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Car Keys Replacement Cost Not long ago, misplacing your car keys was not a big deal. You could take your spare to a key cutter and get a new one for just $10 or less. Today, however, the process is more complicated and costly. Learn about the various types and costs of car keys. Basic Key Fob A key fob can be described as an remote control as well as key in one. It's a tiny plastic device that has one or more buttons that you push to unlock the doors and open the trunk or hatchback, lower the windows, and perhaps start the car. The key fob also comes with an electronic chip inside that communicates with the car's onboard computer system to control functions such as the starter. A basic key fob is usually made of standard plastic and employs a lock-and key mechanism, like the type you'd find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob may cost anywhere from $50 to $100, but the true cost comes when you have to replace a damaged or lost one. You'll likely have to visit a dealer if the car is more than five years old. Most newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith shop or key shop is usually capable of doing this at a lower cost. The cost of your fob can also depend on the type you have. Older cars use mechanical keys, whereas the latest models usually have transponder keys or smart keys. Key fobs of both kinds are able to be fitted with a variety of functions. They may include keyless entry, which locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically or rolling codes that are changed frequently to stop thieves from stealing the information on your key fob. Key fobs that are available online could be cheaper than those you can buy at the dealer, but they might not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru include security chips in their key fobs that block them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealerships can program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in but there's a good chance it won't continue to function. Check your owner's manual or search the manufacturer's website to find information on programming your specific model's key fob. It's worth trying this yourself prior to going to the dealership or paying an expert locksmith. You can also check the warranty on your vehicle and the auto-insurance policy to see whether they will cover the cost of a new key fob. Transponder Key Transponder keys are utilized in most newer cars. The keys have an embedded chip in the key's head which transmits a signal the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and launching the engine. This key type is more secure than standard flat metal keys due to transponder chips stop the car from starting if it fails to receive a signal from the correct key. This technology was developed to stop car theft since 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 the key is not transponder-compatible. Car thieves have come up with ways to steal cars equipped with transponder key systems. A locksmith can help you repair your transponder key in the event that it's damaged or lost. They'll require the details about your specific vehicle, including the VIN number, model and year. They will then either program the key you have to the car's computer system or cut new keys. This is a more costly procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys. Some stores for automotive, such as AutoZone and Walmart are also capable of cutting and copying a transponder key, but they might not be able to reprogram the chip in the key. If you want to be sure that a professional can handle the task, you should call a reputable and experienced locksmith service. It was fairly easy to make a duplicate key for a car and wire a vehicle prior to the advent of this new technology. This method of stealing cars was very common and allowed criminals to get into and drive away with stolen vehicles. The introduction of the transponder key has greatly reduced the likelihood of this happening but it's not completely eliminated. You can get an expert to handle this for you in the event that you require a replacement transponder key, or if you've lost one. The cost will be higher than a conventional key, however it's a safer and better method to ensure that your car is not able to 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 little transmitters can unlock doors, activate the panic alarm or open the trunk and even start your engine without having to have a physical key in your hands. They can be thrown around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. That means they're expensive to replace, and you might require fob programming in order to pair your new key with your vehicle. A basic key fob will cost around ten dollars to get cut at the hardware store, however the most recent smart keys aren't cheap when you need to buy them and have them programmed. Based on the make and model you can expect to pay between $200 to $500 to replace a fob plus the cost of having it cut and programmed to your vehicle. Certain advanced car key systems allow you to use your smartphone as an actual key. With the application on your phone, you can remote lock or unlock your car, and you can turn your lights on and off, as well as activate your parking brake, and do other things depending on your proximity to the car. These are great for people who live in urban areas, or parents who are concerned about your children leaving the car unattended. Some of these systems are expensive however they're also more secure than a regular car key since they monitor your location and stop you from accidentally locking your car or turning the engine on when you're far away. They also can help you locate your car inside a parking garage and can even warn you when the doors are open or closed. These kinds of systems can also be beneficial for companies, such as property managers who manage office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems let them control access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also make sure that only those who have permissions are permitted to enter and exit. Dealership Some people may think that they need to visit a dealership if keys go missing. They will need to show proof of ownership, and sometimes the key has to be ordered from the manufacturer, which can take a few days. However, a dealer can generally complete the task for you much faster than locksmiths, and they might have lower prices, too. The key fob may still require programming to your vehicle. This can be done either at the dealer or by looking up the owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors and turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off. It could also require pressing a set of buttons that acts like an electronic code. Most of the time, this is performed by the driver but it is better to have a technician handle it. The cost will also be dependent on the year, make and type of vehicle. Modern cars come with sophisticated transponder chips which will require pairing with the car by a locksmith or a dealer, and the process can be more costly. A dealer who sells a specific model of car is more likely to know how to change keys for the model. Some of the bigger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a wide number of models and are more acquainted with the keys for the specific models. Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have shut down or that are old enough that they no longer make keys are included. g28carkeys.co.uk , Pontiac and Hummer are some of the companies that are older and have stopped producing 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. If you have a spare key, it is usually best to get it copied by an expert instead of obtaining an alternative from the dealer. You will avoid paying higher rates for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys, you can be sure that the cloned one will work.