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Car Keys Replacement Cost It wasn't long ago that losing keys to cars was not a problem. You could take your spare to key cutters and purchase a new one for $10 or less. Nevertheless the process has gotten more complicated and costly. Learn about the various types and costs of keys for cars. Basic Key Fob A key fob is an remote control as well as key in one. It's tiny, plastic device equipped with a button which can be pushed to open doors and hatchbacks, open the trunk, lower windows, and possibly even start the car. The key fob is equipped with an electronic chip embedded that communicates with the car's onboard systems for controlling functions like the starter. Basic key fobs are constructed from plastic that is standard, and are fitted with a standard lock and key mechanism. These are the same as those found on old Pontiacs or Saturns. A basic key fob will cost between $50-$100, but you'll pay more if require a replacement for one that's damaged or lost. If your car was manufactured within the past five years, chances are you'll need to visit the dealership to get a replacement fob since many modern cars require special equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith or key shop will typically be in a position to provide this service at a lower cost. The kind of fob you own can also impact the cost. Older vehicles use mechanical key fobs, whereas the latest models usually have transponder keys or smart keys. Key fobs of both kinds 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 changed frequently to keep thieves from stealing the information on the key fob. Key fobs that are available online could be less expensive than the ones you can get from the dealer, but they might not work with your vehicle. Some manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from interacting with third-party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket key fob if it's brought in, however it's likely that it won't function. Read the owner's manual for your model or visit the manufacturer's website for information on programming your specific model's key fob. Try to do this yourself prior to paying a locksmith or going to the dealer. You could also check your vehicle's warranty, roadside assistance and auto-insurance coverage to determine if they cover the costs of a replacement key fob. Transponder Key Transponder keys are utilized in the majority of newer automobiles. The keys contain an embedded chip in the head that sends a message to the vehicle after it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and start the engine. This key is more secure than the traditional flat metal keys because the transponder chip prevents a car from starting without the proper signal. This technology was designed to prevent theft of cars since it is nearly impossible to duplicate these kinds of keys without the right equipment. In addition, many cars also have immobilizer systems that prevent them from starting when a non-transponder key is used. However, car thieves have also devised ways to break into and steal cars with transponder keys. A locksmith can help replace your transponder key if it is damaged or lost. They will require information about your vehicle, such as the VIN number and model. Then, they'll cut a new key or program the current one to the car's system. This is a costlier process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys. Some stores for automotive like AutoZone or Walmart can cut and copy transponder keys, but may not be capable of reprogramming chips in the key. It is recommended to contact an experienced and reliable locksmith company if you want to ensure that a professional is able to handle the task. It was quite simple to create a duplicate key for a car and wire a vehicle prior to the advent of this latest technology. This technique was used to steal cars and it allowed criminals drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have greatly reduced the risk of this crime, but not entirely eliminated it completely. You can contact an expert to do this for you if you require an alternative transponder key or if you lost yours. It will cost more than a standard key but it's a much safer and better alternative to ensure that someone else is unable to start your car. Keyless Entry System As more and more people demand convenience, security and safety, car key fobs have become a common feature. These tiny transmitters can open doors, set off the panic alarm or open the trunk and even start your car without having the physical key in your hand. They can be thrown around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. That means they're expensive to replace, and you could need fob programming to pair the new key with your vehicle. The cost of cutting a basic key fob in a hardware shop is around ten dollars. However, the newest smart keys can be expensive if you have to buy them as well as programme them. Depending on your vehicle model and make you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 and $500 for a replacement fob, plus the cost of having it cut and programmed to your vehicle. There are other more advanced car keys systems that let you use your smartphone as an actual key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle 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 perform other things based on how close you are to your car. They are perfect for people who reside in urban areas, or even if you're a parent that's worried about your kids leaving the car unsupervised. Some of these systems can 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 if you are too far from. Certain of these systems can help you locate your vehicle in a garage, while others will notify you when you close or open the doors. These kinds of systems can also be useful for companies, such as property managers who oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems are able to monitor the access rights for guests, cleaning staff, and maintenance staff, as well as ensuring that only those who have the right permissions can get in and out of the space. replacement car key fobs may feel that they must go to the dealer if keys go missing. They'll have to show proof of ownership, and sometimes the key has to be purchased from the manufacturer, which could take several days. However, a dealer can typically complete the task for you quicker than a locksmith, and they might have lower prices, too. It is likely that the key fob will still require programming to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by reading your owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, as well as switching off or on lights and other electronic devices. It could also involve pressing a combination of buttons that functions as the code. Often, this can be performed by the driver, however, it is best to have a technician handle it. The year, make and model of the car will have an impact on the price, too. Modern cars feature advanced transponder chips that need to be paired with the vehicle by a locksmith or dealer and the process may be more costly. A dealer who sells a specific model of car is more likely to know how to replace the keys for that particular vehicle. Some of the larger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan, have a large number of models and are more familiar with the keys for the specific models. Other brands are more difficult to work with. This includes some of the older companies that have closed, or are old enough to have keys that are no longer in production. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are among the older companies that no longer produce keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these types of keys have to be reprogrammed and can be more difficult and more expensive than replacing the key itself. In general, if you have a spare key it is best to get it copied by an expert instead of obtaining a replacement from the dealer. You will not have to pay the higher prices for after-hours and weekend services. Then, if you do lose your keys, you can rest easy knowing that the key cloned will work.