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A few years ago, losing your keys to your car wasn't a big deal. You could take your spare to key cutters and purchase an additional one for $10 or less.

Today, however, the process is more complex and costly. Learn more about the various kinds of car keys and how they will cost you to replace them.

Basic Key Fob

Key fobs are a remote control and key in one. It's tiny, plastic device equipped with a button which you can press to unlock doors and 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 made of standard plastic and utilize a standard lock and key mechanism. They're identical to those found on old Pontiacs or Saturns. A basic key fob costs anywhere between $50 and $100, but you'll be charged more if you require a replacement for one that's been lost or damaged.

You'll likely have to visit the dealer if your car is more than five years old. A lot of newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or key shop typically can perform this task for less, though.

The type of fob you have can affect the price. Older cars use mechanical keys, while the latest models use transponder keys. Both of these types can have a wide range of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle instantly to rolling codes that change regularly to prevent thieves from taking and using the key fob information of your car.

You may be able to purchase an aftermarket key fob for less than what you'd pay at the dealership however they might not work with your car. Certain manufacturers, like 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 an aftermarket key fob, if it's purchased, but it's highly unlikely that it will work.

Read the owner's manual for your model or visit the manufacturer's website for information on programming your specific model's key fob. Try to do this yourself prior to paying for a locksmith or going to the dealer. You may also want to check your car's warranty and auto insurance policy to determine whether they cover the cost of replacing a key fob.

Transponder Key

The majority of newer cars have keys that are known as transponder keys. These keys contain an embedded chip in the head of the key which transmits a signal the vehicle when it is put into the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and start the engine. This type of key is more secure than traditional flat metal keys due to transponder chips prevent the car from starting if it fails to receive a signal from the correct key. This technology was developed to prevent theft of cars since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these kinds of keys without the appropriate equipment.

Many cars are also fitted with immobilizers which prevent them from starting when they are operated by a key that is not transponder. Car thieves have developed ways to steal cars equipped with transponder key systems.

A locksmith can help you repair your transponder key in the event that it is damaged or lost. They'll need the details of your particular vehicle, such as the VIN number as well as the model and year. Then, they'll cut a new key or program the current one to the car's system. This is a more costly procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys.

Some automotive stores like AutoZone or Walmart can cut and duplicate transponder keys however, they may not be capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. It is recommended to contact an experienced and reputable locksmith service to be sure that a professional will be capable of handling the job.

It was quite simple to make duplicate keys for a car and then hot-wire a car prior to the advent of this latest technology. This method of stealing cars was frequent and allowed criminals to gain entry and drive off with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have greatly reduced the risk of this crime, but not entirely eliminated it.

If you need a replacement transponder keys or you've lost yours, the best option is to call a professional and have them create it for you. It will cost more than a standard key, but it's a safer and more reliable option to ensure that someone else cannot start your car.

Keyless Entry System

As more and more people demand security, convenience, and safety keys for their cars are now a standard feature. These little transmitters can unlock doors, activate the panic alarm, open the trunk, and even start your engine without having the physical key in your hand. They can be tossed around and are more likely to get lost or stolen. It's expensive to replace them, and you may require programming your new fob to connect it 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 costly when you need to purchase them and then program them. You can expect to spend between $200 and $500 on a replacement key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed to fit in your car.

There are also more advanced car key systems that allow you to make use of your smartphone as an actual key. By using the app on your smartphone, you can remotely lock or unlock your car and you can switch your lights on and off, turn off your parking brake, and do other things based on the proximity of your car. This is ideal for people who reside in urban areas, or if you have children and worry about children leaving the car unattended.

Some of these systems could be expensive, but they are more secure than a standard car key. They track your location to prevent you from locking or starting the car if you are far from. Certain systems will help you locate your car in a garage and others can alert you if you close or open the doors.

These kinds of systems can also be useful for businesses, like property managers who manage vacation rentals or office spaces. These systems allow them to control access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also make sure that only those who have permissions are allowed to enter and exit the premises.

Dealership

Some people believe that they should go to the dealer if their keys are missing. Dealers will ask for proof of ownership, and could request keys from the manufacturer. This can take several days. But a dealer can also typically complete the task for you faster than locksmiths, and might have lower prices, too.

It is likely that the key fob will still need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership, or by consulting the owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors and turning lights and other electronics on and off. It could even require pressing a set of buttons that functions as a code. It is usually done by the driver, but it is always better to have a technician perform it.

The year the model, make and year of the vehicle will affect the price as well. The cost of the service could also be affected by the year, make and model of the vehicle.

A dealer who sells a specific brand of car is more likely to know how to replace keys for the vehicle. Some of the bigger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have a variety of models and are well-versed in keys.

Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have been shut down or are old enough that they no longer manufacture keys are included. Scion, Pontiac and Hummer are among the companies that are older and have stopped producing keys. Mercury, Saturn, Eagle, Mercury, Saturn and Oldsmobile are also included. Typically, these keys need to be reprogrammed which is more difficult and expensive than replacing the key itself.

If you have a spare key, it is best to get it copied by a specialist rather than getting an exchange from the dealer. You will avoid paying higher prices for after-hours and weekend services. If you lose your keys, you can be assured that the duplicate will function.