals to enter and drive off with stolen vehicles. The introduction of the transponder key has greatly reduced this activity but it's not completely eliminated.
car key replacement near me mobile can get an expert to handle this for you if you need a replacement transponder key, or if you've lost one. 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 in vehicles as more people want convenience, safety and security. These devices can open doors, trigger the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, or even start the engine without having the physical key. They can be tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. That means they're expensive to replace, and you may need fob programming to pair your new one with your vehicle.
The cost of cutting a basic key fob in an hardware store is around 10 dollars. However, the most recent smart keys can be expensive if you must purchase them as well as programme them. Depending on your vehicle model and make, you can expect to pay between $200 and $500 for a replacement fob, and the cost of cutting it and programming it to your car.
Some sophisticated car key systems allow you to use your phone as a key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle via the app on your phone. You can also turn off and on your lights, turn on your parking break, as well as perform other tasks depending on the proximity to the car. These are great for people who reside in urban areas or if you're a parent that's concerned about your children leaving the car without supervision.
Some of these systems could be expensive, but 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 far away. They also can help you locate your car in a parking garage and can even warn you if the doors are shut or opened.
These types of systems can also be useful for companies, such as property managers who oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems are able to monitor the access rights of guests as well as cleaning staff and maintenance workers, while ensuring that only those with the right permissions can get into and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people believe that they should go to the dealer when keys are missing. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership and may request the key from the manufacturer. This could take several days. A dealer will usually complete the job more quickly than a locksmith, and may even charge less.
It is likely that the key fob will 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 can even involve pressing a series of buttons that functions as the code. Most of the time, this is performed by the driver however, it is best to have a technician handle it.
The cost can also be dependent on the year, make and type of vehicle. The cost of the service may also be affected by the year, make and model of the vehicle.
A dealer who sells a specific model will be more likely to know how to replace keys for that model. Some of the bigger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler, have many models and are well-versed in keys.
Other brands are more difficult to work with. This includes a few of the older firms that have been shut down or are old enough to have keys that are no longer being produced. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. These keys are usually modified. This is more expensive and time-consuming than replacing the key.
In general, if you have a spare key, it is best to duplicate it at a specialist rather than getting a replacement from the dealer. You can avoid paying the more expensive rates for after-hours or weekend services. If you do lose your keys you can rest assured that the cloned key will function.