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Car Keys Replacement Cost It wasn't long ago that losing keys to cars was not a big issue. You could take your spare to key cutters and purchase an additional one for $10 or less. Today, however the process can be more complicated and expensive. Learn about the different types and costs for keys for cars. Basic Key Fob A key fob is both a remote and key in one. It's a tiny plastic device that has one or more buttons that you press to unlock the doors and trunk, open the hatchback, open the windows and maybe even start the car. The key fob also comes with a built-in electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard system to control functions like the starter. A basic key fob is generally made of standard plastic and employs a lock-and key mechanism, such as the one you'd find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost between $50 and $100, but you'll pay more if you need to replace one that's been damaged or lost. You'll likely need to visit a dealer if the car is older than five years old. Many newer cars require special equipment to code and programme new keys. A locksmith or key shop can usually do this for less however. The cost of your fob could depend on the type of fob you have. Older cars use mechanical keys, whereas the most recent models typically have transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of key fobs can be equipped with a variety of functions. They can include keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically, or rolling codes that change frequently to stop thieves from intercepting the data on the key fob. Online key fobs may be less expensive than ones you can purchase from a dealer, but they may not work on your car. Some manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips that prevent their key fobs from working with third-party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in but there's a good possibility that it won't function. You can find information about programming your key fob by looking up the manufacturer's site or your owner's guide. It's worth trying to do this yourself before going to the dealership or paying an expert locksmith to do it. You can also look into your car's warranty and auto insurance policy to determine if they cover the cost of a brand new key fob. Transponder Key Most newer cars use keys that are known as a transponder key. They have embedded chips in the head that sends an electronic message to the vehicle when it is inserted in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and starting the engine. This key type is more secure than conventional flat metal keys because transponder chips prevent the car from starting if it does not receive a signal from the correct key. This technology was designed 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 that prevent them from starting when keys that are not transponder compatible are used. However, car thieves have also developed ways to gain access and steal cars that are equipped with transponder keys. A locksmith can usually help you replace the damaged or lost transponder key. They will require details about your car, such as the VIN number and model. Then, they'll cut a new one or program the existing one to your car's system. This process is a bit more expensive than having a car dealership cut and program a replacement key. Some auto stores, such as AutoZone and Walmart, are also capable of cutting and re-copying a transponder key, but they may not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. It is recommended to contact a reputable and experienced locksmith firm to be sure that a professional is capable of handling the job. It was relatively easy to make a duplicate key for a car and then wire a vehicle prior to the advent of this modern technology. This was a method used to steal cars, and it allowed criminals to drive away with stolen vehicles. The advent of transponder keys has greatly reduced the likelihood of this happening however, it's not completely eliminated. You can call an expert to handle this for you in the event that you require an extra transponder key or if you lost yours. The cost will be higher than a conventional key, but 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 people want convenience, safety, and security. These devices can open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, or even start the engine without an actual key. They can be tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. This means they're costly to replace, and you may require fob programming in order to pair your new one with your vehicle. The cost of cutting a basic fob for a key at a hardware store is about ten dollars. However, the newest smart keys can be expensive if you have to buy them and then program them. Based on your car's model and make you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 and $500 for a replacement fob and the cost of cutting it and programming it to your car. There are also car key replacement mobile advanced car key systems that let you use your smartphone as a key. You can lock or unlock your car by using an app on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, activate your parking break, and perform other tasks 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 concerned about your children leaving the car unsupervised. Some of these systems could be expensive, but they are more secure than a regular car key. They monitor your location to stop you from locking or starting the car if you are far away. They can also assist you to find your car in garages that have parking spaces and can even warn you when the doors are opened or closed. These systems can also be useful for businesses like property managers who oversee offices or vacation rentals. These systems permit them to control access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those who have permissions are allowed in and out. Dealership Some people believe they need to go to the dealer when their keys are missing. The dealer will ask for proof of ownership, and could order keys from the manufacturer. This could take a few days. A dealer can usually do the job more quickly than a locksmith and may even cost less. The key fob might require programming for your car. 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 may also require pressing a set of buttons that function as a code. This is often handled by the drivers, but it is always best to let a technician take care of it. The cost will also be affected by the year, make and type of vehicle. The cost of the service could also be affected by the year, model and model of the vehicle. A dealer that sells a specific model of car is more likely know how to replace the keys for that particular vehicle. Some of the larger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler, have many models and are familiar with the keys. Certain brands are more difficult to work with. This includes a few 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 some of the older companies that have stopped producing keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these keys require reprogramming, which can be more difficult and expensive than replacing the key itself. It is recommended that you have your spare key cloned by a specialist rather than purchasing another one from the dealer. You will not have to pay the higher rates for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys, you can be sure that the cloned key will work.