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Car Keys Replacement Cost It wasn't long ago that misplacing keys to your car was not a major issue. You could take your spare keys to an a key cutter and buy an additional one for $10 or less. Nowadays, however, the process can be more complicated and expensive. Learn about the different types and costs for keys for cars. Basic Key Fob Key fobs are a remote and key in one. It's a tiny plastic device that contains one or more buttons that you press to unlock the doors and trunk, open the hatchback, roll down the windows and maybe even start the car. The key fob is equipped with an electronic chip embedded that communicates with your car's onboard systems to regulate functions such as the starter. A basic key fob is typically constructed of plastic that uses a regular lock-and-key mechanism, such as the kind you might find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost between $50 to $100, however you'll pay more if you need to replace one that has been lost or damaged. If your car was made in the last five years, chances are that you'll need to visit the dealership to get a replacement fob as many newer cars require special equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith or key shop is usually able to do this for less. The type of fob you have can also impact the cost. Older vehicles have mechanical key fobs, while modern models have transponder keys. Both of these types can have a wide range of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle in a controlled manner to rolling codes that are updated regularly to deter thieves from intercepting and stealing the data from your key fob. Key fobs that are available online could be less expensive than the ones you can buy at the dealer, but they may not work with your vehicle. key replacement car , like Audi and Subaru have security chips that prevent their key fobs from working with third-party devices. Some dealerships will program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in but there's a good chance that it won't function. You can find information about programming your key fob by visiting the website of the manufacturer or the owner's guide. It's worth trying to do this yourself prior to going to the dealership or hiring a locksmith to do it. You can also check your car's warranty, roadside assistance and auto-insurance policy to see if they cover the costs of a replacement fob for your key. Transponder Key The majority of newer cars have a type of key called a transponder key. These keys contain an embedded chip inside the key's head that transmits a signal to the vehicle when it is inserted into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and launching the engine. This key type is more secure than traditional flat metal keys since transponder chips prevent the car from starting if it doesn't receive an appropriate signal from the key. This technology was created to stop car theft since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these kinds of keys without the appropriate equipment. Many cars are also fitted with immobilizers that prevent them from starting if they are used with keys that do not have a transponder. Car thieves have come up with methods to steal vehicles with transponder key systems. A locksmith is usually able to assist you in replacing a lost or damaged transponder key. They'll need details of your vehicle, such as the VIN number and model. They will then either program your existing key to the car's system, or cut a new one. This process is a bit more expensive than cutting a key from a dealership and program a new key. Some automotive stores like AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and copy transponder keys but may not be capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. You should contact an experienced and reliable locksmith service to be sure that a professional is capable of handling the job. It was quite simple to make duplicate keys for a car and wire a vehicle prior to the advent of this new technology. This method of stealing vehicles was widespread and allowed criminals to get into and drive away with stolen vehicles. The advent of transponder keys has greatly reduced this activity however, it's not completely eliminated. If you require a new transponder keys or you've lost yours, the best option is to call an expert and let them do it for you. The cost will be more than a standard key, but it's a safer and better way to ensure that your car cannot be started by someone else. Keyless Entry System As increasing numbers of people seek convenience, safety and security, car key fobs have become a standard feature. These devices are able to open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, or start the engine without having a physical key. They can also take some abuse from being tossed around, and are more likely to be lost or stolen than metal keys. It's expensive to replace them, and you might require programming your new fob to connect it with your vehicle. The cost of cutting a standard fob for a key at a hardware shop is around 10 dollars. However, the latest smart keys can be costly when you need to purchase them and then program them. You should expect to pay between $200 and $500 on the replacement key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed for your vehicle. Some advanced car key systems let you use your smartphone as a key. You can lock or unlock your car by using an app on your phone. You can also turn on and off your lights, turn on your parking break, as well as perform other tasks depending on the proximity to the vehicle. These are perfect for those who reside in urban areas, or have children and worry about them leaving the car unattended. Some of these systems can be expensive however, they're more secure than a regular car key because they can monitor your location and stop you from locking the car or turning off the engine when you're far away. They can also help you locate your car in garages that have parking spaces, and some can warn you if the doors have been open or closed. These types of systems can also be beneficial to businesses, such as property managers that oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. They can also make sure that only those with permissions are permitted to enter and exit. Dealership Some people believe that they should go to the dealer if keys are missing. They will need to show proof of ownership, and sometimes the key must be purchased from the manufacturer, which can take a few days. A dealer can usually do the job quicker than a locksmith, and might even charge less. The key fob might require programming for your car. This can be done at the dealership or by reading the owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors and turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off. It could even require pressing a set of buttons which acts as the code. Often, this can be done by the driver, but it is better to have a technician handle it. The year, make and model of the vehicle will have an impact on the cost as well. Newer cars have advanced transponder chips that require pairing with the car by a locksmith or a dealer, and the process can be more costly. A dealer who sells a specific brand of car will be more likely to have the knowledge to replace keys for that model. Some of the larger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler, have many models and are well-versed in the keys. Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the more established brands that have closed or are so old that they no longer manufacture keys are included. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. Typically, these kinds of keys have to be reprogrammed, which can be more difficult and expensive than replacing the key itself. If you have a spare key it is best to get it copied by a specialist rather than getting a replacement from the dealer. You can avoid paying the higher rates for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys, you can rest assured that the key cloned will function.