Car Keys Replacement Cost It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys to your car was not a big issue. You could bring your spare to a key cutter and get a new one for $10 or less. Nowadays, however, the process is more complicated and expensive. Learn more about the different types of car keys and how they will cost you to replace them. Basic Key Fob A key fob can be described as a remote control and a key in one. It's a small plastic device that has a button or buttons that you can push to unlock the doors and trunk, open the hatchback, lower the windows, and perhaps start the car. The key fob also comes with an embedded electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard system to control functions such as the starter. Key fobs for basic use are typically made of standard plastic and utilize a standard lock and key mechanism. They are similar to the ones that were used on the old Pontiacs and Saturns. 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 made within the past five years, chances that you'll have to visit the dealer for a replacement fob, as many newer vehicles require specialized equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith or key shop will usually be able to do this at a lower cost. The type of fob you're using can also impact the cost. Older vehicles use mechanical key fobs, while the most recent models typically have transponder keys or smart keys. Both can have a wide range of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the vehicle instantly to changing codes on a regular basis to deter thieves from intercepting and stealing your car's key fob data. You may be able to purchase an aftermarket key fob online for less than the price you'd pay at the dealership however they might not be compatible with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips inside their key fobs that block them from working with third-party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket key fob, if it's brought in, but it's very likely that it won't work. You can get information on programming your key fob by searching the site of the manufacturer or in the owner's manual. Try to do this yourself before hiring a locksmith or going to the dealer. You may also want to check the warranty on your vehicle and the auto-insurance policy to determine whether they cover the cost of a new key fob. Transponder Key Most modern cars utilize keys that are known as transponder keys. These keys contain an embedded chip inside the key's head which transmits a signal the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. The signal is used to unlock the car and start the engine. This type of key is more secure than traditional flat metal keys since transponder chips stop the car from starting if it does not receive an appropriate signal from the key. This technology was developed to prevent theft of cars because it is nearly impossible to duplicate these keys without the proper equipment. Many cars are also fitted with immobilizers that stop them from being started when they are operated by keys that do not have a transponder. Car thieves have devised methods to steal vehicles with transponder key systems. A locksmith can usually help you replace the damaged or lost transponder key. They will require information about your vehicle like the VIN number and model. They can then either program your current key to the car's computer system or cut new keys. This is a more expensive procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys. Some stores for automotive like AutoZone or Walmart can cut and copy transponder keys but may not be capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. It is recommended to contact an experienced and reputable locksmith company if you want to ensure that a professional is competent to complete the task. It was fairly easy to make duplicate keys for a car and then wire a vehicle prior to the advent of this latest technology. This technique was used to steal cars and allowed criminals drive away with stolen vehicles. The introduction of the transponder key has greatly reduced the likelihood of this happening but it's not completely eliminated. You can contact an expert to handle this for you in the event that you require a replacement transponder key, or if you lost yours. The cost will be higher than a standard key, but it's a safer and more secure method to ensure that your car cannot be started by someone else. Keyless Entry System As increasing numbers of people seek convenience, security and safety key fobs for cars have become a common feature. These little transmitters can unlock doors, set off the alarm for panic and open the trunk and even start your engine without having the physical key in your hand. They are easily tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. They're also expensive to replace, and you might require fob programming to connect your new key with your vehicle. The cost of cutting a standard fob for a key at a hardware shop is around ten dollars. However, the newest smart keys can be expensive if you must purchase them as well as programme them. Based on the model and make you could expect to pay between $200 to $500 to replace a fob in addition to the cost of having it cut and programmed to your car. There are other more advanced car keys systems that let you make use of your smartphone as an actual key. You can lock or unlock your car remotely using the app on your phone. You can also turn off and on your lights, activate your parking break, as well as perform other tasks depending on how close you are to the car. https://www.g28carkeys.co.uk/car-key-replacements-near-me/ are great for people who live in urban areas, or parents who are worried about your children leaving the car without supervision. Certain of these systems can be expensive however they're also more secure than a standard car key because they can monitor your location and stop you from accidentally locking your car or turning the engine on when you're far away. Some of these systems can help you locate your car in a garage and others can alert you if you open or close the doors. These systems can also be useful for businesses such as property managers who manage offices or vacation rentals. These systems permit them to check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those with permissions are allowed to enter and exit the premises. Dealership Some people might feel that they must go to the dealer if keys go missing. They will need to show proof of ownership, and occasionally the key must be purchased from the manufacturer, which can take a few days. But a dealer can also generally complete the task for you faster than locksmiths, and they may offer lower prices too. The key fob could require to be programmed for your car. This can be done at the dealer or by looking up the owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors, as well as turning lights and other electronics on and off. It could also involve pressing a series of buttons which acts as the code. Often, this can be performed by the driver but it is always better to have a technician do it. The year the car was manufactured, its model and make of the car will have an impact on the price as well. The cost of the service could 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 replace keys for that model. Some of the larger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan, have a large variety of models and are more familiar with the keys for the models they sell. Some brands are harder 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 in production. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn, and Eagle. Typically, these types of keys require reprogramming which is more difficult and more expensive than replacing the key itself. It is recommended that you get your spare key copied by a professional rather than getting a new one from a dealer. You will not have to pay the more expensive rates for after-hours or weekend services. If you do lose your keys, you can rest assured that the copied key will function.