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Car Keys Replacement Cost Not long ago, misplacing your keys to your car wasn't an issue. You could take your spare keys to a key cutter and get a new one for just $10 or less. Today, however the process can be more complicated and costly. Read on to learn about the various types of car keys and how they can cost you to replace them. Basic Key Fob Key fobs are an electronic remote and a key in one. It's a small plastic device that houses buttons or buttons that you press to unlock the doors, open the trunk or hatchback, roll down the windows, and perhaps start the car. The key fob comes with an electronic chip in it that communicates with the car's onboard systems to regulate functions such as the starter. A basic key fob is typically made of standard plastic and employs a lock-and key mechanism, such as the type you'd find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob may cost between $50 and $100, but the true price is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one. If your car was built in the last five years, the chances are that you'll need to go to the dealership for a replacement fob as many newer cars require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or a key shop will usually be able to do this for less. The cost of your fob can also be affected by the type you have. Older cars have mechanical key fobs while the most recent models utilize transponder keys. Both types of key fobs can come with a variety of features. They could include keyless entry, which locks and unlocks your car automatically or rolling codes that are updated frequently to keep thieves from intercepting the data on the key fob. You might be able to purchase an aftermarket key fob online at a lower cost than what you'd pay at a dealership however they might not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from interacting with third-party devices. Some dealers can program an aftermarket key fob if it's brought in, but it's likely that it won't work. You can get information on programming your key fob by looking up the manufacturer's site or your owner's guide. You should try to do this yourself prior to paying a locksmith or going to the dealer. You may also want to check your vehicle's warranty and auto-insurance policy to see if they cover the cost of a new key fob. Transponder Key Most newer cars use keys that are known as a transponder key. These keys contain an embedded chip 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 begin the engine. This type of key is more secure than conventional flat metal keys since a transponder chip prevents the car from starting if it doesn't receive the right signal from the key. This technology was designed to prevent theft of cars since it is nearly impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the proper equipment. Many vehicles are also equipped with immobilizers that prevent them from being started when they are operated by a key that is not transponder. However, thieves have also developed ways to gain access and steal cars that are equipped with transponder keys. A locksmith can help you replace your transponder key if it is damaged or lost. They'll need details about your car including the VIN number and model. Then they will either cut a new key or program the current one to your car's system. This is a little more expensive than getting a car dealership to cut and program a new key. Some automotive stores like AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and copy transponder keys, but they aren't capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. It is best to call an experienced and reliable locksmith company if you want to ensure that a professional is capable of handling the job. Before the invention of this technology it was quite easy for someone to make duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a vehicle. This method of stealing cars was very common and allowed criminals to gain entry and drive off with stolen vehicles. The introduction of transponder keys has greatly reduced the likelihood of this happening but it's not completely eliminated. If you need a replacement transponder key, or have lost yours, the best option is to contact an expert and let them do it for you. The cost will be more than a traditional key but it is a much safer and more secure method to ensure that your vehicle is not able to be started by anyone else. Keyless Entry System Car key fobs are now a standard feature in vehicles as people are seeking convenience, security, and security. These transmitters can open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, and even start the engine without an actual key. They are easily tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. It's expensive to replace them, and you may require programming your new key to pair it with your vehicle. The cost of cutting a standard key fob in a hardware shop is around 10 dollars. However, the newest smart keys can be expensive if you must purchase them as well as programme them. Based on the model and make you can expect to shell out between $200 to $500 to replace a fob and the cost of cutting it and programming it to your car. There are other more advanced car keys systems that let you use your smartphone as a key. Using the app on your smartphone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car and you can also turn your lights on and off, activate your parking brake, and perform other things depending on the proximity of your car. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas, or if you have kids and are worried about them leaving the car unattended. Some of these systems are costly however, they're more secure than a standard car key as they locate you and prevent you from locking the car or turning off the engine in case you're not close enough. They can also assist you to find your car in parking garages, and some can warn you if the doors have been opened or closed. These systems are also useful for businesses like property managers who oversee offices or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to monitor the access rights for guests, cleaning staff, and maintenance personnel, while making sure that only those with the appropriate permissions are allowed to get into and out of the space. Dealership Some people believe they need to visit a dealer when keys are missing. They will need to show proof of ownership, and sometimes keys must be ordered from the manufacturer which can take a few days. A dealer can usually do the job more quickly than a locksmith, and could even cost less. The key fob may still require to be programmed for 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 on and off lights and other electronic devices. It could also require pressing a set of buttons that functions as a code. This is often handled by the drivers, however it is always best to let an expert take care of it. The cost will also be dependent on the year, make and type of vehicle. The cost of the service may be affected by the year, make and model of the vehicle. A dealer who sells a particular brand of car is more likely to know how to replace keys for that vehicle. Some of the larger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a huge variety of models and are more acquainted with the keys for the specific models. Certain brands are difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have closed or are old enough that they no longer make keys are listed. G28 Car Keys , Pontiac and Hummer are among the more established companies that no longer produce keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. These keys are usually modified. This is more expensive and difficult than replacing the key. In general, if you have a spare key, it is best to get it copied by a specialist rather than getting a replacement from the dealer. That way you can avoid paying the higher after-hours or weekend rates. If you lose your keys you can be sure that the cloned one will work.