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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 bring your spare key to a key cutter and get a new one that cost $10 or less. Nevertheless the process has gotten more complicated and costly. Learn about the various types and costs for car keys. Basic Key Fob A key fob can be described as an electronic remote control and a key in one. It's a small plastic device that contains one or more buttons that you push to unlock the doors, open the trunk or hatchback, roll down 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 like the starter. Basic key fobs are usually made of standard plastic and use a regular lock and key mechanism. They are identical to those found on old Pontiacs as well as Saturns. A basic key fob costs anywhere between $50 to $100, however you'll be charged more if you need to replace one that's lost or damaged. If your car was built within the past five years, chances that you'll have to visit the dealer for a replacement fob as many newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith shop or key shop is usually able to do this for less. The cost of your fob can also depend on the type of fob you own. Older cars have mechanical keys, while the modern models have transponder keys. Both of these types can have a wide range of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the vehicle in a controlled manner to rolling codes that are updated regularly to prevent thieves from taking and stealing the data from your key fob. Key fobs purchased online may be cheaper than those you can get from the dealer, but they may not be compatible with your car. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that prevent their key fobs from interfacing with third party devices. Some dealerships can program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in however there's a high possibility that it won't work. Go through your owner's manual or search the manufacturer's website for information about programming your particular model's key fob. Try to do this yourself before hiring a locksmith or going to the dealer. You could 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 Most newer cars use a type of key called transponder keys. The keys contain an embedded chip in the head that transmits an information to the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and starting the engine. This key type is more secure than conventional flat metal keys since transponder chips prevent the car from starting if it doesn't receive the right signal from the key. This technology was designed to reduce car theft because it is virtually impossible to duplicate keys without the appropriate equipment. Additionally, many vehicles also have immobilizer systems that prevent them from starting when the key is not transponder-compatible. Car thieves have devised ways to steal cars equipped with transponder key systems. A locksmith can usually help you replace a lost or damaged transponder key. They'll need details of your vehicle like the VIN number and model. They will then either program your current key to the car's system, or cut new keys. This is a little more expensive than getting a car dealership to cut and program a new 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 best to call a reputable and experienced locksmith company if you want to ensure that a professional is competent to complete the task. Before the advent of technology like this it was fairly easy for someone to make duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a vehicle. This was a method used to steal cars and it allowed criminals to drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced this crime, but not entirely eliminated it completely. If you need a new transponder keys or you've lost yours, the best solution is to contact an expert and let them make it for you. The cost will be more than a traditional key but it's a safer and better method to ensure that your vehicle is not able to be started by anyone else. Keyless Entry System As increasing numbers of people seek convenience, safety and security key fobs for cars have become a standard feature. These tiny transmitters can open doors, activate the alarm for panic and open the trunk and even start your engine without having to have a physical key in your hand. They can be tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. It's costly 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 most recent smart keys can be costly if you have to buy them, as well as program them. It is possible to spend between $200 and $500 on the replacement key fob. This includes the cost to have it cut and programmed for your vehicle. Some advanced car key systems let you use your phone as a key. Using the app on your phone, 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 based on the proximity of your car. These are perfect for those who reside in urban areas, or if you have kids and are worried about your children being in the car without supervision. Certain of these systems are costly however they're also more secure than a regular car key since they track your location and prevent you from accidentally locking the car or turning the engine on if you're too far away. They also can help you locate your car in parking garages, and some can warn you if the doors are open or closed. These systems can also be useful for businesses like property managers who manage offices or vacation rentals. These systems can allow them to monitor the access rights for guests cleaners, guests, and maintenance workers, while ensuring that only those with the appropriate permissions are allowed to get in and out of the space. automotive key replacement G28 Car Keys may feel that they have to go to the dealer if keys go missing. They'll need to provide proof of ownership, and sometimes keys must be ordered from the manufacturer, which could take a few days. A dealer can usually do the job more quickly than a locksmith and could even charge less. The key fob could require programming for your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership, or by reading your owner's manual. It involves opening and closing doors and turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off. It could even require pressing a number of buttons that function as an electronic code. Most of the time, this is performed by the driver but it is always better to have a technician perform it. The year the car was manufactured, its model and make of the car will have an impact on the price, too. Modern cars come with sophisticated transponder chips which will require pairing with the car by a locksmith or dealer, and the process can be more expensive. A dealer that sells a certain model of car is more likely to know how to change keys for that model. Some of the bigger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have a variety of models and are well-versed in keys. Other brands are more difficult to work with. This includes a few of the older firms that have been shut down or are old enough to have keys that are no longer being produced. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn, and Eagle. These keys are usually modified. This can be more expensive and difficult than replacing the key. It is recommended that you have your spare key cloned by a specialist rather than buying another one from a dealer. That way you can avoid having to pay for the higher after-hours or weekend rates. If you lose your keys you can be assured that the duplicate will work.