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It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys to cars was not a big issue. You could bring your spare key to a key cutter and get the
replacement car key fobs key for less than $10.
Nevertheless the process has gotten more complicated and costly. Learn more about the different types of keys for cars and what they will cost you to replace.
Basic Key Fob
A key fob is both an remote as well as a key in one. It's a small, plastic device that has a button or buttons that you can push to unlock the doors and open the trunk or hatchback, open the windows and maybe even start the car. The key fob also comes with an embedded electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard system to manage functions like the starter.
A basic key fob is usually made of standard plastic and uses a regular lock-and-key mechanism, like the one you'd find on an old Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob may cost between $50 and $100, but the true cost is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one.
If your car was made in the last five years, the chances that you'll have to visit the dealer for a replacement fob as many newer cars require specialized equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith shop or key shop is usually in a position to provide this service at a lower cost.
The cost of the fob you purchase can depend on the type you have. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, while modern models have transponder keys. Key fobs of both kinds can be equipped with a variety of features. They could include keyless entry, which locks and unlocks your car automatically or rolling codes that are changed frequently to stop thieves from stealing the data on the key fob.
You might be able to buy an aftermarket key fob online for less than what you'd pay at the dealership, but these may not work with your car. Certain manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips that prevent their key fobs from interacting with third party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in, but there's a good possibility that it won't function.
Check your owner's manual or go to the manufacturer's site for information about programming your particular model's key fob. It's a good idea to try this yourself before heading to the dealership or paying a locksmith to do it. You can also look at your vehicle's warranty, roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance coverage to see if these cover the costs of a replacement key fob.
Transponder Key
Most modern cars utilize a type of key called transponder keys. The keys contain an embedded chip in the head that transmits an electronic message to the vehicle after it is inserted in the ignition cylinder. The signal is used to unlock the car and begin the engine. This key is more secure than the traditional flat metal keys because the transponder chip stops cars from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was designed to stop car theft since it is almost impossible to duplicate these keys without the proper equipment.
Many cars are also fitted with immobilizers that prevent the vehicle from starting when they are operated with keys that are not transponder. However,
cheapest car key replacement thieves have also devised ways to gain access and steal cars that are equipped with transponder keys.
A locksmith can help replace your transponder key if it's damaged or stolen. They will require information about your vehicle like the VIN number and model. They'll either program your existing key to the car's computer system or cut new keys. This procedure is more expensive than simply cutting a key from a dealership and program a replacement key.
Some automotive stores like AutoZone or Walmart can also cut and copy transponder keys, but may not be capable of reprogramming chips in the key. It is best to call a reputable and experienced locksmith firm to ensure that a professional is competent to complete the task.
It was fairly easy to create duplicate keys for a car and wire a vehicle prior to the advent of this new technology. This was a method used to steal cars and allowed criminals drive away with stolen vehicles. The introduction of the transponder key has greatly reduced this activity but it's not completely eliminated.
If you require a new transponder key or you have lost yours, the best solution is to call an expert and let them create it for you. The cost will be higher than a standard key, but it's a safer and better method to ensure that your vehicle can't be started by anyone else.
Keyless Entry System
Car key fobs are becoming a standard feature of vehicles, as more and more people want convenience, security and security. These transmitters can open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, and even start the engine without a physical key. They can be tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. This means they're costly to replace, and you could need fob programming to pair your new key with your vehicle.
The cost of cutting a standard key fob in a hardware store is about 10 dollars. However, the newest smart keys can be costly if you have to buy them and then program them. It is possible to spend between $200 and $500 on a
replacement car key cost key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed to fit in your car.
There are other more advanced car keys systems that allow you to make use of your smartphone as a key. With the application 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 depending on the proximity of your car. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas, or if you're a parent that's worried about your kids leaving the car without supervision.
Some of these systems can be expensive, but are more secure than a standard car key. They keep track of your location to prevent you from locking or opening the car when you are far away. They can also assist you to locate your car inside garages that have parking spaces and can even warn you if the doors are open or closed.
These types of systems can also be beneficial to companies, such as property managers who manage office space or vacation rentals. These systems allow them to monitor access rights of guests, cleaning staff, and maintenance staff, as well as ensuring that only those with the proper permissions can go in and out of the space.
Dealership
Some people might feel that they need to go to the dealership when keys go missing. The dealer will ask for proof of ownership and request the key from the manufacturer. This could take several days. But a dealer can also usually get the job done for you much faster than locksmiths, and might have lower prices, too.
The key fob might need to be programmed for your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership, or by consulting the owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, and switching off or on lights and other electronic devices. It could also involve pressing a series of buttons which acts as the code. Most of the time, this is performed by the driver, but it is better to have a technician do it.
The cost is also affected by the year, make and type of vehicle. Modern cars feature high-tech transponder chips that will need to be paired with the car by a locksmith or a dealer and the process could be more costly.
A dealer who sells a specific brand of vehicle is more likely to be able to replace the keys for that particular vehicle. Some of the bigger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have a variety of models and are familiar with keys.
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 manufacture keys are included. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn, and Eagle. Typically, these keys have to be reprogrammed which is more complicated and costly than replacing the key itself.
If you have a spare key it is recommended to duplicate it at a specialist rather than getting a replacement from the dealer. This way, you avoid having to pay the higher after-hours or weekend rates. If you do lose your keys, you can rest easy knowing that the cloned key will function.
