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Car Keys Replacement Cost In the past, losing your car keys was not an issue. You could take your spare to an a key cutter and buy a new one for just $10 or less. Today, however the process is more complex and expensive. Learn about the different types and costs for car keys. Basic Key Fob A key fob can be described as an electronic remote and a key in one. It's tiny, plastic device equipped with a button which you can press to unlock doors and hatchbacks, open the trunk, open windows, roll them down and maybe even start the vehicle. The key fob has a built-in electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard computer system to control functions such as the starter. A basic key fob is usually constructed of plastic that utilizes a standard lock-and-key mechanism, like the type you'd find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob will cost between $50-$100, but you'll pay more if require a replacement for one that's been lost or damaged. If your car was built in the last five years, the chances are you'll need to visit the dealer to get a replacement fob since many modern cars 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 kind of fob you own will also affect the price. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, while the most recent models typically have transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of keys can have a wide range of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the car automatically to changing codes on a regular basis to stop thieves from stealing and using the data from your key fob. Key fobs purchased online may be less expensive than ones you can get from the dealer, but they may not work with your vehicle. Some manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips in their key fobs, which prevent them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealerships can program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in however there's a high chance it won't continue to function. Go through your owner's manual or go to the manufacturer's site for more information on programming your specific model's key fob. It's worth trying this yourself before going to the dealership or hiring an expert locksmith. You can also look at the warranty of your vehicle, the roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance coverage to see if these cover the costs of a replacement key fob. Transponder Key Most newer cars use a type of key called a transponder key. The keys have an embedded chip inside the head of the key which transmits a signal the vehicle when it is inserted into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and launching the engine. This key is more secure than a traditional flat metal key because the transponder chip blocks cars from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was designed to reduce car theft because it is almost impossible to duplicate these keys without the right equipment. Additionally, many vehicles also come with immobilizer systems that stop them from starting when a non-transponder key is used. However, car criminals have also come up with methods to steal and break into cars that are equipped with transponder keys. A locksmith can assist you to replace your transponder keys if it is damaged or lost. They'll require the details about your specific vehicle, such as the VIN number, model and year. Then they will either cut a new key or program the current one to your car's security system. This process is a bit more expensive than having a car dealership cut and program a replacement key. Some automotive stores, like AutoZone and Walmart can also be capable of cutting and copying the transponder key, however they may not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. It is best to call an experienced and reliable locksmith firm to ensure that a professional will be competent to complete the task. Before the advent of technology like this, it was relatively simple to create duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a car. This technique was used to steal cars and allowed criminals to drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced this crime, but they haven't completely eliminated it completely. You can get an expert to do this for you if you need an extra transponder key or if you've lost one. It will cost more than a standard one, but it's a safer and more reliable option to ensure that someone else is unable to start your car. Keyless Entry System As increasing numbers of people want convenience, security and safety key fobs for cars are now a standard feature. These devices can open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, or start the engine without an actual key. However, they also endure a lot of abuse from being tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen than metal keys. This means they're costly to replace, and you may require fob programming in order to pair your new key with your vehicle. A basic key fob costs around ten dollars to get cut at the hardware store, however the most recent smart keys aren't cheap if you're looking to purchase them and then have them programmed. You should expect to pay between $200 and $500 for a replacement key fob. This includes the cost to have it cut and programmed for your vehicle. Some sophisticated car key systems let you use your phone as an actual key. With the application on your phone, you can remote lock or unlock your car, and you can also turn your lights on and off, as well as activate your parking brake, and perform other things based on the proximity of your car. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas or even parents who are worried about your children leaving the car without supervision. Some of these systems could be costly, but they are more secure than a regular car key. They monitor your location to stop you from accidentally locking or starting the car if you're far away. They can also assist you to find your car in a parking garage, and some can warn you when the doors are opened or closed. These types of systems can also be useful for businesses, like property managers that oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to monitor access rights of guests as well as cleaning staff and maintenance workers, while ensuring that only those with the right permissions can get in and out of the space. Dealership Some people might feel that they have to go to the dealer if their keys are lost. They'll need to provide proof of ownership, and occasionally keys must be ordered 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, too. It is likely that the key fob will still need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done through the dealer or reading the owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors and turning lights and other electronic components on and off. replacement key for car near me could also require pressing a set of buttons that acts like a code. Most of the time, this is done by the driver, but it is better to have a technician do it. The year, make and model of the vehicle will have an impact on the price, too. Modern cars feature sophisticated transponder chips which will need to be paired with the vehicle by a locksmith or a dealer and the process could be more costly. A dealer who sells a specific brand of car will be more likely to have the knowledge to change keys for that model. Some of the bigger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan, have a large number of models and are more familiar with the keys that are used for the models they sell. Certain brands are difficult to work with. This includes some of the more established companies that have shut down, or are old enough to have keys that are no longer being produced. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are among the older companies that do not produce keys anymore. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these kinds of keys have to be reprogrammed, which can be more difficult and expensive than replacing the key itself. In general, if you have a spare key, it is best to get it copied by a specialist rather than getting a replacement from the dealer. You will not have to pay the higher prices for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys, you can be sure that the cloned key will work.