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It wasn't that long ago that losing car keys was not a problem. You could take your spare to key cutters and purchase a new one for just $10 or less.

Today, however, the process can be more complicated and expensive. Learn about the different types and costs of keys for cars.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob is an electronic remote control and key in one. It's a small plastic device that contains one or more buttons that you press to unlock the doors and open the trunk or hatchback, roll down the windows, and possibly 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.

Basic key fobs are usually made of standard plastic and are fitted with a standard lock and key mechanism. They're similar to the ones found on old Pontiacs as well as Saturns. A basic key fob can cost between $50 to $100, however you'll pay more if you require a replacement for one that's been lost or damaged.

You'll likely have to visit a dealer if your car is more than five years old. Many newer cars require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or a key shop can usually do this for less, however.

The cost of the fob you purchase can be affected by the type you have. Older vehicles use mechanical key fobs, while the most recent models typically have transponder keys or smart keys. Key fobs of both types can come with a variety of functions. They may include keyless entry that locks and unlocks your vehicle automatically, or rolling codes that change frequently to keep thieves from intercepting the data on the key fob.

Key fobs purchased online may be less expensive than the ones you can purchase from a dealer, but they might not work on your car. Certain manufacturers, such as Audi and Subaru include security chips in their key fobs that prevent them from working with devices that are not third-party. Some dealers will program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in however there's a high chance that it won't work.

Read the owner's manual for your model or visit the manufacturer's website for information about programming your particular model's key fob. It's worth trying to do this yourself before going to the dealer or hiring an expert locksmith. You can also look at your car's warranty, roadside assistance policy, and auto-insurance coverage to see if these cover the costs of a replacement car keys with chips key fob.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are found in the majority of newer automobiles. They have an embedded chip in the head that sends a message to the vehicle after it is placed in the ignition cylinder. The signal is used to unlock the car and start the engine. This key is more secure than the traditional flat metal keys because the transponder chip stops a car from starting without the correct signal. This technology was developed to reduce car theft because it is almost impossible to duplicate these keys without the proper equipment.

Many cars are also equipped with immobilizers that prevent them from starting if they are used with keys that do not have a transponder. Car thieves have devised methods of stealing cars with transponder key systems.

A locksmith is usually able to help you replace the damaged or lost transponder key. They'll need the details of your particular vehicle, such as the VIN number, model and year. They can then either program your current 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 they aren't capable of reprogramming the chip inside the key. You should contact a reputable and experienced locksmith company if you want to ensure that a professional is capable of handling the job.

Before the advent of this technology, it was relatively simple to create a duplicate car key and then hot wire a vehicle. This method of stealing cars was frequent and allowed criminals to gain entry and drive off with stolen vehicles. Transponder keys have significantly reduced the risk of this crime, but not entirely eliminated it.

If you require a new transponder key or you have lost yours, the best option is to call a professional and have them create it for you. It's more expensive than a standard key but it's a much safer and more secure alternative to ensure that someone else will not be able 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. These tiny transmitters can open doors, activate the alarm that sounds a panic and open the trunk and even start your engine without having the physical key in your hands. They can also take a lot of abuse from being tossed around and they are more likely to get lost or stolen than the metal keys. This means they're costly to replace, and you could require fob programming to connect the new key with your vehicle.

The cost of car key replacement of cutting a standard fob for a key at an hardware store is around 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 for an alternative key fob. This includes the cost of car key replacement to have it cut and programmed for your vehicle.

There are also more advanced car key systems that let you use your smartphone as an actual key. You can lock or unlock your vehicle via the app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn on and off your lights, activate your parking break, as well as perform other tasks based on how close you are to the car. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas, or if you have children and worry about them leaving the cheap car key replacement near me unattended.

Certain of these systems can be expensive, but they're also more secure than a standard car key as they track your location and prevent you from accidentally locking the car or turning off the engine if you're too far away. Some of these systems can assist you in finding your car in a garage and others can alert you if you close or open the doors.

These systems are also useful for businesses such as property managers who oversee offices or vacation rentals. These systems let them control access rights for guests and cleaning staff. They can also make sure that only those with permissions are allowed to enter and exit the premises.

Dealership

Some people believe that they should go to the dealer if keys are missing. They'll have to show proof of ownership, and occasionally the key must be ordered from the manufacturer which could take several days. But a dealer can also typically complete the task for you faster than locksmiths, and they 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 dealer or by consulting your owner's guide. It involves opening and closing doors, and switching off or on lights and other electronic devices. It may even require pressing a number of buttons which act as an electronic code. This is usually handled by the drivers, however it's best to let an expert take care of it.

The year, make and model of the vehicle will affect the cost as well. Modern cars come with sophisticated transponder chips which will require pairing with the car by a locksmith dealer and the process may be more expensive.

A dealer who sells a particular brand of car is more likely know how to replace keys for the vehicle. Some of the larger manufacturers, like Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have several models and are well-versed in keys.

Other brands are more difficult to work with. This includes a few of the older companies that have 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. The keys are typically modified. This can be more expensive and time-consuming than replacing the key.

If you have a spare key it is usually best to get it copied by a specialist instead of getting an exchange from the dealer. So, you don't have to worry about having to pay for the higher after-hours or weekend rates. Then, if you do lose your keys you can rest easy knowing that the copied key will work.