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Car Keys Replacement Cost A few years ago, losing your car keys was not a big deal. You could take your spare to an a key cutter and buy a new one for $10 or less. Nevertheless the process has gotten more complicated and costly. Learn more about the different types of keys for cars and what they can cost you to replace them. Basic Key Fob A key fob can be described as a remote control and key in one. It's a small, plastic device with a button can be pushed to open doors or hatchbacks, open the trunk, roll down windows, and possibly even start the vehicle. The key fob comes with an electronic chip in it that communicates with your car's onboard systems to regulate functions such as the starter. Basic key fobs are usually made from standard plastic, and utilize a standard lock and key mechanism. They're identical to those found on old Pontiacs as well as Saturns. A basic key fob could cost between $50 and $100, but the true cost comes when you have to replace a lost or damaged one. You'll likely need to visit a dealer if the car is newer than five years. Most newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or key shop is usually capable of doing this for less. The cost of your fob can depend on the type you own. Older vehicles use mechanical key fobs, whereas modern models usually come with transponder keys or smart keys. Key fobs of both kinds can come with a range of features. They may include keyless entry, which locks and unlocks your car automatically or rolling codes that change frequently to stop thieves from intercepting the data on the key fob. You might be able to buy an aftermarket key fob at a lower cost than what you'd pay at the dealer however they might not be compatible with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that prevent 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 it won't continue to work. You can find information about programming your key fob by looking up the site of the manufacturer or in the owner's guide. It's worth trying this yourself prior to going to the dealer or hiring an expert locksmith to do it. You may also want to check your vehicle's warranty and auto-insurance policy to determine whether they will cover the cost of replacing a key fob. Transponder Key The majority of newer cars have keys that are known as transponder keys. They have an embedded chip in the head that transmits an information to the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and for starting the engine. This key is more secure than a traditional flat metal keys because the transponder chip stops cars from starting without the proper signal. This technology was developed to prevent theft of cars since it is nearly impossible to duplicate these kinds of keys without the proper equipment. Many cars are also fitted with immobilizers that stop them from starting when they are operated with a key that is not transponder. However, car thieves have also devised methods to steal and break into cars that are equipped with transponder keys. A locksmith can usually help you replace a lost or damaged transponder key. They will need to have the details about your specific vehicle, such as the VIN number, model and year. Then, they'll either cut a new key or program the current one to your car's system. This procedure is more expensive than simply having a car dealership cut and program a replacement key. Some stores for automotive, such as AutoZone and Walmart are also capable of cutting and re-copying the transponder keys, however they might not be in a position to reprogram the chip in the key. It is recommended to contact a reputable and experienced locksmith service to be sure that a professional will be capable of handling the job. Before the advent of this technology it was quite easy for someone to make a duplicate car key and then hot wire a car. This method of stealing cars was very common and allowed criminals to get into and drive off with stolen vehicles. The introduction of the transponder key has drastically reduced this crime but it's not completely eliminated. If you require a new transponder key or you have lost yours, the best option is to call a professional and have them do it for you. The cost will be more than a standard key, but it's a safer and better method to ensure that your vehicle is not able to be started by anyone else. Keyless Entry System Car key fobs are now an everyday feature in cars, as more and people are seeking convenience, security and security. These little transmitters can unlock doors, activate the alarm for panic or open the trunk and even start your car without having the physical key in your hands. However, they also endure some abuse from being tossed around, and they're more likely to get lost or stolen than traditional keys. This means they're costly to replace, and you could require fob programming in order to pair your new one with your vehicle. A basic key fob costs ten or so dollars to cut at a hardware store, but the most recent smart keys aren't cheap when you need to buy the keys and have them programmed. Based on your car's model and make you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $500 for a replacement fob and the cost of having it cut and programmed to your car. There are other more advanced car keys systems that allow you to use your smartphone as a key. By using the app on your smartphone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car and you can also switch on and off, activate your parking brake, and do other things depending on your proximity to the car. These are great for people who live in urban areas, or even if you're a parent that's worried about your children leaving the car unattended. Some of these systems can be expensive, but are more secure than a regular car key. They monitor your location to stop you from locking or starting the car if you are too far from. They also can help you locate your car inside parking garages and even alert you when the doors are opened or closed. These systems can also be useful for companies such as property managers who manage office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems permit them to control 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 must go to the dealership when their keys are lost. They'll have to show proof of ownership, and occasionally keys must be ordered from the manufacturer, which could take several days. But a dealer can also typically complete the task for you much faster than locksmiths, and may offer lower prices too. The key fob may still require to be programmed for your car. This can be done at the dealership, or by consulting your owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, and turning on and off lights and other electronic devices. It could even require pressing a series of buttons which act as an electronic code. This is usually handled by the driver, but it's best to let a technician handle it. The cost can also be dependent on the year, make and type of vehicle. Modern cars come with sophisticated transponder chips which will require pairing with the vehicle by a locksmith or a dealer and the process may be more costly. A dealer who sells a specific brand of car will be more likely to know how to change keys for that model. key car replacement of the biggest 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. Some of the older brands that have closed or are old enough that they no longer manufacture keys are included. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are some of the more established companies that do not produce keys anymore. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these types of keys need to be reprogrammed which is more difficult and expensive than replacing the key itself. It is recommended to get your spare key copied by a professional instead of buying an entirely new one from the dealer. You can avoid paying the more expensive rates for after-hours or weekend services. If you lose your keys you can be sure that the cloned key will function.