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Car Keys Replacement Cost A few years ago, losing your keys to your car wasn't an issue. You could take your spare to an a key cutter and buy an additional one for $10 or less. Today, however, the process can be more complicated and expensive. Read on to learn about the different types of keys for cars and how they will cost you to replace. Basic Key Fob A key fob can be described as an electronic remote control and an actual key in one. It's a small, plastic device that contains buttons or buttons that you push to unlock the doors and open the trunk or hatchback, open the windows, and perhaps start the car. The key fob has a built-in electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard system to manage functions such as the starter. A basic key fob is usually constructed of plastic that employs a lock-and key mechanism, like the one you'd find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob may cost between $50 and $100, but the actual cost is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one. If your car was made in the last five years, the chances are that you'll need to go to the dealership to get 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 perform this task for less, though. vehicle key replacement of your fob can also depend on the type of fob you own. Older cars use mechanical keys, whereas the most recent models typically have transponder keys or smart keys. Both of these types can have a wide range of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the car in a controlled manner to rolling codes that are updated regularly to prevent thieves from taking and using the key fob information of your car. You may be able to purchase an aftermarket key fob online for less than the price you'd pay at the dealership, but these may not work with your car. Certain manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips that block their key fobs from working with third-party devices. Some dealers can program an aftermarket key fob when it's purchased, but it's very likely that it won't function. You can get information on programming your key fob by visiting the website of the manufacturer or the owner's manual. It's worth trying this yourself before going to the dealership or hiring an expert locksmith. You may also want to check your car's warranty and auto insurance policy to see if they cover the cost of replacing a key fob. Transponder Key Transponder keys are found in the majority of newer automobiles. They have an embedded chip in the head of the key that transmits a signal to the vehicle when it is inserted into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and launching the engine. This type of key is more secure than conventional flat metal keys because transponder chips stop the car from starting if it does not receive the right signal from the key. This technology was developed to prevent theft of cars since it is almost impossible to duplicate these kinds of keys without the appropriate equipment. Additionally, many vehicles also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting when the key is not transponder-compatible. However, criminals have also come up with ways to gain access and steal cars that are equipped with transponder keys. A locksmith will usually be able to help you replace the damaged or lost transponder key. They'll require the information about your specific vehicle, including the VIN number, model and year. They will then either program your current key to the car's computer system or cut an entirely new one. This is a more costly process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys. Some automotive stores like AutoZone or Walmart can cut and copy transponder keys but they aren't capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. You should contact an experienced and reliable locksmith company if you want to be sure that a professional is able to handle the task. It was relatively easy to create a duplicate key for a car, and then wire a vehicle prior to the advent of this new technology. This method of stealing vehicles was common and allowed criminals to gain entry and drive away with stolen vehicles. The advent of the transponder key has drastically reduced this crime, but it is not completely eliminated. If you need a replacement transponder key or you have lost yours, the best option is to call a professional and have them make it for you. The cost will be higher than a conventional key, but it is a much safer and better way to ensure that your car cannot be started by someone else. Keyless Entry System Car key fobs are now an everyday feature in cars, as more and more people want convenience, security, and security. These transmitters are able to open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, or start the engine without a physical key. But they can also endure a lot of abuse from being tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen than traditional keys. It's costly to replace keys, and you might need to program your new key to pair it with your vehicle. The cost of cutting a standard fob for a key at an hardware store is around ten dollars. However, the latest smart keys can be costly when you need to purchase them as well as programme them. You should expect to pay between $200 and $500 on a replacement key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed to fit in your car. Some sophisticated car key systems allow you to use your smartphone as an actual key. With the application on your phone, you can remote lock or unlock your car and you can also switch on and off, as well as activate your parking brake, and do other things based on the proximity of your car. These apps are ideal for those who live in urban areas or if you have children and are worried about them leaving the car unattended. Some of these systems could be expensive, but they are more secure than the standard car key. They keep track of your location to prevent you from locking or opening the car if you're too far away. Some of these systems can help you locate your car in a garage, and others will notify you when you shut or open the doors. These systems can also be useful for companies such as property managers who oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to monitor the access rights of guests cleaners, guests, and maintenance workers, while ensuring that only those with the right permissions can get into and out of the space. Dealership Some people feel they must visit a dealer when their keys are missing. They will need to show proof of ownership, and occasionally the key has to be ordered from the manufacturer which could take several days. But a dealer will typically complete the task for you faster than locksmiths, and they may have cheaper prices, as well. It is likely that the key fob will still need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by consulting the owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, as well as turning on and off lights and other electronic devices. It may even require pressing a series of buttons which act as a code. This is often handled by the driver, but it's always better to let a technician manage it. The year, make and model of the vehicle will impact the cost as well. The cost of the service can be affected by the year, model and model of the vehicle. A dealer who sells a particular model of car is more likely to have the knowledge to replace keys for the model. Some of the bigger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a wide number of models, and are more acquainted with the keys for the specific models. Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have shut down or that are old enough that they no longer produce keys are listed. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. Typically, these keys need to be reprogrammed, which can be more difficult and more expensive than replacing the key itself. It is recommended to have your spare key cloned by a professional instead of purchasing a new one from the dealer. That way you can avoid having to pay the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. If you lose your keys, you can be sure that the cloned key will work.