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Car Keys Replacement Cost In the past, losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could take your spare to key cutters and purchase an additional one for $10 or less. However the process has become more complicated and costly. Find out more about the different types of keys for cars and what they'll cost you to replace. Basic Key Fob A key fob can be described as an electronic remote and a key in one. It's a small, plastic device that contains one or more buttons that you can push to unlock the doors, open the trunk or hatchback, lower the windows, and possibly start the car. The key fob is equipped with an electronic chip embedded that communicates with your car's onboard systems for controlling functions like the starter. A basic key fob is typically made of standard plastic and employs a lock-and key mechanism, such as the kind you might find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob may cost anywhere from $50 to $100, but the actual cost is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one. If your car was built within the last five years, chances are that you'll need 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 typically can perform this task for less, however. The type of fob you have can also impact the cost. Older vehicles have mechanical key fobs while the most recent models utilize transponder keys. Key fobs of both types can be equipped with a variety of functions. They may include keyless entry, which locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically, or rolling codes that change regularly to prevent thieves from stealing the information on the key fob. You may be able to purchase an aftermarket key fob for less than what you'd pay at the dealer however they might not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from interfacing with third party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket key fob if it's brought in, but it's likely that it won't work. Check your owner's manual or visit the manufacturer's website to find information about programming your particular model's key fob. It's worth trying to do this yourself prior to going to the dealership or paying an expert locksmith. You may also want to check your vehicle's warranty and auto-insurance policy to see whether they will cover the cost of a new key fob. Transponder Key Transponder keys are found in most newer cars. They have an embedded chip in the head which transmits an information to the vehicle after it is inserted in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and begin the engine. This type of key is more secure than standard flat metal keys because transponder chips stop the car from starting if it fails to receive a signal from the correct key. This technology was designed to prevent theft of cars because it is almost impossible to duplicate these keys without the proper equipment. Additionally, many cars also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting when a non-transponder key is used. Car thieves have come up with methods to steal vehicles with transponder key systems. A locksmith can help replace your transponder key if it is damaged or lost. They'll need the information about your specific vehicle, including the VIN number, model and year. Then, they'll cut a new key or program the existing one to your car's security system. This is a more costly 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 key, however they may not be in a position to reprogram the chip inside the key. You should contact an experienced and reputable locksmith firm to ensure that a professional will be capable of handling the job. It was relatively easy to create a duplicate key for a car and then wire a vehicle prior to the advent of this latest technology. This method of stealing vehicles was frequent and allowed criminals to enter and drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced this crime, but not entirely eliminated it. car key replacements can call an expert to handle this for you in the event that you require an alternative transponder key or if you lost yours. The cost will be higher than a standard key, but it is a much 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 a standard feature of vehicles as people are seeking convenience, safety and security. These tiny devices can unlock doors, activate the alarm for panic, open the trunk, and even start your engine without needing to carry a physical key in your hands. They can also be subject to some abuse from being tossed around, and are more likely to be lost or stolen than the metal keys. That means they're expensive to replace, and you may require fob programming to connect your new key with your vehicle. The cost of cutting a standard key fob in an hardware store is around 10 dollars. However, the latest smart keys can be expensive when you need to purchase them as well as programme them. You can expect to spend between $200 and $500 on a replacement key fob. This includes the cost to have it cut and programmed for your vehicle. Some sophisticated car key systems allow you to use your smartphone as keys. You can lock or unlock your car by using an app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn on and off your lights, activate your parking break, as well as perform other tasks based on the distance you're to the vehicle. These are perfect for those who reside in urban areas, or if you have kids and worry about children leaving the car unattended. Some of these systems could 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 too far from. Some of these systems can help you locate your car in a garage and others can notify you when you close or open the doors. These kinds of systems could also be beneficial to companies, such as property managers who manage vacation rentals or office spaces. These systems are able to monitor access rights of guests cleaners, guests, and maintenance workers, while ensuring that only those with the right permissions can get in and out of the space. Dealership Some people believe they need to visit a dealer when their keys are missing. They'll need to provide proof of ownership, and occasionally the key must be purchased from the manufacturer, which could take a few days. A dealer is usually able to complete the job quicker than a locksmith and may even cost less. The key fob may still require to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done through the dealer or consulting your owner's guide. It involves opening and closing doors, as well as turning on and off lights and other electronic devices. It could even require pressing a series of buttons that act as codes. This can often be done by the driver, but it is always best to let a technician handle it. The year the car was manufactured, its model and make of the car will impact the cost as well. The cost of the service may also be affected by the year, model and model of the vehicle. A dealer that sells a certain model of car is more likely to be able to change keys for that model. Some of the bigger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have several models and are familiar with the keys. Certain brands are more difficult to work with. This includes a few of the older firms that have been shut down or are old enough to have keys that are no longer being produced. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are a few of the older companies that do not produce keys anymore. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. The keys are typically modified. This can be more expensive and complicated than replacing the key. If you have a spare key it is best to have it cloned at a specialist instead of getting a replacement from the dealer. You will avoid paying higher rates for after-hours and weekend services. Then, if you do lose your keys you can rest easy knowing that the cloned key will work.