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It wasn't that long ago that losing car keys was not a major issue. You could take your spare key to a key cutter for the replacement key for less than $10.

Nowadays, however, the process is more complicated and costly. Read on to learn about the various kinds of car keys and how they will cost you to replace.

Basic Key Fob

Key fobs are an electronic remote and a key in one. It's a tiny plastic device that contains one or more buttons that you can push to unlock the doors and open the trunk or hatchback, lower the windows and maybe even start the car. The key fob comes with an electronic chip embedded that communicates with your car's onboard systems to regulate functions like the starter.

A basic key fob is usually constructed of plastic that employs a lock-and key mechanism, like the type you'd find on a vintage Pontiac or Saturn. A basic key fob can cost anywhere from $50 to $100, but the real cost comes when you have to replace a lost or damaged one.

If your car was built in the last five years, the chances are you'll need to go to the dealership for a replacement fob, as many newer vehicles require special equipment to program and code new keys. A locksmith or a key shop typically can perform this task for less, however.

The cost of your fob can be affected by the type you have. Older cars 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 your vehicle instantly to rolling codes that change regularly to stop thieves from stealing and using your car's key fob data.

Key fobs purchased online may be cheaper than those you can purchase from a dealer, but they might not work with your vehicle. Certain manufacturers, like Audi and Subaru have security chips that block their key fobs from interacting with third party devices. Some dealerships will program an aftermarket fob when you bring it in however there's a high chance that it won't function.

Go through your owner's manual or go to the manufacturer's site for more information on programming your specific model's key fob. It's worth trying this yourself prior to going to the dealership or paying an expert locksmith. You can also check the warranty on your vehicle and the auto-insurance policy to determine whether they cover the cost of a new key fob.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are used in the majority of newer automobiles. The keys contain embedded chips in the head that sends an electronic message to the vehicle once it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and launching the engine. This type of key is more secure than conventional flat metal keys due to transponder chips stop the car from starting if it doesn't receive a signal from the correct key. This technology was created to prevent theft of cars since it is virtually impossible to duplicate these types of keys without the proper equipment.

In addition, many cars also have immobilizer systems which prevent them from starting if the key is not transponder-compatible. Car thieves have come up with methods of stealing cars with transponder key systems.

A locksmith can help you replace your transponder key if it is damaged or lost. They will need to have the details about your specific vehicle, including the VIN number as well as the model and year. Then, they'll cut a new one or program the existing one to your car's system. This is a more expensive procedure than having a dealer cut and program replacement keys.

Some auto stores, such as AutoZone and Walmart can also be capable of cutting and re-copying the transponder key, however they may not be capable of reprogramming the chip in the key. If you want to ensure that a professional will be able to handle the task, you should contact an experienced and trusted locksmith company.

It was relatively easy to create duplicate keys for a car, and then hot-wire a vehicle before the advent of this latest technology. This technique was used to steal cars and it permitted criminals to steal stolen vehicles. The introduction of transponder keys has greatly reduced this activity, but it is not completely eliminated.

You can contact an expert to handle this for you if you require an extra transponder key or if you've lost one. It's more expensive than a standard key but it's a safer and better option to ensure that anyone else is unable to start your car.

Keyless Entry System

Car key fobs are now a standard feature in vehicles as more people want convenience, safety, and security. These tiny transmitters can open doors, set off the alarm that sounds a panic or open the trunk and even start your car without having the physical key in your hands. They can also take quite a beating from being tossed around, and are more likely to get lost or stolen than the metal keys. They're also expensive to replace, and you may need fob programming to pair your new one with your vehicle.

A basic key fob will cost about ten dollars to cut at a hardware store, but the most recent smart keys aren't cheap if you're looking to purchase them and have them programmed. Based on the make and model, you can expect to shell out between $200 to $500 for a replacement fob plus the cost replacement car key of cutting it and programming it to your car.

Some advanced car key systems let you use your phone as keys. You can lock or unlock your vehicle via the app on your smartphone. You can also turn off and on your lights, turn on your parking break, as well as perform other tasks based on the proximity to the vehicle. These apps are ideal for those who reside in urban areas or if you have kids and are worried about them leaving the car unattended.

Some of these systems could be expensive, but are more secure than a standard car key. They monitor your location to stop you from accidentally locking or starting the car when you are too far from. They can also help you locate your car inside a parking garage and even alert you if the doors have been open or closed.

These kinds of systems can also be beneficial for companies, such as property managers who oversee office spaces or vacation rentals. These systems can allow them to monitor the access rights for guests cleaners, guests, and maintenance workers, while ensuring that only those with the right permissions can get into and out of the space.

Dealership

Some people might feel that they must visit a dealership if their keys disappear. They'll have to show proof of ownership, and occasionally the key has to be purchased from the manufacturer, which could take several days. A dealer is usually able to complete the job faster than a locksmith, and might even charge less.

The key fob could require to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealership or by reading the owner's manual. It involves closing and opening doors, as well as turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off. It could also require pressing a set of buttons that functions as the code. This is usually handled by the drivers, but it's always better to let an expert handle it.

The cost can also be dependent on the year, model and year of vehicle. Newer cars keys replacement have advanced transponder chips that need to be paired with the vehicle by a locksmith or dealer and the process could be more expensive.

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, Chrysler and Nissan have a huge number of models and are more acquainted with the keys for the models they sell.

Other brands are more difficult to work with. Some of the older brands that have shut down or are so old that they no longer produce keys are included. This includes Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn, and Eagle. Typically, these types of keys need to be reprogrammed, which can be more difficult and more expensive than replacing the key itself.

If you have a spare key it is recommended to have it cloned at a specialist rather than getting an alternative from the dealer. This way, you avoid having to pay for the higher after-hours or weekend rates. Then, if you lose your keys, you can rest assured that the copied key will function.