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Car Keys Replacement Cost Not long ago, misplacing your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could take your spare key to a key cutter and get the replacement key for less than $10. Today, however the process is more complicated and costly. Learn more about the different types of car keys and how they'll cost you to replace them. Basic Key Fob A key fob is an remote control as well as key in one. It's tiny, plastic device with a button you can push to unlock doors, open the hatchback or trunk, lower windows, and possibly even start your car. More Material is equipped with an electronic chip built in that communicates with the car's onboard systems for controlling functions like the starter. Basic key fobs are usually made from standard plastic, and are fitted with a standard lock and key mechanism. They are identical to those found on old Pontiacs or Saturns. A basic key fob can cost between $50 to $100, however you'll be charged more if you need to replace one that's been damaged or lost. You'll probably need to visit a dealer if your vehicle is more than five years old. Many newer cars require special equipment to code and programme new keys. Locksmiths or key shops can usually do this for less however. The kind of fob you own can affect the price. Older vehicles use mechanical key fobs, whereas modern models usually come with transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of key fobs can come with a variety of functions. They can include keyless entry, which locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically, or rolling codes that are updated frequently to keep thieves from stealing the data on the key fob. You may be able to purchase an aftermarket key fob at a lower cost than what you'd pay at a dealership, but these may 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 dealers will program a second-hand key fob if it's brought in, however it's very likely that it won't function. You can get information on programming your key fob by searching the site of the manufacturer or in your owner's guide. It's worth trying to do this yourself before heading to the dealership or paying a locksmith to do it. You can also check your car's warranty and auto insurance policy to see if they cover the cost of replacing a key fob. Transponder Key Transponder keys are found in most newer cars. These keys contain an embedded chip inside the head of the key which transmits a signal the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and starting the engine. This key type is more secure than standard flat metal keys due to a transponder chip prevents the car from starting if it does not receive an appropriate signal from the key. This technology was created to prevent theft of cars because it is nearly impossible to duplicate these keys without the right equipment. Additionally, many vehicles also come with immobilizer systems that stop them from starting when keys that are not transponder compatible are used. Car thieves have devised methods of stealing cars with transponder key systems. A locksmith will usually be able to help you replace a lost or damaged transponder key. They'll require the details about your specific vehicle, including the VIN number, model and year. They will then cut a new key or program the existing one to your car's system. This is a costlier procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys. Some auto stores such as AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and copy transponder keys but may not be capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. If you want to ensure that a professional can handle the task, you should seek out a reputable and experienced locksmith company. It was quite simple to create duplicate keys for a car and hot-wire a car prior to the advent of this modern technology. This technique was used to steal cars and allowed criminals drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced this crime, but it isn't entirely eliminated it. You can contact an expert to handle this for you if you need a replacement transponder key, or if you've lost one. The cost will be higher than a standard key, but it is a much safer and better way to ensure that your car cannot be started by someone else. Keyless Entry System Car key fobs are now an everyday feature in cars as people are seeking convenience, security, and security. These transmitters can open doors, trigger the panic alarm, open the trunk, or start the engine without having a physical key. But they can also endure a lot of abuse from being tossed around, and they're more likely to be lost or stolen than traditional keys. It's expensive to replace them, and you may have to program your new fob to pair it with your vehicle. The cost of cutting a basic key fob in a hardware store is about ten dollars. However, the newest smart keys can be costly when you need to purchase them as well as programme them. It is possible to spend between $200 and $500 on an alternative key fob. This includes the cost to have it cut and programmed to fit in your car. There are also more advanced car key systems that allow you to make use of your smartphone as an actual key. By using the app on your phone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car and you can switch on and off, activate your parking brake, and do other things based on the proximity of your car. These apps are ideal for those who live in urban areas or if you have children and worry about your children being in the car without supervision. Certain of these systems may be costly, but they are more secure than a standard car key. They keep track of your location to prevent you from locking or opening the car if you are too far away. Certain of these systems can help you locate your car in a garage and others will notify you when you open or close the doors. These systems can also be useful for businesses like property managers who oversee offices or vacation rentals. These systems can allow them to monitor access rights of guests, cleaning staff, and maintenance workers, while making sure that only those with the appropriate permissions are allowed to get into and out of the space. Dealership Some people believe they need to go to the dealer when keys are missing. They'll need to provide proof of ownership, and sometimes the key must be ordered from the manufacturer which could take several days. A dealer is usually able to complete the job faster than a locksmith and may even charge less. It is likely that the key fob will need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done through the dealer or looking up the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, and switching off or on lights and other electronic devices. It may also require pressing a set of buttons that act as codes. Most of the time, this is done by the driver, but it is better to have a technician handle it. The year the car was manufactured, its model and make of the vehicle will have an impact on the price, too. Newer cars have high-tech transponder chips that will require pairing with the vehicle by a locksmith dealer and the process could be more expensive. A dealer who sells a particular model will be more likely to be able to change keys for the model. Some of the biggest manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have a variety of models and are familiar with keys. Other brands are more difficult to work with. This includes a few of the older companies that have shut down, or are old enough to have keys that are no longer being produced. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. These keys are usually modified. This is more expensive and time-consuming than replacing the key. It is recommended to have your spare key cloned by a specialist rather than buying a new one from a dealer. You can avoid paying the higher prices for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys, you can be sure that the duplicate will function.