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Car Keys Replacement Cost It wasn't long ago that misplacing keys to cars was not a major issue. You could take your spare to key cutters and purchase an additional one for $10 or less. Today, however the process is more complicated and expensive. Read on to learn about the different types of keys for cars and what they will cost you to replace. Basic Key Fob A key fob is an remote control as well as a key in one. It's a small plastic device that contains a button or buttons that you press to unlock the doors and trunk, open the hatchback, open the windows and maybe even start the car. The key fob has an electronic chip embedded that communicates with your car's onboard systems to control functions such as the starter. Basic key fobs are constructed from plastic that is standard, and utilize a standard lock and key mechanism. They're identical to those that were used on the old Pontiacs and Saturns. A basic key fob may cost anything from $50 to $100, but the real cost is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one. You'll likely need to visit the dealer if your vehicle is newer than five years. Most newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or key shop is usually able to do this at a lower cost. The kind of fob you own can also impact the cost. automotive car key replacement use mechanical key fobs, while the latest models usually have transponder keys or smart keys. Key fobs of both types can come with a variety of features. They can include keyless entry which locks and unlocks your car automatically, or rolling codes that are updated regularly to prevent thieves from intercepting the data on the key fob. Key fobs purchased online may be less expensive than the ones you can get from the dealer, but they may not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that prevent their key fobs from interfacing with third party devices. Some dealers can program an aftermarket key fob when it's brought in, but it's very likely that it won't function. You can find information about programming your key fob by visiting the manufacturer's site or the owner's manual. It is recommended to try this yourself first before paying a locksmith or going to the dealer. You can also look at your car's warranty, roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance coverage to determine if they cover the costs of a replacement key fob. Transponder Key Transponder keys are used in the majority of newer automobiles. The keys contain embedded chips in the head that sends a message to the vehicle after it is inserted in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and launching the engine. This key is more secure than a traditional flat metal keys because the transponder chip prevents a car from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was created to prevent theft of cars since it is almost impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the proper equipment. In addition, many cars also have immobilizer systems that prevent them from starting if a non-transponder key is used. Car thieves have devised ways to steal cars equipped with transponder key systems. A locksmith can usually help you replace the damaged or lost transponder key. They'll require the details about your specific vehicle, including the VIN number as well as the model and year. They will then cut a new key or program the existing one to your car's security system. This procedure is more expensive than simply having a car dealership cut and program a new key. Some stores for automotive, such as AutoZone and Walmart, are also able to cut and copy a transponder key, but they may not be able to reprogram the chip in the key. If you want to ensure that a professional can handle the task, you should contact an experienced and trusted locksmith business. Before the invention of this technology it was fairly easy for someone to make duplicate car keys and then hot wire a vehicle. This was a method used to steal cars and it permitted criminals to steal stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced this crime, but they haven't completely eliminated it. If you need a new transponder key, or have lost yours, the best option is to contact an expert and let them make it for you. The cost will be more than a standard key, but it's a safer and more secure method to ensure that your vehicle 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 more people want convenience, safety, and security. These tiny transmitters can open doors, activate the alarm for panic or open the trunk and even start your car without having to have a physical key in your hands. They are easily tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. That means they're expensive to replace, and you may require fob programming in order to pair your new one with your vehicle. The cost of cutting a basic key fob at a hardware shop is around 10 dollars. However, the newest smart keys can be costly when you need to purchase them as well as programme them. Based on the make and model, you can expect to shell out between $200 to $500 for a replacement fob, in addition to the cost of having it cut and programmed to your vehicle. There are also more advanced car key systems that allow you to use your smartphone as an actual key. Using the app on your smartphone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car and you can switch on and off, turn off your parking brake, and perform other things depending on your proximity to the car. These are perfect for those who live in urban areas or if you have children and are worried about children leaving the car unattended. Certain of these systems may be expensive, but are more secure than a standard car key. They track your location to prevent you from accidentally locking or starting the car if you're far from. They also can help you locate your car inside garages that have parking spaces and can even warn you if the doors are shut or opened. These systems can also be useful for businesses such as property managers who manage offices or vacation rentals. These systems can allow them to monitor access rights of guests cleaners, guests, and maintenance staff, as well as making sure that only those with the right permissions can get into and out of the space. Dealership Some people might feel that they must visit a dealership if their keys are lost. They'll have to show proof of ownership, and occasionally the key must be ordered from the manufacturer, which could take a few days. But a dealer will generally complete the task for you faster than a locksmith, and they might have lower prices, too. It is likely that the key fob will still require programming to your vehicle. This can be done either at the dealership or by looking up the owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors, as well as turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off. It may also require pressing a set of buttons that act as a code. This is often handled by the drivers, but it's best to let a technician manage it. The cost can also be dependent on the year, make and model of vehicle. The cost of the service may also be affected by the year, model and model of the vehicle. A dealer who sells a specific model will be more likely to be able to change keys for that model. Some of the biggest manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan, have a large variety of models and are more acquainted with the keys that are used for the models they sell. Other brands are more difficult to work with. This includes a few of the older companies that have closed, or are old enough to have keys that are no longer being produced. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. The keys are typically reprogrammed. This can be more expensive and complicated than replacing the key. If you have a spare key, it is usually best to have it cloned at a specialist rather than getting a replacement from the dealer. That way you can avoid having to pay the more expensive after-hours or weekend rates. If you lose your keys you can be sure that the duplicate will function.