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Car Keys Replacement Cost It wasn't long ago that losing keys to cars was not a major issue. You could take your spare to a key cutter and get an additional one for $10 or less. Today, however, the process is more complicated and expensive. Learn about the various types and costs for keys for cars. Basic Key Fob Key fobs are an remote control as well as 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 maybe even start your car. The key fob comes with an electronic chip embedded that communicates with your car's onboard systems to regulate functions such as the starter. A basic key fob is generally made of standard plastic and employs a lock-and key mechanism, such as the type you'd find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob will cost between $50-$100, but you'll be charged more if you require a replacement for one that's been lost or damaged. If your car was manufactured in the last five years, the chances are that you'll need to visit the dealership for a replacement fob as many newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or key shop will typically be capable of doing this for less. The type of fob you have can affect the price. Older cars have mechanical keys, whereas the most recent models typically have transponder keys or smart keys. Key fobs of both types are able to be fitted with a variety of features. They may include keyless entry, which locks and unlocks your car automatically, or rolling codes that are updated regularly to prevent thieves from intercepting the data on the key fob. Online key fobs may be cheaper than those you can purchase from a dealer, but they might not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru include security chips in their key fobs that block them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealerships will program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in, but there's a good possibility that it won't function. Go through your owner's manual or go to the manufacturer's site for information about programming your particular model's key fob. It's worth trying to do this yourself prior to going to the dealer or hiring a locksmith to do it. You can also check 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 modern cars utilize keys of a different type, known as transponder keys. These keys contain an embedded chip in the key's head which transmits a signal the vehicle when it is inserted into the ignition cylinder. The signal is used to unlock the car and begin the engine. This key type is more secure than standard flat metal keys since a transponder chip prevents the car from starting if it does not receive an appropriate signal from the key. This technology was developed to prevent theft of cars since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the appropriate equipment. Additionally, many cars also come with immobilizer systems that stop them from starting when keys that are not transponder compatible are used. However, criminals have also come up with methods to break into and steal cars with transponder keys. automotive car key replacement can assist you to replace your transponder keys if it's damaged or lost. They'll require the details about your specific vehicle, such as the VIN number as well as the model and year. They will then either program the key you have to the car's system, or cut a new one. This process is a bit more expensive than cutting a key from a dealership and program a replacement key. Some automotive stores, like AutoZone and Walmart are also capable of cutting and copying a transponder key, but they may not be able to reprogram the chip in the key. It is best to call an experienced and reputable locksmith company if you want to ensure that a professional will be competent to complete the task. Before the invention of technology like this it was fairly simple to create duplicate car keys and then hot wire a vehicle. This method of stealing vehicles was widespread and allowed criminals to get into and drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have greatly reduced this crime, but it isn't entirely eliminated it. You can get an expert to do this for you if you need a replacement transponder key, or if you've lost yours. The cost will be higher than a standard key, but it's a safer and better method to ensure that your vehicle can't be started by anyone else. Keyless Entry System As increasing numbers of people seek security, convenience, and safety keys for their cars have become a standard feature. These transmitters are able to open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, or start the engine without a physical key. They can also take some abuse from being tossed around, and are more likely to get lost or stolen than the metal keys. It's costly to replace them, and you might need to program your new key to pair it with your vehicle. The cost of cutting a basic key fob at an hardware store is around 10 dollars. However, the latest smart keys can be costly if you have to buy them, as well as program them. Based on your car's model and make you can expect to shell out between $200-$500 for a replacement fob in addition to the cost of having it cut and programmed to your vehicle. Some advanced car key systems let you use your phone as a key. You can lock or unlock your car by using an app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, activate your parking break, and do other tasks based on the proximity to your vehicle. These apps are ideal for those who live in urban areas or if you have kids and worry about them leaving the car unattended. Some of these systems could be costly, but they are more secure than a regular car key. They track your location to prevent you from locking or opening the car when you are far from. They can also help you locate your car in parking garages and can even warn you when the doors are opened or closed. These kinds of systems can also be useful for companies, such as property managers who manage office space or vacation rentals. These systems let them check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. They can also make sure that only those with permissions are allowed to enter and exit the premises. Dealership Some people might feel that they must go to the dealership when keys go missing. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership, and could purchase the key from the manufacturer. This can take several days. A dealer can usually do the job quicker than a locksmith, and might even cost less. It is likely that the key fob will still need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by consulting your owner's guide. It involves opening and shutting doors, as well as switching off and on lights and other electronic devices. It could also involve pressing a combination of buttons which acts as a code. This can often be done by the drivers, however it's always better to let an expert manage it. The year, make and model of the car will affect the price, too. The cost of the service can be affected by the year, model and model of the vehicle. A dealer who sells specific model of car is more likely to be able to replace the keys for the 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 older brands that have been shut down or are old enough that they no longer make keys are listed. auto key replacement include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn, and Eagle. Typically, these types of keys require reprogramming, which can be more difficult and expensive than replacing the key itself. If you have a spare key it is usually best to have it cloned at an expert instead of obtaining an alternative from the dealer. You will not have to pay the more expensive rates for after-hours or weekend services. If you lose your keys, you can be assured that the cloned one will function.