When you lose your Car Key Replacement, it can be a frustrating experience. It is important to search everywhere, including places where you wouldn’t normally put them.

After searching, you’ll need to decide how to go about getting a replacement key. There are a few options for this, depending on your type of car key.

Key Fobs

Most modern cars come with key fobs, which enable drivers to lock and start their car without putting a physical key in the ignition. Many key fobs also have other useful features, like rolling down the windows.

Key fobs use short-range radio frequency signals to communicate with the car’s card reader. They have copper coils on both sides that energize and convert to electricity when they come close to the reader. This electricity powers a mini computer chip inside the fob, which transmits a number as its identity credential. The reader then reads the number and allows the driver to drive the vehicle.

Replacing a key fob can be expensive, with costs ranging from $50 to $400 for the replacement device and an additional $100 or more to get it programmed to work with the vehicle. Before you pay that amount, check to see whether your car’s warranty or roadside assistance coverage covers it. Also, see if you can find a bargain online by doing some comparison shopping.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys use a chip that transmits a unique digital identity to the vehicle’s system when the key is placed in the ignition. These chips are designed to prevent car theft by ensuring that only a valid key can turn on the engine.

These keys can be inserted into the key cylinder or integrated with a key fob. If your key has a chip, you will have to visit a locksmith or dealer that has specialized equipment in order to clone or program a new key.

Transponder keys are much harder to duplicate than basic non-transponder keys. That said, criminals have come up with ways to bypass these systems and start cars using a plain mechanical key. If security is important to you, a transponder key may be worth the investment. Otherwise, a basic non-transponder key is more cost effective. If you decide to go with a transponder key, make sure your trusted locksmith examines the cut of your existing key to give you the best copy possible.

Remote Keys

Rather than rummaging around in your pocket or purse for the key, these cars use a remote to lock and unlock. They also come with a button that can start your car, and sometimes can even turn off the panic alarm.

These keys are designed to protect your car from theft, and are more secure than traditional metal keys. The plastic head embedded with a chip allows your vehicle to recognize the key and verify that you own it. This prevents thieves from using a scanner to copy your key.

The only way to get a replacement for this type of key is through the dealership. They will require that you have proof of ownership on hand, and the process can be time consuming. An alternative is to call a locksmith – like Pop-A-Lock – and have them program your new key for you on site. This will save you time and money. They will charge a bit more for the service, but it will be less than getting it done at the dealer.