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Car Keys Replacement Cost It wasn't long ago that losing keys to cars was not a major issue. You could take your spare key to a key cutter for an alternative that cost less than $10. Nevertheless the process has gotten more complex and expensive. Learn about the various types and costs of car keys. Basic Key Fob Key fobs are an remote as well as a key in one. It's a small plastic device that houses one or more buttons that you press to unlock the doors and trunk, open the hatchback, open the windows, and perhaps start the car. additional resources has an embedded electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard system to manage functions like the starter. A basic key fob is typically made of standard plastic and employs a lock-and key mechanism, like the type you'd find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost between $50-$100, but you'll pay more if require a replacement for one that's damaged or lost. You'll likely have to visit the dealer if your car is newer than five years. A lot of newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. Locksmiths or key shops typically can do this for less however. The type of fob you're using can also impact the cost. Older cars have mechanical key fobs, while modern models have transponder keys. Both types of key fobs can be equipped with a variety of functions. They could include keyless entry which locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically or rolling codes that are updated regularly to prevent thieves from stealing the data on your key fob. Online key fobs may be cheaper than those you can buy at the dealer, but they may not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from working with third-party devices. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob when it's brought in, but it's very likely that it won't work. You can find out more about programming your key fob by searching the site of the manufacturer or in the owner's guide. It's a good idea to try this yourself prior to going to the dealer or hiring an expert locksmith. You can also check your car's warranty and auto insurance policy to determine whether they will cover the cost of a new key fob. Transponder Key Transponder keys are utilized in the majority of modern cars. They have a chip embedded in the head of the key that sends a signal to the vehicle when it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and start the engine. This key type is more secure than conventional flat metal keys because a transponder chip prevents the car from starting if it fails to receive the right signal from the key. This technology was created to reduce car theft as it is virtually impossible to duplicate these kinds of keys without the right equipment. Many vehicles are also equipped with immobilizers which prevent the vehicle from starting if they are used with keys that do not have a transponder. Car thieves have devised methods to steal vehicles with transponder key systems. A locksmith is usually able to help you replace the damaged or lost transponder key. They'll require the details of your particular vehicle, including the VIN number, model and year. Then, they'll either cut a new key or program the current one to your car's system. This process is a bit more expensive than simply having a car dealership cut and program a replacement key. Some stores for automotive, such as AutoZone and Walmart are also capable of cutting and copying a transponder key, but they might not be able to reprogram the chip inside the key. If you want to be sure that a professional is able to complete the task, you should call a reputable and experienced locksmith service. It was fairly easy to create a duplicate key for a car, and then hot-wire a car prior to the advent of this new technology. This technique was used to steal cars, and it allowed criminals to drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced the risk of this crime, but they haven't completely eliminated it completely. If you require a new transponder key or you have lost yours, the best choice is to contact an expert and let them do it for you. The cost will be more than a conventional key, however it's a safer and better way to ensure that your vehicle can't be started by anyone else. Keyless Entry System Car key fobs are now a standard feature in vehicles, as more and people are seeking convenience, safety and security. These little transmitters can unlock doors, set off the alarm for panic and open the trunk and even start your car without having the physical key in your hand. They can also take a lot of abuse from being tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen than the metal keys. They're also expensive to replace, and you might need fob programming to pair your new key with your vehicle. A standard key fob can cost about ten dollars to get cut at a hardware store, but the latest smart keys aren't cheap when you want to purchase them and then have them programmed. It is possible to spend between $200 and $500 on a replacement key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed to fit in your car. Certain advanced car key systems let you use your smartphone as an actual key. By using the app on your phone, you can remote lock or unlock your car and you can also switch your lights on and off, activate your parking brake, and perform other things depending on your proximity to the car. These are perfect for those who reside in urban areas, or if you have children and worry about children leaving the car unattended. Certain of these systems may be costly, but they are more secure than a standard car key. They track your location to prevent you from locking or opening the car when you are far from. They can also assist you to locate your car in parking garages, and some can warn you if the doors are opened or closed. These systems are also useful for businesses like property managers who oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems can allow them to monitor access rights for guests cleaners, guests, and maintenance workers, while ensuring that only those who have the appropriate permissions are allowed to get in and out of the space. Dealership Some people may feel that they need to visit a dealership if their keys are lost. They'll have to show proof of ownership, and sometimes the key has to be purchased from the manufacturer, which could take a few days. However, a dealer can typically complete the task for you faster than locksmiths, and they may have cheaper prices, as well. It is likely that the key fob will require programming to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership, or by consulting the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, as well as switching off or on lights and other electronic devices. It could also involve pressing a series of buttons which acts as the code. It is usually done by the driver, but it is better to have a technician handle it. The year, make and model of the vehicle 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 specific model of car is more likely to know how to replace keys for that vehicle. Some of the bigger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a huge number of models, and are more familiar with the keys for those models. Some brands are harder to work with. Some of the more established brands that have shut down or that are old enough that they no longer produce keys are included. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. The keys are typically modified. This can be more expensive and complicated than replacing the key. If you have a spare key it is best to have it cloned at a specialist rather than getting an alternative from the dealer. That way you can avoid having to pay the higher after-hours or weekend rates. If you lose your keys, you can be assured that the duplicate will work.