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Car Keys Replacement Cost In the past, losing your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could take your spare key to a key cutter for a new one that cost less than $10. Today, however the process can be more complicated and costly. Learn more about the various types of keys for cars and how they can cost you to replace. Basic Key Fob Key fobs are an remote as well as a key in one. It's a small plastic device that has a button or buttons that you 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 the car's onboard systems for controlling functions such as the starter. A basic key fob is typically constructed of plastic that uses a regular lock-and-key mechanism, such as the kind you might find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost anywhere between $50 to $100, however you'll pay more if need to replace one that's lost or damaged. You'll likely need to visit a dealer if the car is newer than five years. Many newer cars require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or key shop is usually in a position to provide this service for less. The type of fob you're using can affect the price. Older cars use mechanical key fobs while the latest models use transponder keys. Both types of key fobs are able to be fitted with a variety of features. They could include keyless entry which locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically, or rolling codes that change frequently to stop thieves from intercepting the data on your key fob. It's possible to buy an aftermarket key fob for less than what you'd pay at the dealership however they might not work with your car. automotive car key replacement , including Audi and Subaru have security chips that block their key fobs from interfacing with third-party devices. Some dealerships can program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in but there's a good chance that it won't function. You can find information about programming your key fob by visiting the website of the manufacturer or the owner's guide. Try to do this yourself first before paying for a locksmith or going to the dealer. You can also look at your vehicle's warranty, roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance policy to see if they cover the costs of a replacement fob for your key. Transponder Key The majority of newer cars have keys of a different type, known as a transponder key. The keys have an embedded chip inside the head of the key that sends a signal to the vehicle when it is put into 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 since a transponder chip prevents the car from starting if it fails to receive the right signal from the key. This technology was designed to stop car theft since it is nearly impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the appropriate equipment. In addition, many cars also come with immobilizer systems that stop them from starting if keys that are not transponder compatible are used. However, thieves have also devised ways to steal and break into vehicles that have transponder keys. A locksmith can usually assist you in replacing a lost or damaged transponder key. They'll need details about your car, such as the VIN number and model. They'll either program your current key to the car's computer system or cut new keys. This process is a bit more expensive than getting a car dealership to cut and program a replacement key. Some auto stores, such as AutoZone and Walmart can also be capable of cutting and re-copying the transponder key, however they may not be able to reprogram the chip in the key. You should contact an experienced and reputable locksmith firm to ensure that a professional is capable of handling the job. It was relatively easy to make a duplicate key for a car and hot-wire a vehicle before 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 this crime, but it isn't entirely eliminated it. If you need a new transponder key, or have lost yours, the best option is to call an expert and have them make it for you. The cost will be higher than a traditional key but it is a much safer and better method to ensure that your car cannot be started by someone else. Keyless Entry System As increasing numbers of people want security, convenience, and safety, car key fobs have become a standard feature. They can open doors, trigger the panic alarm, open the trunk, or start the engine without a physical key. They can also endure a lot of abuse from being tossed around, and they are more likely to get lost or stolen than traditional keys. That means they're expensive to replace, and you might require fob programming in order to pair the new key with your vehicle. A basic key fob costs around ten dollars to cut at a hardware store, but the most recent smart keys can be expensive if you're looking to purchase them and then have them programmed. You should expect to pay between $200 and $500 on the replacement key fob. This includes the cost to have it cut and programmed for your car. Some sophisticated car key systems let you use your smartphone as keys. You can lock or unlock your car via the app on your phone. You can also turn off and on your lights, turn on your parking break, and perform other things based on the proximity to your vehicle. These are great for people who reside in urban areas, or even parents who are concerned about your children leaving the car unattended. Certain of these systems are expensive, but they're also more secure than a regular car key because they can locate you and prevent you from accidentally locking the car or turning off the engine when you're far away. They can also help you locate your car in parking garages and even alert you when the doors are opened or closed. These systems can also be useful for businesses like property managers who manage office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems let them monitor access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also make sure that only those who have permissions are permitted to enter and exit. Dealership Some people feel they must go to the dealer if their keys are missing. The dealer will request proof of ownership and request keys from the manufacturer. This 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 might need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done either at the dealership or by consulting your owner's guide. It involves opening and closing doors, as well as turning lights and other electronic components on and off. It could also require pressing a set of buttons which acts as an electronic code. This can often be done by the drivers, however it's always better to let a technician handle it. The cost will also be dependent on the year, make and type of vehicle. The cost of the service can also be affected by the year, make and model of the vehicle. A dealer who sells specific brand of car is more likely know how to replace the keys for that particular vehicle. Some of the bigger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler, have many models and are well-versed in the keys. Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the more established brands that have closed or are old enough that they no longer manufacture keys are included. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are among the older companies that have stopped producing keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. The keys are typically changed. This can be more expensive and complicated than replacing the key. In general, if you have a spare key it is recommended to have it cloned at an expert instead of obtaining an alternative from the dealer. That way you can avoid having to pay the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. Then, if you lose your keys, you can rest assured that the copied key will work.