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Car Keys Replacement Cost A few years ago, losing your keys to your car wasn't an issue. You could bring your spare key to a key cutter and get an alternative that cost less than $10. Today, however the process can be more complicated and expensive. Learn about the different types and costs of keys for cars. Basic Key Fob A key fob can be described as a remote control and a key in one. It's tiny, plastic device with a button can be pushed to open doors, open the hatchback or trunk, lower windows and, possibly, even start the vehicle. The key fob also comes with an embedded electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard computer system to control 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 could cost anything from $50 to $100, but the real cost comes when you have to replace a damaged or lost one. If your car was made in the past five years, chances are that you'll need to visit the dealer for a replacement fob, since many modern cars require specialized equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith or key shop typically can perform this task for less, however. The type of fob you're using can affect the price. Older cars have mechanical key fobs while the latest models use transponder keys. Both types of keys are able to have a range of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle in a controlled manner to rolling codes that change regularly to deter thieves from intercepting and using your car's key fob data. Key fobs purchased online may be less expensive than ones you can buy at the dealer, but they may not be compatible with your car. Certain manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips that block their key fobs from interacting with third-party devices. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob if it's purchased, but it's highly unlikely that it will work. Go through your owner's manual or visit the manufacturer's website for information on programming your specific model's key fob. Try to do this yourself before hiring a locksmith or going to the dealer. You can also look into your car's warranty and auto insurance policy to determine whether they cover the cost of a new key fob. Transponder Key Most newer cars use keys of a different type, known as a transponder key. The keys contain embedded chips in the head which transmits an information to the vehicle once it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and starting the engine. This type of key is more secure than standard flat metal keys because transponder chips stop the car from starting if it does not receive an appropriate signal from the key. This technology was created to reduce car theft because it is virtually impossible to duplicate these keys without the proper equipment. In addition, many cars also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting when the key is not transponder-compatible. Car thieves have developed ways to steal cars equipped with transponder key systems. A locksmith can usually help you replace a lost or damaged transponder key. They'll require the information about your specific vehicle, such as the VIN number as well as the model and year. Then, they'll either cut a new key or program the current one to your car's security system. This is a more costly process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys. Some auto stores, such as AutoZone and Walmart can also be capable of cutting and copying a transponder key, but they may not be able to reprogram the chip inside the key. You should contact an experienced and reliable locksmith firm to ensure that a professional is capable of handling the job. Before the invention of technology like this it was fairly easy to make duplicate car keys and then hot wire a car. This technique was used to steal cars and it permitted criminals to steal stolen vehicles. The advent of transponder keys has greatly reduced the likelihood of this happening, but it is not completely eliminated. If you require a new transponder keys or you've lost yours, the best solution is to call a professional and have them make it for you. The cost will be more than a standard key, but it is a much safer and better way to ensure that your vehicle is not able to be started by anyone else. Keyless Entry System Car key fobs are becoming an everyday feature in cars, as more and people are seeking convenience, security, and security. These devices can open doors, trigger the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, and even start the engine without a physical key. But they can also endure quite a beating from being used in a variety of ways, and they're more likely to be lost or stolen than metal keys. automotive key replacement to replace keys, and you might need to program your new fob to pair it with your vehicle. A basic key fob will cost ten or so dollars to get cut at an hardware store, but the latest smart keys can be expensive if you're looking to purchase the keys and have them programmed. Based on your car's make and model, you can expect to pay between $200 to $500 to replace a fob plus the cost of having it cut and programmed to your car. Certain advanced car key systems let you use your smartphone as an actual key. You can lock or unlock your car by using an app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn on and off your lights, activate your parking break, and perform other things based on how close you are to your car. These are great for people who live in urban areas, or if you're a parent that's concerned about your children leaving the car without supervision. Certain of these systems can be expensive, but they're also more secure than a standard car key since they monitor your location and stop you from accidentally locking your car or turning off the engine in case you're not close enough. They also can help you locate your car inside garages that have parking spaces and even alert you when the doors are shut or opened. These systems are also beneficial for businesses like property managers who manage offices or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to monitor access rights of guests as well as cleaning staff and maintenance personnel, while ensuring that only those who have the appropriate permissions are allowed to get in and out of the space. Dealership Some people believe they need to go to the dealer when keys are missing. The dealer will ask for proof of ownership and request keys from the manufacturer. This could take a few days. A dealer is usually able to complete the job faster than a locksmith and might even charge 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 referring to your owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors and turning lights and other electronics on and off. It can even involve pressing a combination of buttons that acts like an electronic code. This can often be done by the drivers, but it is always best to let an expert manage it. The year, make and model of the car will impact the price as well. The cost of the service may also be affected by the year, model and model of the vehicle. A dealer who sells a particular brand of vehicle is more likely to know how to replace the keys for that particular vehicle. Some of the larger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a huge number of models, and are more familiar with the keys for the models they sell. Other brands are more 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. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. Typically, these kinds of keys have to be reprogrammed, which can be more difficult and more expensive than replacing the key itself. It is recommended to have your spare key cloned by a professional instead of getting a new one from a dealer. You will avoid paying higher rates for after-hours and weekend services. Then, if you do lose your keys you can rest easy knowing that the key cloned will work.