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Car Keys Replacement Cost A few years ago, losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could bring your spare to a key cutter and get a new one for just $10 or less. However the process has become more complex and expensive. Learn about the different types and costs of car keys. Basic Key Fob A key fob can be described as an remote as well as a key in one. It's a tiny plastic device that has 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 has an embedded electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard system to manage functions such as the starter. A basic key fob is usually constructed of plastic that employs a lock-and key mechanism, like the type you'd find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob may cost anywhere from $50 to $100, but the true price is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one. You'll likely need to visit the dealer if your car is newer than five years. A lot of newer vehicles require special equipment to code and programme new keys. A locksmith or a key shop is usually able to do this at a lower cost. The kind of fob you own will also affect the price. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, while the most recent models typically have transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of key fobs can be equipped with a range of features. They may include keyless entry that locks and unlocks your car automatically or rolling codes that are changed frequently to stop thieves from stealing the data on your key fob. Key fobs that are available online could be less expensive than ones you can purchase from a dealer, but they may not work on your car. Certain manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from interfacing 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 work. You can get information on programming your key fob by looking up the site of the manufacturer or in the owner's guide. It's worth trying to do this yourself before going to the dealership or paying an expert locksmith. You can also check your vehicle's warranty, roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance policy to see if they cover the costs of a replacement fob for your key. Transponder Key Transponder keys are found in the majority of modern cars. These keys contain a chip embedded in the head of the key that transmits a signal to the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. The signal is used to unlock the car and start the engine. This type of key is more secure than traditional flat metal keys due to transponder chips prevent the car from starting if it doesn't receive a signal from the correct key. This technology was designed to prevent theft of cars because it is virtually impossible to duplicate these keys without the proper equipment. Additionally, many vehicles also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting if keys that are not transponder compatible are used. Car thieves have come up with methods to steal vehicles with transponder key systems. A locksmith can help you replace your transponder key if it is damaged or lost. They'll need the information about your specific vehicle, including the VIN number along with the year, model and year. Then, they'll either cut a new key or program the current one to your car's security system. This procedure is more expensive than simply getting a car dealership to cut and program a replacement key. Some stores for automotive like AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and copy transponder keys, however, they may not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. It is recommended to contact an experienced and reliable locksmith company if you want to ensure that a professional is able to handle the task. Before the advent of this technology it was fairly easy for someone to make a duplicate car key and then hot wire a car. This method of stealing cars was very widespread and allowed criminals to get into and drive off with stolen vehicles. The advent of transponder keys has drastically reduced this crime however, it's not completely eliminated. If you need a replacement transponder key or you have lost yours, the best solution is to call a professional and have them create it for you. It will cost more than a standard key, but it's a much safer and more secure alternative to ensure that someone else cannot start your car. Keyless Entry System Car key fobs are now a standard feature of vehicles, as more and more people seek convenience, safety, and security. These transmitters can open doors, trigger the panic alarm, open the trunk, or even start the engine without the physical key. They can be tossed 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 the new key with your vehicle. The cost of cutting a basic key fob at an hardware store is around 10 dollars. However, the latest smart keys can be costly if you must purchase them, as well as program them. Based on the make and model, 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 car. Some sophisticated car key systems allow you to use your smartphone as an actual key. You can lock or unlock your car by using an app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, activate your parking break, and perform other things based on how close you are to the car. These are perfect for those who live in urban areas or if you have children and worry about them leaving the car unattended. Some of these systems are expensive, but they're also more secure than a regular car key since they locate you and prevent you from accidentally locking the car or turning on the engine in case you're not close enough. They also can help you locate your car inside garages that have parking spaces, and some can warn you if the doors have been open or closed. These kinds of systems can also be useful for businesses, like property managers who manage vacation rentals or office spaces. These systems allow them to check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. They can also make sure that only those with permissions are allowed to enter and exit the premises. Dealership Some people believe they need to go to the dealer if keys are missing. They'll need to provide proof of ownership, and sometimes the key has to be purchased from the manufacturer, which can take a few days. But a dealer can also typically complete the task for you much faster than a locksmith, and they may offer lower prices too. It is likely that the key fob will require programming to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by referring to the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors, as well as turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off. It can even require pressing a set of buttons that functions as the code. This is usually handled by the drivers, but it's always better to let a technician handle it. The cost is also dependent on the year, make and type of vehicle. The cost of the service could also be affected by the year, make and model of the vehicle. A dealer who 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, Chrysler and Nissan have a wide number of models and are more familiar with the keys that are used for the models they sell. Other brands are more difficult to work with. This includes some of the more established companies that have 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. G28 Car Keys are typically reprogrammed. This can be more expensive and difficult than replacing the key. If you have a spare key, it is usually best to get it copied by a specialist rather than getting an exchange from the dealer. So, you don't have to worry about having to pay the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. Then, if you do lose your keys, you can rest easy knowing that the copied key will work.