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Car Keys Replacement Cost A few years ago, losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could take your spare keys to a key cutter and get an additional one for $10 or less. Nevertheless, the process has become more complex and expensive. Read on to learn about the various types of car keys and how they can cost you to replace. Basic Key Fob Key fobs are an electronic remote and a key in one. It's a small, plastic device that contains buttons or buttons that you push to unlock the doors and trunk, open the hatchback, lower the windows and maybe even start the car. key replacements for cars comes with an electronic chip in it that communicates with your car's onboard systems to control functions like the starter. Basic key fobs are usually made from standard plastic, and are fitted with a standard lock and key mechanism. They are similar to the ones found on old Pontiacs as well as Saturns. A basic key fob costs between $50-$100, but you'll pay more if require a replacement for one that's damaged or lost. You'll likely have to visit a dealer if the car is more than five years old. A lot of newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or key shop will typically be in a position to provide this service for less. The cost of your fob can be affected by the type you own. Older vehicles use mechanical key fobs, whereas the most recent models typically have transponder keys or smart keys. Both of these types can have a wide range of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle instantly to rolling codes that are updated regularly to prevent thieves from taking and using the key fob information of your car. It's possible to purchase an aftermarket key fob for less than what you'd pay at a dealership however, they may not be compatible with your vehicle. Some manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from interacting with third-party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in, but there's a good chance it won't continue to work. Go through your owner's manual or visit the manufacturer's website for more information on programming your specific model's key fob. It is recommended to try this yourself prior to paying for a locksmith or going to the dealer. You can also check the warranty of your vehicle, the roadside assistance and auto-insurance coverage to determine if they will cover the cost of a replacement fob for your key. Transponder Key Most newer cars use a type of key called transponder keys. The keys have a chip embedded in the head of the key which transmits a signal the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and begin the engine. This key is more secure than the traditional flat metal keys because the transponder chip blocks the car from starting without the proper signal. This technology was designed to stop car theft since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these keys without the right equipment. Many cars are also equipped with immobilizers that prevent them from being started if they are used with keys that do not have a transponder. However, thieves have also devised methods to steal and break into cars that are equipped with transponder keys. A locksmith is usually able to help you replace a lost or damaged transponder key. They'll need the details of your particular vehicle, such as the VIN number along with the year, model and year. They will then either cut a new key or program the existing one to your car's security system. This is a costlier procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys. Some automotive stores, like AutoZone and Walmart are also capable of cutting and re-copying the transponder keys, however they might not be capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. If you want to be sure that a professional can handle the task, you should call a reputable and experienced locksmith business. Before the invention of this technology it was quite easy for someone to make duplicate car keys and then hot wire a car. This method of stealing cars was very common and allowed criminals to gain entry and drive off with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have greatly reduced the risk of this crime, but they haven't completely eliminated it completely. If you require a new transponder key, or have lost yours, the best solution is to call an expert and have them create it for you. The cost will be more than a conventional key, but it is a much safer and better method to ensure that your car cannot be started by someone else. Keyless Entry System Car key fobs are becoming a standard feature of vehicles as more people seek convenience, security and security. They can open doors, trigger the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, or start the engine without having the physical key. They can be tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. 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 in a hardware store is about ten dollars. However, the latest smart keys can be costly when you need to purchase them, as well as program them. Depending on your vehicle make and model you can expect to pay between $200-$500 for a replacement fob, in addition to the cost of having it cut and programmed to your car. Some advanced car key systems let you make use of your smartphone as an actual key. You can lock or unlock your car remotely using the app on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, activate your parking break, and perform other tasks depending on how close you are to your car. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas, or if you have children and are worried about your children being in the car without supervision. Certain of these systems may be expensive, but are more secure than the standard car key. They keep track of your location to prevent you from locking or starting the car if you are too far away. They can also assist you to find your car in garages that have parking spaces, and some can warn you if the doors have been opened or closed. These kinds of systems can also be useful for businesses, like property managers who manage office space or vacation rentals. These systems are able to monitor access rights for guests as well as cleaning staff and maintenance workers, while ensuring that only those who have the proper permissions can go into and out of the space. Dealership Some people may feel that they must go to the dealer if keys go missing. They'll need to provide proof of ownership, and occasionally the key has to be ordered from the manufacturer, which could take several days. A dealer can usually do the job more quickly than a locksmith, and may even cost less. It is likely that the key fob will require programming to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership, or by reading your owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, and switching off or on lights and other electronic devices. It may also require pressing a set of buttons that act as codes. This is usually handled by the driver, but it's always better to let an expert handle it. The year the car was manufactured, its model and make of the car will have an impact on the price, too. The cost of the service could be affected by the year, make and model of the vehicle. A dealer who sells a specific brand of car 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 number of models, and are more acquainted with the keys for the models they sell. Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the more established brands that have been shut down or are so old that they no longer produce keys are included. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. These keys are usually modified. This is more expensive and difficult than replacing the key. If you have a spare key, it is usually best to have it cloned at an expert instead of obtaining an exchange from the dealer. So, you don't have to worry about having to pay for the more expensive after-hours or weekend rates. Then, if you do lose your keys you can rest easy knowing that the copied key will function.