The Reason Why Everyone Is Talking About Car Keys Replacement Cost Right Now

Car Keys Replacement Cost

It wasn't too long ago that misplacing keys to your car was not a big issue. You could bring your spare to key cutters and purchase an additional one for $10 or less.

Nowadays, however, the process is more complicated and expensive. Learn about the various types and costs of car keys.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob is both an remote as well as a key in one. It's a small, plastic piece with a button you can press to unlock doors or hatchbacks, open the trunk, lower windows, and possibly even start the car. The key fob has an electronic chip embedded that communicates with the car's onboard systems to control functions such as the starter.

A basic key fob is usually made of standard plastic and employs a lock-and key mechanism, like the type you'd find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob will cost between $50 to $100, however you'll pay more if need to replace one that's lost or damaged.

You'll likely have to visit a dealer if your car is older than five years old. Many newer cars require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or a key shop will usually be capable of doing this for less.

The cost of the fob you purchase can depend on the type you have. Older cars use mechanical keys, whereas modern models usually come with transponder keys or smart keys.  automotive car key replacement  can have a wide range of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically to rolling codes that change regularly to prevent thieves from taking and stealing your car's key fob data.

You may be able to buy an aftermarket key fob at a lower cost than what you'd pay at the dealership however they might not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru, have security chips in their key fobs that block them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob when it's brought in, but it's highly unlikely that it will function.

Check 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 first before paying 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 if they cover the cost of a brand new key fob.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are found in the majority of newer automobiles. The keys have an embedded chip in the key's head that transmits a signal to the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. The signal is used to unlock the car and start the engine. This key is more secure than a conventional flat metal key due to the transponder chip stops cars from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was developed to reduce car theft because it is nearly impossible to duplicate keys without the appropriate equipment.

Additionally, many vehicles also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting if keys that are not transponder compatible are used. However, car criminals have also come up with ways to break into and steal vehicles that have transponder keys.

A locksmith can usually help you replace a lost or damaged transponder key. They'll need details of your vehicle like the VIN number and model. They'll either program the key you have to the car's computer system or cut new keys. This is a costlier procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys.

Some auto stores such as AutoZone or Walmart can cut and copy transponder keys however, they may not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. It is best to call a reputable and experienced locksmith service to be sure that a professional is competent to complete the task.

It was fairly easy to create duplicate keys for a car and hot-wire a car prior to the advent of this latest technology. This method of stealing vehicles was common and allowed criminals to gain entry and drive off with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced the risk of this crime, but not entirely eliminated it.

You can call a professional to do this for you if you need an alternative transponder key or if you've lost yours. It's more expensive than a standard one, but it's a much safer and more reliable option to ensure that someone else will not be able to 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 devices can unlock doors, activate the panic alarm or open the trunk and even start your car without having to have a physical key in your hand. They can be thrown around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. That means they're expensive to replace, and you could need fob programming to pair your new one with your vehicle.

A basic key fob will cost about ten dollars to get cut at a hardware store, but the latest smart keys aren't cheap when you want to purchase them and have them programmed. It is possible to spend between $200 and $500 on the replacement key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed to fit in your car.

Certain advanced car key systems let you make use of your smartphone as an actual key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle via the app on your phone. You can also turn off and on your lights, activate your parking break, and do other tasks depending on the distance you're to the vehicle. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas or if you're a parent that's concerned about your children leaving the car without supervision.

Some of these systems can be expensive, but they are more secure than the standard car key. They track your location to prevent you from locking or starting the car when you are far away. They can also help you locate your car inside a parking garage and even alert you when the doors are shut or opened.

These kinds of systems could also be beneficial for businesses, like property managers who oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to monitor access rights for guests, cleaning staff, and maintenance staff, as well as making sure that only those with the appropriate permissions are allowed to get in and out of the space.

Dealership

Some people may feel that they need to go to the dealership when keys go missing. They'll need to provide proof of ownership, and occasionally keys must be purchased from the manufacturer, which could take several days. But a dealer can also generally complete the task for you much faster than locksmiths, and might have lower prices, too.

The key fob could require programming to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership, or by reading your owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, and switching off and on lights and other electronic devices. It can even involve pressing a series of buttons which acts as an electronic code. Often, this can be done by the driver, but it is better to have a technician perform it.

The cost can also be affected by the year, make and type of vehicle. Modern cars feature high-tech transponder chips that will need to be paired with the car by a locksmith or a dealer and the process could be more expensive.

A dealer that sells a certain model will be more likely to know how to change keys for the model. Some of the biggest manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have a variety of models and are well-versed in keys.

Some brands are harder to work with. Some of the more established brands that have been shut down or are so old that they no longer make keys are included. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are a few of the companies that are older and do not produce keys anymore. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these types of keys have to be reprogrammed, which can be more complicated and costly than replacing the key itself.

It is recommended that you have your spare key cloned by a professional rather than purchasing an entirely new one from a dealer. You can avoid paying the more expensive rates for after-hours or weekend services. Then, if you lose your keys, you can rest easy knowing that the key cloned will work.