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Car Keys Replacement Cost Not long ago, misplacing your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could take your spare key to a key cutter and get a new one that cost $10 or less. However the process has become more complex and expensive. Find out about the various kinds and costs of car keys. Basic Key Fob Key fobs are a remote control and a key in one. It's a small plastic device that contains one or more buttons that you push to unlock the doors, open the trunk or hatchback, open the windows, and possibly start the car. Read the Full Article has an electronic chip built in that communicates with the car's onboard systems to regulate functions like the starter. A basic key fob is usually constructed of plastic that uses a regular lock-and-key mechanism, like the kind you might find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob costs between $50 to $100, however you'll pay more if need to replace one that's been damaged or lost. You'll likely need to visit the dealer if your vehicle is more than five years old. Most newer vehicles require special equipment to code and programme new keys. A locksmith or key shop is usually capable of doing this for less. The type of fob you're using can affect the price. Older vehicles use mechanical keys, whereas the latest models usually have transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of keys come with a variety of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the car instantly to changing codes on a regular basis to prevent thieves from taking and using your car's key fob data. It's possible to purchase an aftermarket key fob for less than what you'd pay at the dealer however they might not work with your car. Some manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips in their key fobs that block them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob when it's brought in, but it's highly unlikely that it will function. Check your owner's manual or go to the manufacturer's site for information about programming your particular model's key fob. It's worth trying this yourself before heading to the dealership or paying an expert locksmith to do it. You can also check your vehicle's warranty, roadside assistance and auto-insurance coverage to see if these will cover the cost of a replacement fob for your key. Transponder Key Transponder keys are used in the majority of modern cars. These keys have an embedded chip in the head that transmits a message to the vehicle after it is inserted in the ignition cylinder. The signal is used to unlock the car and begin the engine. This type of key is more secure than traditional flat metal keys because transponder chips prevent the car from starting if it does not receive the right signal from the key. This technology was created to prevent theft of cars since it is nearly impossible to duplicate these kinds of keys without the appropriate equipment. Additionally, many vehicles also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting if the key is not transponder-compatible. Car thieves have devised ways to steal cars equipped with transponder key systems. A locksmith is usually able to help you replace the damaged or lost transponder key. They will require details about your car including the VIN number and model. They'll either program the key you have to the car's computer system or cut an entirely new one. This process is a bit more expensive than simply getting a car dealership to cut and program a new key. Some stores for automotive, such as AutoZone and Walmart can also be capable of cutting and re-copying the transponder key, however they might not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. If you want to ensure that a professional will be able to handle the job, contact an experienced and trusted locksmith service. It was fairly easy to create duplicate keys for a car, and then hot-wire a car prior to the advent of this new technology. This method of stealing cars was very common and allowed criminals to get into and drive off with stolen vehicles. The advent of transponder keys has drastically reduced this crime, but it is not completely eliminated. If you require a new transponder key, or have lost yours, the best choice is to call a professional and have them create it for you. It's more expensive than a standard key but it's a safer and more reliable option to ensure that anyone else is unable to start your car. Keyless Entry System Car key fobs are now a standard feature of vehicles, as more and people are seeking convenience, security and security. These devices can open doors, trigger the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, or even start the engine without having the physical key. They can be thrown around and are more likely to be lost or stolen. It's expensive to replace keys, and you might have to program your new fob to pair it with your vehicle. A basic key fob costs around ten dollars to get cut at the hardware store, however the latest smart keys aren't cheap when you need to buy them and then have them programmed. You should expect to pay between $200 and $500 for the replacement key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed for your car. Some advanced car key systems let you use your phone as an actual key. With the application on your smartphone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car, and you can turn your lights on and off, activate your parking brake, and do other things depending on your proximity to the car. This is ideal for people who reside in urban areas or have children and are worried about children leaving the car unattended. Some of these systems could be expensive, but are more secure than a standard car key. They monitor your location to stop you from locking or opening the car when you are far from. Certain systems can help you locate your vehicle in a garage, while others can alert you if you shut or open the doors. These kinds of systems could also be useful for companies, such as property managers who oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems can allow them to monitor access rights of guests, cleaning staff, and maintenance staff, as well as ensuring that only those with the appropriate permissions are allowed to get in and out of the space. Dealership Some people may think that they need to visit a dealership if their keys disappear. The dealer will request proof of ownership and may request the key from the manufacturer. This could take several days. A dealer will usually complete the job quicker than a locksmith, and may even charge less. The key fob could require programming for your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership, or by consulting the owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors, and turning off the lights and other electronic devices on and off. It can even require pressing a set of buttons that functions as the code. Most of the time, this is performed by the driver, but it is better to have a technician perform it. The cost will also be affected by the year, make and type of vehicle. Modern cars come with sophisticated transponder chips which will need to be paired with the vehicle by a locksmith or a dealer, and the process can be more expensive. A dealer who sells a particular model of car is more likely to know how to change keys for the model. Some of the bigger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan, have a large number of models, and are more acquainted with the keys that are used for the specific models. 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 being produced. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn, and Eagle. The keys are typically reprogrammed. This is more expensive and time-consuming than replacing the key. It is recommended that you get your spare key copied by a professional instead of buying a new one from the dealer. You can avoid paying the higher prices for after-hours and weekend services. If you do lose your keys you can rest easy knowing that the key cloned will work.