Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key

When you lose a car key, you need to know the different costs that are involved. You can copy a standard key from any hardware store, but the smart key might require you to go to an auto dealer or locksmith.

However, if the fob is merely damaged and does not require reprogramming there are ways to reduce costs.

1. Type of Key

Car keys have an uncanny ability to disappear in most unexpected places. They can be hard to locate, no matter if they slip out of your pocket when you're shopping, are stuck between the couch cushions, or fall into the crack in the back seat. In the past, this meant that you could just pop into your local hardware store or auto locksmith and purchase a new replacement.

Nowadays however, it could be a costly proposition in the case of a vehicle that is equipped with modern technology, such as key fob technology and push-to-start. These systems make use of remote transmitters and key fobs which are tiny electronic devices. They're also stuffed with circuitry, which makes them costly to replace in the event of the loss.

This is why you should consider getting an insurance replacement for your key fob plan that covers up to $400 for each lost or stolen key. These plans usually cost less than total replacement costs and include unlimited lost or stolen key replacements along with additional benefits like towing coverage and roadside assistance, to name a few.

The kind of key you're using can also affect the price as some keys are more expensive to replace than other. Simple metal keys that do not have a key fob, for example are relatively inexpensive because they're mechanical and can be replaced by an experienced locksmith or mechanic. If your key contains transponder, you'll need an equipment that is specifically designed to duplicate it. These devices are typically accessible through dealerships or car manufacturers and can be a major contributor to the total cost.

Laser cut keys are yet another factor that can increase the cost of a replacement Car keys car key, as these are typically more substantial than regular car keys. They are made of metal that is molded into an exact shape, then cut using lasers that are precisely calibrated to ensure a perfect fit.

2. Key Fob

The loss of your car keys used to be a minor issue. A car dealer or locksmith would sell you a replacement key that was likely to be inexpensive. However, as cars have evolved in terms of technology, so too have their keys, and this means that replacing a lost car key replacement one can be more expensive than it used to be.

In the 1990s, key fobs became popular as a method to unlock and lock a vehicle without using the physical keys of a car. These small plastic fobs have an electronic button that, when hit by the user signals the onboard computer to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some of them have buttons that trigger the vehicle's security system or open the trunk.

A key that is not fitted with a fob is similar to those made before the '90s, and can be cut by an auto locksmith for a small fee. Some locksmiths will be able to replace the fob that was lost while they wait.

Fobs with a transponder or another chip can be more costly to replace than standard ones. They can cost as high as $200 to reprogram and pair with an entirely new vehicle and are typically only available through the original dealer.

Many businesses who work with cars such as auto repair shops and dealerships may have a large number of spare fobs. Some of them can be sold to consumers, but certain require specialized equipment and technical knowledge to program, which isn't something that's readily available to the average consumer. It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your wallet or purse. You can also add GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your insurance policy to make it easier if you need it.

3. Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys

Unlike traditional mechanical keys, laser-cut keys have deeper grooves and ridges. These make them more difficult for mobile car key replacement thieves to duplicate.

The key blades have cut-outs on both sides that permit keys to be inserted into the ignition cylinder as well as the door lock from either side. These are the most popular car keys on the market today. They are more popular than key fobs because they provide greater security and ease of use.

It is important that the company cutting keys has the right equipment. If not, you'll end up with a key that does not work properly. It is also important to consider the quality of the knife as a low-quality one can harm your key cutting device or cause it to break inside the ignition cylinder.

The locksmith will need your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a key using lasers. Once they have your VIN, they are able to run the data through a computer to retrieve the specifications of your car. Then, they will employ the CNC to cut the key according to these specifications.

They are generally only available through dealerships. They are more affordable than traditional key fobs however, they also have the added benefit of being difficult to duplicate.

The cost of labor for a typical laser-cut, all-in-one key will likely range between $150 to $250. This is because these kinds of keys need to be programmed at the dealership. They are nevertheless one of the most secure and convenient keys for cars on the market today.

4. Switchblade Keys

Modern cars typically have key fobs that lock and unlock doors and start the engine. In contrast to older mechanical keys which work mechanically and are easily duplicated by key cutters or locksmiths, these newer car keys have transponder chips built in that need to be paired with the vehicle by the dealer or an auto locksmith. These fobs can be more expensive. They vary from $50 to $100 in the basic model, and up to $200 for models that have push-to-start capabilities.

Fobs with what's referred to as a switchblade, that folds in itself when not in use. generally cost more to replace. These keys have shanks which retract into the fob, and then release when required. They are typically more secure than standard keys, which makes them a great deterrent for thieves. They are also a good alternative for those who require an extra car key for valet use. The cost of a replacement car key of changing these keys can range between $100 and $300, depending on the vehicle and the type.

They are lighter and simpler to use than the old crank keys which were difficult, heavy and dangerous to handle. These car keys are also much more difficult to steal since they are cylindrical, a feature that helps to prevent the use of key-duplicate devices used by criminals to make illegal copies of your car's key.

These keys that are completely electronic communicate electronically to open the doors and begin the engine. Some are even able to do so without being removed from the pocket of the driver. These keys are expensive to replace and require a trip to the dealer, which might include a towing fee.

5. Transponder Keys

Unlike mechanical keys, transponder keys have a chip in them that transmits a radio frequency signal to the car when it is put into the ignition. The signal is then read by the car's computer system to determine whether it is in line with the serial number of the key. If it does, the vehicle will allow the key to open the door and start the engine. This is done to prevent car thefts by making it more difficult to hot-wire a car keys replacements and also to start the engine.

In theory, this technology is effective, however, the most sophisticated car thieves are always trying to outwit this technology. The chips in these keys aren't as durable as people think. They can be destroyed quickly, which can cause the key to stop working at all.

The cost of replacing transponder keys could be costly. The key blank itself could cost as much as $50, and then there's the added expense of programming it. This process involves using a specific machine, which is only available at car dealerships.

This is why it is best to hire a locksmith who has the proper equipment to program transponder keys. It is also recommended to have all of your vehicle's information ready including the year and make, as well as the model. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used and could save you money in the long run. Locksmiths can usually program a new transponder key for about $150, but it may cost up to $180 for push-to-start cars equipped with remote transmitters or key fobs. These keys require a specialized programming service that can be performed only by a licensed locksmith.