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Car Keys Replacement Cost It wasn't that long ago that losing keys to cars was not a problem. You could take your spare key to a key cutter and get a new one that cost less than $10. Nevertheless the process has become more complicated and costly. Read on to learn about the different types of car keys and how they will cost you to replace. Basic Key Fob A key fob can be described as a remote control and key in one. It's a small plastic device that contains a button or buttons that you press 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 the car's onboard systems to control functions like the starter. A basic key fob is typically made of plastic and employs a lock-and key mechanism, like the type you'd find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob will cost between $50 and $100, but you'll be charged more if you need to replace one that's lost or damaged. If your car was manufactured in the last five years, chances are that you'll need to visit the dealership for a replacement fob as many newer cars require special equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith or key shop will usually be able to do this for less, however. The cost of your fob can also depend on the type you have. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, while modern models have transponder keys. Key fobs of both types can be equipped with a range 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 your key fob. Key fobs purchased online may be less expensive than ones you can buy at the dealer, but they might not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips inside their key fobs that block them from working with third-party devices. Some dealerships will program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in but there's a good possibility that it won't work. Check your owner's manual or visit the manufacturer's website for more information on programming your specific model's key fob. You should try to do this yourself prior to paying a locksmith or going to the dealer. You may also want to check your car's warranty and auto insurance policy to determine whether they will cover the cost of replacing a key fob. Transponder Key Most modern cars utilize a type of key called a transponder key. They have embedded chips in the head that sends an electronic message to the vehicle after it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking 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 fails to receive the right signal from the key. This technology was designed to stop car theft since it is nearly impossible to duplicate these kinds of keys without the appropriate equipment. Many cars are also equipped with immobilizers which prevent the vehicle from starting when they are operated with keys that do not have a transponder. Car thieves have devised methods to steal vehicles with transponder key systems. A locksmith can assist you to replace your transponder keys if it is damaged or lost. car key replacements will need the details of your vehicle, such as the VIN number and model. They will then cut a new key or program the current one to your car's system. This is a little more expensive than simply getting a car dealership to cut and program a replacement key. Some automotive stores like AutoZone or Walmart can cut and duplicate transponder keys but they aren't capable of reprogramming chips in the key. You should contact an experienced and reliable locksmith company if you want to be sure that a professional is capable of handling the job. Before the advent of this technology it was fairly easy for someone to make duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a vehicle. This method of stealing cars was very common and allowed criminals to enter and drive away with stolen vehicles. The advent of the transponder key has greatly reduced this activity however, it's not completely eliminated. If you need a replacement transponder key or you have lost yours, the best choice is to contact an expert and let them make it for you. The cost will be higher than a traditional key however it's a safer and better method to ensure that your vehicle can't be started by anyone else. Keyless Entry System Car key fobs are becoming a standard feature of vehicles, as more and people are seeking convenience, security, and security. They are able to open doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, and even start the engine without the physical key. They are easily tossed around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. This means they're costly to replace, and you could require fob programming to connect your new one with your vehicle. A basic key fob will cost around ten dollars to cut at the hardware store, however the latest smart keys aren't cheap when you need to buy them and have them programmed. Depending on your vehicle make and model, you can expect to pay anywhere from $200-$500 for a replacement fob plus the cost of having it cut and programmed to your car. Some sophisticated car key systems let you use your phone as a key. You can lock or unlock your car via the app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, turn on your parking break, as well as perform other tasks based on how close you are to your car. This is ideal for people who reside in urban areas or if you have children and are worried about your children being in the car without supervision. Some of these systems are expensive however, they're more secure than a regular car key because they can track your location and prevent you from locking the car or turning off the engine when you're far away. Some of these systems can assist you in finding your vehicle in a garage, while others can notify you when you shut or open the doors. These systems are also useful for businesses such as property managers who oversee offices or vacation rentals. These systems let them check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those who have permissions are permitted to enter and exit. Dealership Some people believe that they should visit a dealer when their keys are missing. They'll have to show proof of ownership, and sometimes the key must be ordered from the manufacturer which could take several days. But a dealer will usually get the job done for you faster than a locksmith, and they may offer lower prices too. It is likely that the key fob will still require programming to your vehicle. This can be done either at the dealership or by reading the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, as well as turning on and off lights and other electronic devices. It may even require pressing a number of buttons that function as a code. Often, this can be done by the driver, however, it is best to have a technician do it. The year the model, make and year of the vehicle will have an impact on the cost as well. The cost of the service can be affected by the year, model and model of the vehicle. A dealer that sells a certain model will be more likely to be able to replace keys for that model. 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 those models. Other brands are more difficult to work with. This includes a few of the older companies that have closed, or are old enough to have keys that are no longer being produced. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are among the more established companies that have stopped producing keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these kinds of keys require reprogramming and can be more complicated and costly than replacing the key itself. It is recommended to get your spare key copied by a professional instead of getting an entirely new one from the dealer. That way you can avoid paying the more expensive after-hours or weekend rates. If you do lose your keys, you can rest easy knowing that the copied key will work.