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In the past, losing your car key replacement cost keys was not a big deal. You could bring your spare to key cutters and purchase a new one for just $10 or less.

Today, however, the process is more complex and expensive. Find out more about the different types of car key replacements keys and how they'll 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 piece with a button you can push to unlock doors and hatchbacks, open the trunk, open windows, roll them down and, possibly, even start the car. The key fob also comes with an embedded electronic chip that communicates with the car's onboard 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 a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob could cost anywhere from $50 to $100, but the true cost is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one.

If your car was built within the last five years, chances are that you'll need to go to the dealership to get a replacement fob as many newer cars require special equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith or a key shop will typically be able to do this for less.

The type of fob you're using will also affect the price. Older vehicles have mechanical keys, while the modern models have transponder keys. Key fobs of both types can be equipped with a variety of functions. They can include keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically or rolling codes that are updated regularly to prevent thieves from stealing the information on your key fob.

You may be able to buy 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, such as Audi and Subaru have security chips inside their key fobs that block them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealers will program a second-hand key fob when it's brought in, but it's highly unlikely that it will work.

You can find information about programming your key fob by visiting the website of the manufacturer or the owner's manual. Try to do this yourself before hiring an expert locksmith or visiting the dealer. You can also look into your car's warranty and auto insurance policy to see whether they will cover the cost of replacing a key fob.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are utilized in most newer cars. These keys contain an embedded chip in the key's head that sends 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 key is more secure than a traditional flat metal key because the transponder chip prevents a car key lost replacement from starting if it does not have the right signal. This technology was developed to prevent theft of cars since it is almost impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the right equipment.

Many cars are also fitted with immobilizers which prevent the vehicle from starting when they are operated with a key that is not transponder. Car thieves have developed methods of stealing cars with transponder key systems.

A locksmith can help to replace your transponder keys if it's damaged or stolen. They will need the details of your vehicle, such as the VIN number and model. They can then either program your existing key to the car's system, or cut a new one. This is a more costly process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys.

Some auto stores, such as AutoZone and Walmart, are also capable of cutting and re-copying the transponder keys, however they might not be in a position to reprogram the chip inside the key. It is best to call a reputable and experienced locksmith company if you want to ensure that a professional will be able to handle the task.

It was relatively easy to create a duplicate key for a car and then hot-wire a car prior to the advent of this latest technology. This was a method used to steal cars and it allowed criminals drive away with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have drastically reduced this crime, but they haven't completely eliminated it completely.

If you need a replacement transponder key or you have lost yours, the best choice is to contact an expert and have them do it for you. It's more expensive than a standard one, but it's a safer and better option to ensure that someone else is unable to start your car.

Keyless Entry System

Car key fobs are now a standard feature in vehicles, as more and more people seek convenience, safety and security. They can open doors, trigger the panic alarm, open the trunk, or start the engine without having a physical key. They can be tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. It's costly to replace keys, and you might need to program your new fob to connect it with your vehicle.

A standard key fob can cost ten or so dollars to get cut at the hardware store, however the latest smart keys aren't cheap if you want to purchase the keys and have them programmed. Depending on your vehicle make and model you can expect to shell out between $200 to $500 to replace a fob in addition to the cost for car key replacement of cutting it and programming it to your vehicle.

Some advanced car key systems let you use your phone as keys. You can lock or unlock your car keys replacements via the app on your phone. You can also turn off and on your lights, turn on your parking break, as well as perform other things based on how close you are to your car. This is ideal for people who reside in urban areas, or if you have children and worry about your children being in the car without supervision.

Certain of these systems may be expensive, but are more secure than a regular car key. They track your location to prevent you from locking or opening the car if you are too far from. Some of these systems will help you locate your car in a garage and others will notify you when you shut or open the doors.

These systems can also be useful for companies such as property managers who manage vacation rentals or offices. These systems permit them to control access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those who have permissions are allowed to enter and exit the premises.

Dealership

Some people feel they must visit a dealer when keys are missing. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership, and could purchase the key from the manufacturer. This could take several days. A dealer can usually do the job quicker than a locksmith and could even charge less.

The key fob may still require to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership, or by consulting your owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, and switching off or on lights and other electronic devices. It could even require pressing a number of buttons that act as codes. This is often handled by the driver, but it is always best to let an expert manage it.

The cost can also be dependent on the year, make and type of vehicle. Modern cars feature sophisticated transponder chips which will need to be paired with the vehicle by a locksmith dealer and the process may be more costly.

A dealer who sells a specific model of car is more likely to know how to change keys for that model. Some of the biggest manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler, have many models and are familiar with keys.

Certain brands are difficult to work with. This includes some of the more established firms that have been shut down or are old enough to have keys that are no longer in production. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are among the companies that are older and no longer produce keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. The keys are typically changed. This is more expensive and difficult than replacing the key.

It is recommended to have your spare key cloned by a professional instead of getting a new one from a dealer. That way you can avoid having to pay for the higher after-hours or weekend rates. If you do lose your keys you can rest easy knowing that the key cloned will function.