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Car Keys Replacement Cost A few years ago, losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could bring your spare key to a key cutter for a new one that cost less than $10. Nowadays, however, the process is more complicated and costly. Read on to learn about the different types of keys for cars and what they'll cost you to replace them. Basic Key Fob Key fobs are an remote control as well as a key in one. It's a small, plastic device equipped with a button which you can press to unlock doors and hatchbacks, open the trunk, lower windows and maybe even start your car. The key fob is equipped with an electronic chip built in that communicates with the car's onboard systems to control functions like the starter. Key fobs for basic use are typically made of standard plastic and are fitted with a standard lock and key mechanism. These are similar to the ones found on old Pontiacs or Saturns. A basic key fob will cost anywhere between $50 and $100, but you'll be charged more if you require a replacement for one that has been lost or damaged. If your car was manufactured in the last five years, the chances that you'll have to visit the dealer for a replacement fob, as many newer cars require special equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith shop or key shop is usually in a position to provide this service for less. The type of fob you're using will also affect the price. Older cars have mechanical key fobs, while most recent models utilize transponder keys. Both of these types come with a variety of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the car instantly to rolling codes that change regularly to stop thieves from stealing and stealing your car's key fob data. Online key fobs may be less expensive than ones you can get from the dealer, but they may not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips inside their key fobs, which prevent them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob when it's purchased, but it's likely that it won't work. You can find information about programming your key fob by searching the manufacturer's site or the owner's manual. It's worth trying to do this yourself prior to going to the dealership or hiring an expert locksmith to do it. You can also check your car's warranty, roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance coverage to see if these will cover the cost of a replacement key fob. Transponder Key Most newer cars use keys that are known as a transponder key. The keys contain embedded chips in the head which transmits an electronic message to the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and launching the engine. This key type is more secure than standard flat metal keys because a transponder chip prevents the car from starting if it does not receive the right signal from the key. This technology was designed to prevent theft of cars since it is almost impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the right equipment. Additionally, many cars also have immobilizer systems that prevent them from starting if the key is not transponder-compatible. However, criminals have also come up with methods to steal and break into cars that are equipped with transponder keys. A locksmith can assist you replace your transponder key if it's damaged or stolen. They will need to have the information about your specific vehicle, such as the VIN number as well as the model and year. They will then cut a new one or program the existing one to your car's security system. This is a more expensive procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys. Some automotive stores, like AutoZone and Walmart, are also able to cut and copy the transponder keys, however they might not be able to reprogram the chip inside the key. It is best to call a reputable and experienced locksmith service to ensure that a professional is capable of handling the job. It was fairly easy to make duplicate keys for a car and hot-wire a vehicle before the advent of this modern technology. keys replacement of stealing cars was very frequent and allowed criminals to gain entry and drive off with stolen vehicles. The introduction of the transponder key has drastically reduced this crime, but it is not completely eliminated. You can get an expert to do this for you if you require a replacement transponder key, or if you've lost yours. It will cost more than a standard key but it's a much safer and more secure option to ensure that someone else cannot start your car. Keyless Entry System As more and more people demand convenience, safety and security keys for their cars are now a standard feature. These tiny transmitters can open doors, set off the panic alarm and open the trunk and even start your engine without having to have a physical key in your hand. They can be tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. It's expensive to replace keys, and you might require programming your new fob to connect it with your vehicle. A standard key fob can cost about ten dollars to cut at an hardware store, but the latest smart keys aren't cheap when you want to purchase the keys and have them programmed. You can expect to spend between $200 and $500 for an alternative key fob. This includes the cost to have it cut and programmed for your vehicle. Certain advanced car key systems let you make use of your smartphone as a key. With the application on your phone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car, and you can also switch on and off, turn off your parking brake, and perform other things depending on your proximity to the car. These are great for people who reside in urban areas or even parents who are worried about your kids leaving the car without supervision. Certain of these systems may be costly, but they are more secure than the standard car key. They monitor your location to stop you from locking or opening the car when you are far from. They also can help you find your car in a parking garage and can even warn you if the doors have been opened or closed. These systems are also beneficial for businesses like property managers who oversee offices or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to monitor access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those who have permissions are allowed to enter and exit the premises. Dealership Some people may think that they need to go to the dealership when keys go missing. They'll have to show proof of ownership, and occasionally the key must be purchased from the manufacturer, which could take a few days. However, a dealer can usually get the job done for you quicker than locksmiths, and they might have lower prices, as well. The key fob may still require to be programmed for your car. This can be done at the dealership or by reading the owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, as well as turning on and off lights and other electronic devices. It could even require pressing a series of buttons which act as codes. Most of the time, this is performed by the driver, but it is always better to have a technician perform it. The year the model, make and year of the car will have an impact on the price as well. Newer cars have high-tech transponder chips that will require pairing with the vehicle by a locksmith or dealer and the process could be more costly. A dealer that sells a certain model of car is more likely to know how to replace keys for that model. Some of the bigger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have a variety of models and are familiar with the keys. Certain brands are more difficult to work with. This includes some of the older companies that have shut down, or are old enough to have keys that are no longer being produced. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. These keys are usually reprogrammed. This is more expensive and difficult than replacing the key. In general, if you have a spare key, it is recommended to get it copied by a specialist instead of getting an alternative from the dealer. You will not have to pay the higher prices for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys you are assured that the cloned key will function.