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Car Keys Replacement Cost Not long ago, misplacing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could take your spare key to a key cutter and get the replacement key for less than $10. However the process has gotten more complicated and costly. Find out about the various kinds and costs of car keys. Basic Key Fob A key fob can be described as an remote control as well as an actual key in one. It's a small plastic device that contains buttons or buttons that you can push to unlock the doors, open the trunk or hatchback, open the windows and maybe even start the car. The key fob also has an electronic chip inside that communicates with the car's onboard system to control functions such as the starter. Basic key fobs are usually made of standard plastic and use a regular lock and key mechanism. These are identical to those that were used on the old Pontiacs and Saturns. A basic key fob may cost anything from $50 to $100, but the true cost is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one. If your car was built within the last five years, the chances are you'll need to visit the dealer for a replacement fob as many newer cars require special equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith shop or key shop will typically be able to do this at a lower cost. The cost of your fob could depend on the type of fob you own. Older cars have mechanical keys, whereas the latest models usually have transponder keys or smart keys. Both of these types come with a variety of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the vehicle instantly to changing codes on a regular basis to prevent thieves from taking and stealing your car's key fob data. Online key fobs may be cheaper than those you can buy at the dealer, but they may not work on your car. Some manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips that block their key fobs from interfacing with third party devices. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob if it's purchased, but it's likely that it won't work. Check your owner's manual or visit the manufacturer's website for information on programming your specific model's key fob. You should try to do this yourself prior to paying an expert locksmith or visiting the dealer. You can also look into your vehicle's warranty and auto-insurance policy to determine whether they will cover the cost of a brand new key fob. Transponder Key The majority of newer cars have keys that are known as transponder keys. They have an embedded chip inside the head of the key which transmits a signal the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and begin the engine. This key is more secure than the traditional flat metal key because the transponder chip prevents cars from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was created to stop car theft since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these keys without the right equipment. Many cars are also equipped with immobilizers that prevent them from starting when they are operated by keys that do not have a transponder. However, thieves have also devised ways to gain access and steal vehicles that have transponder keys. A locksmith will usually be able to assist you in replacing the damaged or lost transponder key. They'll need the information about your specific vehicle, such as the VIN number along with the year, model and year. They'll either program the key you have to the car's computer system or cut a new one. This is a little more expensive than simply getting a car dealership to cut and program a new key. automotive key replacement for automotive like AutoZone or Walmart can cut and duplicate transponder keys however, they may not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. If you want to be sure that a professional can handle the task, you should call a reputable and experienced locksmith company. It was fairly easy to make a duplicate key for a car, and then hot-wire a vehicle before the advent of this new technology. This technique was used to steal cars and it permitted criminals to steal stolen vehicles. The introduction of transponder keys has drastically reduced this crime, but it is not completely eliminated. If you need a new transponder key, or have lost yours, the best option is to call an expert and have them create it for you. The cost will be more than a conventional key, but it's a safer and more secure method to ensure that your vehicle is not able to be started by anyone else. Keyless Entry System As increasing numbers of people seek security, convenience, and safety keys for their cars are now a standard feature. These tiny devices can unlock doors, activate the alarm for panic or open the trunk and even start your car without having to have a physical key in your hands. They can be thrown around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. That means they're expensive to replace, and you may require fob programming to connect your new key with your vehicle. The cost of cutting a standard key fob in an hardware store is around ten dollars. However, the newest smart keys can be expensive if you have to buy them and then program them. Depending on your vehicle model and make you can expect to pay anywhere from $200-$500 for a replacement fob in addition to the cost of having it cut and programmed to your vehicle. Some sophisticated car key systems let you use your smartphone as a key. By using the app on your phone, you can remote lock or unlock your car and you can also turn your lights on and off, turn off your parking brake, and do other things depending on the proximity of your car. These apps are ideal for those who live in urban areas or 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 regular car key. They keep track of your location to prevent you from locking or opening the car if you are far from. Some of these systems can assist you in finding your car in a garage and others can notify you when you close or open the doors. These types of systems can also be useful for businesses, like property managers who manage office space or vacation rentals. These systems let them monitor access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those who have permissions are allowed to enter and exit the premises. Dealership Some people may feel that they must go to the dealer if their keys disappear. They'll have to show proof of ownership, and sometimes keys must be purchased from the manufacturer, which can take a few days. A dealer is usually able to complete the job more quickly than a locksmith, and might even charge less. The key fob could require to be programmed for your car. This can be done either at the dealer or by looking up the owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors, as well as turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off. It may also require pressing a number of buttons that act as codes. This is often handled by the driver, but it's always better to let an expert manage it. The year the model, make and year of the car will impact the price, too. The cost of the service can be affected by the year, model and model of the vehicle. A dealer who sells a particular model will be more likely to be able to replace keys for the model. Some of the biggest manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have a variety of models and are familiar with the keys. Other brands are more difficult to work with. This includes some of the older firms that have been shut down or are old enough to have keys that are no longer in production. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are a few of the companies that are older and no longer produce keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these kinds of keys have to be reprogrammed and can be more complicated and costly than replacing the key itself. In general, if you have a spare key it is best to have it cloned at a specialist rather than getting an exchange from the dealer. You will avoid paying higher prices for after-hours and weekend services. Then, if you do lose your keys, you can rest easy knowing that the cloned key will function.