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g28carkeys wasn't long ago that misplacing car keys was not a major issue. You could take your spare key to a key cutter and get the replacement key for less than $10. Today, however the process is more complex and expensive. Learn about the various types and costs for car keys. Basic Key Fob A key fob is both a remote and key in one. It's a small, plastic device that has one or more buttons that you push to unlock the doors and open the trunk or hatchback, open the windows, and possibly start the car. The key fob has an electronic chip in it that communicates with the car's onboard systems to regulate functions like the starter. Basic key fobs are made from standard plastic, and use a regular lock and key mechanism. They are the same as those found on old Pontiacs as well as Saturns. A basic key fob can cost between $50 and $100, but the real price is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one. You'll probably need to visit the dealer if the 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 typically can perform this task for less, though. The cost of the fob you purchase can depend on the type of fob you own. Older vehicles use mechanical key fobs, whereas the most recent models typically have transponder keys or smart keys. Both types of keys come with a variety of features, from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the vehicle instantly to rolling codes that change regularly to deter thieves from intercepting and stealing the data from your key fob. Online key fobs may be less expensive than the ones you can purchase from a dealer, but they might not work on your car. Certain manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips that stop their key fobs from working with third-party devices. Some dealerships will program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in however there's a high possibility that it won't function. You can find information about programming your key fob by looking up the website of the manufacturer or your owner's guide. It is recommended to try this yourself prior to paying 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 a brand new key fob. Transponder Key Transponder keys are used in the majority of newer automobiles. They have a chip embedded into the head that sends a message to the vehicle once it is inserted in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used to unlock the car and starting the engine. This key is more secure than the conventional flat metal key due to the transponder chip blocks cars from starting without the proper signal. This technology was designed to prevent theft of cars because it is almost impossible to duplicate these keys without the proper equipment. Additionally, many vehicles also have immobilizer systems that prevent them from starting if a non-transponder key is used. However, criminals have also come up with methods to gain access and steal vehicles that have transponder keys. A locksmith is usually able to help you replace the damaged or lost transponder key. They will need to have the details of your particular vehicle, such as the VIN number along with the year, model and year. They can then either program your existing key to the car's computer system or cut a new one. This is a more costly process than having a dealership cut and program replacement keys. Some automotive stores, like AutoZone and Walmart are also capable of cutting and copying the transponder keys, however they may not be able to reprogram the chip in the key. It is best to call an experienced and reliable locksmith company if you want to ensure that a professional is competent to complete the task. Before the invention of technology like this it was quite easy to make duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a car. This technique was used to steal cars and it allowed criminals drive away with stolen vehicles. The advent of transponder keys has drastically reduced this crime, but it is not completely eliminated. If you require a new transponder key or you have lost yours, the best solution is to call a professional and have them create it for you. The cost will be more than a conventional key, but it is a much safer and more secure method to ensure that your vehicle cannot be started by someone else. Keyless Entry System Car key fobs are now an everyday feature in cars as more people want convenience, safety and security. These little transmitters can unlock doors, activate the alarm for panic, open the trunk, and even start your engine without needing to carry a physical key in your hands. But they can also take quite a beating from being used in a variety of ways, and they are more likely to get lost or stolen than the metal keys. It's costly to replace them, and you might require programming your new fob to connect it with your vehicle. A standard key fob can cost around ten dollars to cut at a hardware store, but the most recent smart keys aren't cheap when you're looking to purchase them and then have them programmed. It is possible to spend between $200 and $500 for the replacement key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed for your car. There are also more advanced car key systems that allow you to make use of your smartphone as an actual key. You can lock or unlock your car via the app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, activate your parking break, and do other tasks depending on the proximity to 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. Some of these systems are costly however they're also more secure than a regular car key because they can track your location and prevent you from accidentally locking your car or turning the engine on when you're far away. Certain systems can help you locate your vehicle in a garage, while others can alert you if you shut or open the doors. These kinds of systems can also be beneficial to businesses, like property managers that oversee office space or vacation rentals. These systems permit them to check access rights of guests and cleaning staff. They can also ensure that only those with permissions are permitted to enter and exit. Dealership Some people may think that they need to visit a dealership if their keys are lost. The dealer will request proof of ownership and may request the key from the manufacturer. This can take several days. But a dealer will usually get the job done for you quicker than a locksmith, and they might have lower prices, as well. It is likely that the key fob will need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by consulting the owner's manual. It involves opening and shutting doors, as well as switching off and on lights and other electronic devices. It could even require pressing a set of buttons which acts as an electronic code. This is usually handled by the drivers, however it is always best to let an expert handle it. The cost will also be affected by the year, make and model of vehicle. Modern cars feature high-tech transponder chips that will require pairing with the car by a locksmith or dealer and the process may be more expensive. A dealer that sells a specific brand of car is more likely to know how to replace keys for the vehicle. Some of the biggest manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota and Chrysler have a variety of models and are familiar with the keys. Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the more established brands that have closed or are old enough that they no longer produce keys are listed. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn and Eagle. Typically, these types of keys have to be reprogrammed, which can be more difficult and more expensive than replacing the key itself. It is best to have your spare key cloned by a specialist rather than buying a new one from the dealer. You will not have to pay the more expensive rates for after-hours or weekend services. If you lose your keys, you can be assured that the cloned one will function.