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Car Keys Replacement Cost It wasn't too long ago that losing keys to cars was not a big issue. You could take your spare to a key cutter and get a new one for $10 or less. Nevertheless the process has become more complex and expensive. Find out about the various kinds and costs for car keys. Basic Key Fob Key fobs are an remote control as well as an actual key in one. It's a small, plastic device that has buttons or buttons that you push to unlock the doors, open the trunk or hatchback, lower the windows, and perhaps start the car. The key fob comes with an electronic chip embedded that communicates with your car's onboard systems to control functions such as the starter. A basic key fob is usually constructed of plastic that employs a lock-and key mechanism, like the one you'd find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob costs between $50-$100, but you'll pay more if need to replace one that's damaged or lost. If your car was made within the last five years, chances are that you'll need to go to the dealership for a replacement fob, as many newer vehicles require special equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith or key shop will usually be capable of doing this for less. The cost of the fob you purchase can depend on the type of fob you own. Older cars have mechanical key fobs, while latest models use transponder keys. Both types of key fobs can be equipped with a range of features. They could include keyless entry which locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically or rolling codes that are changed regularly to prevent thieves from intercepting the data on the key fob. You may be able to buy an aftermarket key fob online for less than what you'd pay at a dealership, but these may not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that prevent their key fobs from interacting with third party devices. Some dealerships will program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in, but there's a good chance that it won't function. Go through your owner's manual or go to the manufacturer's site for more information about programming your particular model's key fob. It's a good idea to try this yourself prior to going to the dealership or hiring a locksmith to do it. You can also look at your car's warranty, roadside assistance and auto-insurance coverage to determine if they will cover the cost of a replacement fob for your key. Transponder Key Transponder keys are utilized in the majority of newer automobiles. They have a chip embedded into the head which transmits an electronic message to the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This 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 doesn't receive a signal from the correct key. This technology was designed to stop car theft since it is virtually impossible to duplicate keys without the appropriate equipment. Many cars are also equipped with immobilizers that prevent them from starting if they are used with keys that are not transponder. However, thieves have also developed methods to steal and break into vehicles that have transponder keys. A locksmith can help you replace your transponder key if it's damaged or lost. They'll need details of your vehicle including the VIN number and model. They will then cut a new key or program the existing one to the car's system. This is a more expensive process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys. Some auto stores such as AutoZone or Walmart can cut and copy transponder keys however, they may not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. If you want to be sure that a professional will be able to handle the job, contact an experienced and trusted locksmith business. Before the invention of this technology, it was relatively easy for someone to make duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a car. This method was used to steal cars, and it allowed criminals to drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced this crime, but it isn't entirely eliminated it. If you need a replacement transponder key, or have lost yours, the best choice is to contact an expert and have them create it for you. It will cost more than a standard one, however it's a safer and more secure alternative to ensure that someone else cannot start your car. Keyless Entry System Car key fobs are becoming a standard feature of vehicles, as more and more people want convenience, security, and security. They are able to open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, or even start the engine without an actual key. They can be thrown around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. It's expensive to replace keys, and you might need to program your new fob to connect it with your vehicle. The cost of cutting a standard key fob in a hardware store is about ten dollars. However, the newest smart keys can be costly if you have to buy them, as well as program them. Based on the make and model, you can expect to shell out between $200 to $500 for a replacement fob, in addition to the cost of having it cut and programmed to your vehicle. There are other more advanced car keys systems that let you make use of your smartphone as an actual key. Using the app on your smartphone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car, and you can switch on and off, as well as activate your parking brake, and do other things depending on the proximity of your car. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas, or if you have kids and worry about children leaving the car unattended. Some of these systems can be expensive, but they are more secure than a standard car key. They track your location to prevent you from accidentally locking or starting the car if you're too far away. Some of these systems can assist you in finding your car in a garage and others will notify you when you shut or open the doors. These types of systems can also be beneficial to companies, such as property managers who manage office space or vacation rentals. These systems can allow them to monitor access rights for guests, cleaning staff, and maintenance workers, while ensuring that only those who have the right permissions can get in and out of the space. Dealership Some people believe they need to go to the dealer when their keys are missing. They'll have to show proof of ownership, and occasionally keys must be ordered from the manufacturer, which can take a few days. But a dealer will usually get the job done for you quicker than locksmiths, and they may offer lower prices too. The key fob may still need to be programmed for your vehicle. This can be done at the dealer or by looking up the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, and turning off the lights and other electronic devices on and off. It can even require pressing a set of buttons which acts as the code. This is often handled by the drivers, however it's best to let an expert manage it. The year the model, make and year of the vehicle will have an impact on the price as well. The cost of the service may be affected by the year, make and model of the vehicle. A dealer who sells specific model of car is more likely know how to replace the keys for the vehicle. Some of the biggest manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler, have many models and are familiar with the keys. Certain brands are 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 in production. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. Typically, replacement auto key fob of keys need to be reprogrammed which is more difficult and more expensive than replacing the key itself. If you have a spare key, it is best to duplicate it at a specialist rather than getting an exchange from the dealer. That way you can avoid having to pay for the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. If you lose your keys you can be assured that the duplicate will function.