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Car Keys Replacement Cost It wasn't long ago that misplacing car keys was not a major issue. You could bring your spare to an a key cutter and buy an additional one for $10 or less. Today, however the process is more complicated and expensive. Learn about car key replacement and costs for car keys. Basic Key Fob A key fob is a remote control and key in one. It's tiny, plastic device equipped with a button which you can press to unlock doors or hatchbacks, open the trunk, roll down windows and, possibly, even start the car. The key fob also has an electronic chip inside that communicates with the car's onboard system to manage functions like the starter. Basic key fobs are usually made from standard plastic, and use a regular lock and key mechanism. They're the same as those found on old Pontiacs as well as Saturns. A basic key fob could cost anything from $50 to $100, but the real cost comes when you have 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 visit the dealer for a replacement fob, since many modern cars require specialized equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith or a key shop typically can perform this task for less, though. The type of fob you're using can also impact the cost. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, whereas the latest models usually have transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of keys can have a wide range of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle in a controlled manner to changing codes on a regular basis to stop thieves from stealing and stealing the data from your key fob. You may be able to buy an aftermarket key fob for less than what you'd pay at the dealer however, they may not be compatible with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, including 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 purchased, but it's likely that it won't work. Read the owner's manual for your model or go to the manufacturer's site to find information about programming your particular model's key fob. It's worth trying this yourself prior to going to the dealer or hiring a locksmith to do it. You can also check your car's warranty, roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance coverage to determine if they cover the costs of a replacement fob for your key. Transponder Key Transponder keys are used in the majority of modern cars. They have an embedded chip in the head of the key that sends a signal to the vehicle when it is inserted into 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 since transponder chips stop the car from starting if it fails to receive the right signal from the key. This technology was created to reduce car theft because it is almost impossible to duplicate keys without the appropriate equipment. In addition, many cars also come with immobilizer systems that stop them from starting if a non-transponder key is used. However, car criminals have also come up with methods to break into and steal vehicles that have transponder keys. A locksmith will usually be able to assist you in replacing the damaged or lost transponder key. They'll require the details about your specific vehicle, such as the VIN number, model and year. They can then either program the key you have to the car's system, or cut an entirely new one. This process is a bit more expensive than getting a car dealership to cut and program a new key. Some automotive stores, like AutoZone and Walmart can also be capable of cutting and re-copying a transponder key, but they may not be capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. If you want to ensure that a professional will be able to handle the job, call a reputable and experienced locksmith service. Before the invention of technology like this it was quite simple to create a duplicate car key and then hot wire a car. This method of stealing cars was common and allowed criminals to enter and drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced this crime, but not entirely eliminated it. You can get an expert to handle this for you if you need an alternative transponder key or if you lost yours. It's more expensive than a standard key however it's a safer and more reliable option to ensure that someone else is unable to start your car. Keyless Entry System As more and more people demand convenience, security and safety, car key fobs have become a common feature. These little transmitters can unlock doors, activate the panic alarm and open the trunk and even start your engine without having to carry a physical key in your hands. They can also take a lot of abuse from being used in a variety of ways, and are more likely to get lost or stolen than traditional keys. That means they're expensive to replace, and you might 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. You can expect to spend between $200 and $500 for a replacement key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed for your vehicle. Certain advanced car key systems let you use your smartphone as keys. You can lock or unlock your vehicle remotely using the app on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, turn on your parking break, and do other tasks based on the distance you're to the car. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas, or parents who are concerned about your children leaving the car without supervision. Some of these systems can be expensive however, they're more secure than a standard car key since they track your location and prevent you from accidentally locking your 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 can even warn you if the doors are opened or closed. These systems are also useful for businesses like property managers who manage office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to monitor the access rights of guests cleaners, guests, and maintenance personnel, while ensuring that only those who have the appropriate permissions are allowed to get in and out of the space. 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 has to be purchased from the manufacturer, which could take a few days. A dealer can usually do the job faster than a locksmith, and might even cost less. The key fob may still require programming to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealer or by reading the owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, as well as turning on and off lights and other electronic devices. It could even require pressing a number of buttons that act as an electronic code. Often, this can be done by the driver, however, it is best to have a technician handle it. The year the model, make and year of the car will have an impact on the price as well. The cost of the service may also be affected by the year, make and model of the vehicle. A dealer who sells a particular model of car is more likely to be able to replace keys for that model. Some of the biggest manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a wide number of models and are more familiar with the keys that are used for those models. Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the more established brands that have been shut down or are so old that they no longer manufacture keys are included. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are a few of the older companies that have stopped producing keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these types of keys need to be reprogrammed, which can be more complicated and costly than replacing the key itself. If you have a spare key it is usually best to duplicate it at a specialist rather than getting an alternative from the dealer. You will avoid paying higher prices for after-hours and weekend services. If you do lose your keys you can rest easy knowing that the cloned key will function.