Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key

It is crucial to understand the cost involved when you lose your car key. You can copy a basic key at any hardware store, but a smart key may require you to visit a dealership or locksmith.

But, if the fob is damaged but doesn't require reprogramming there are ways to cut costs.

1. Type of Key

Car keys have an uncanny ability to disappear in most unlikely places. If they disappear from your purse during shopping, or get stuck between the sofa cushions, or fall through the crack in your back seat, they're always a little difficult to locate. In the past, this meant that you could go to your local auto locksmith or hardware store and pick up a replacement.

It's expensive to replace a key fob or remote transmitter if you drive a vehicle that has advanced technology. These systems rely on remote transmitters and key fobs, which are tiny electronic devices. They're also packed with circuitry, which makes them costly to replace in the event of a loss.

This is why you should consider getting an insurance replacement for your key fob plan, which will cover up to $400 for each lost or stolen key. These plans typically cover a fraction of total Cheapest Replacement Car Keys costs, and include unlimited replacements for stolen or lost keys, as well as additional benefits like towing and roadside assistance.

The type of key that you own will also impact the cost. Some keys are more expensive to replace. Basic metal keys without key fobs for instance are fairly inexpensive, because they're mechanical and can be replaced by a professional mechanic or locksmith. If your key contains a transponder, you'll need an equipment that is specifically designed to duplicate it. These machines are usually only available through car dealerships or manufacturers and can be a major driver of the total cost.

Laser cut keys are yet another aspect that can raise the cost of a replacement car key, since they are generally thicker than regular car keys. They are made of metal that is then molded into an exact shape, and then are cut with lasers that are precise to ensure the perfect fit.

2. Key Fob

The loss of keys to your car used be a minor inconvenience. A locksmith or car dealer could sell you a replacement car key fob key that was likely to be cheap. However since automobiles have become more technologically advanced and so have keys, which means replacing a lost key can be more expensive than it used to be.

Key fobs were popular in the 1990s as an additional feature that allowed car owners to lock and unlock their vehicle without the need for a physical key. The tiny plastic fobs include the button that, when pressed, signals to the onboard computer of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some also have a button to activate the alarm system in the vehicle or open the trunk.

A locksmith for cars can cut traditional keys without a remote at the cost of a small fee. It's exactly the same as keys that were made prior to 1990. Some locksmiths will replace the fob that was lost while they are waiting.

Fobs that have a transponder or other computer chip may be more expensive to replace than standard ones. Reprogramming and pairing these can cost upwards of $200 and are only available through the original dealer for cars.

Many businesses that deal with vehicles, such as auto repair shops and dealerships might end up with a lot of spare fobs. Some of them are accessible to the public, whereas others require specialized equipment or technical skills to program. This is not something that a typical consumer could do. It is recommended to keep an extra key in your purse or pocket. You can also include GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your policy to make it easier in the event of need.

3. Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys

In contrast to traditional mechanical keys laser-cut keys have more grooves and ridges. They make them harder for car thieves to duplicate.

They also have slits inserted into both sides of the blade, which allows them to be put into the door and the ignition cylinder lock from either direction. They are the most commonly used kind of car keys that are in circulation today. They are more sought-after than traditional keys because they provide a higher level of security and comfort.

If you're thinking of getting a laser-cut key for your car, it is essential to make sure the shop that is cutting keys has the proper equipment. You'll end with a key which doesn't work properly when you don't. You must also think about the quality of the knife, as a low-quality one can damage your key cutting machine or even cause it to break within the ignition cylinder.

To cut a laser-cut key, the locksmith will need to have your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have this information, they can run it through a computer system to get the specifications specific to your car. They will then employ a CNC to cut the key in accordance with these specifications.

They are usually only available through dealers. However, they are much less expensive than traditional key fobs, and have the added bonus of being difficult to duplicate.

For an all-in-one key that is laser-cut you'll have to pay between $150 and $250 for labor costs. This is due to the fact that these types of key need to be programmed at the dealership. But, they are one of the most secure and convenient keys for cars available today.

4. Switchblade Keys

Many modern vehicles utilize key fobs to lock and unlock doors, as well as turn on the engine. These newer keys are not mechanical keys that are easily duplicated by locksmiths and key cutters. Instead, they feature transponder chip technology integrated into. The chip must be paired by an auto locksmith or dealer to the vehicle. These keys are more expensive. They range from $50 to $100 for the basic model up to $200 for models that have push-to-start capabilities.

Fobs that contain what's known as a switchblade key that folds in itself when not in use, typically cost more to replace. These keys come with shanks that retract into the fob and release when required. They are far more secure than standard keys, which makes them an ideal choice for those who need an extra key to use as a valet. The cost of changing these keys ranges between $100 and $300 depending on the car and the kind of key.

The electronic keys are lighter and simpler to use than the old crank keys that were heavy, complicated and hazardous to use. These car keys also make it more difficult for thieves to steal them because they are cylindrical. This stops the use of key-duplicate machines used by criminals to copy your car keys.

These wholly electronic car keys communicate electronically to open doors and begin the engine. Some can even do so without being removed from the pocket of the driver. These keys are expensive to replace and will require an excursion to the dealer, which could include a towing charge.

5. Transponder Keys

Unlike mechanical keys, transponder keys are equipped with a chip inside them that transmits an audio 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 matches the serial number of the key. If it does, the car will let the key unlock the door and start the engine. The purpose behind this is to stop car theft by making it harder to wire a car and start the engine.

Theoretically it's possible that this technology will work However, car thieves who are smart always find ways to beat it. The chips in these keys are also not as durable as people think. They are able to be easily washed out, which can result in the key not working.

The cost of car key replacement of replacing a transponder key can be very expensive. The key blank can cost as much as $50. Programming it is an additional cost. This process involves using a special machine, which is only available at car dealerships.

For this reason, it is advisable to find locksmiths who have the appropriate equipment for programming transponder keys. It is also a good idea to have all the information for your vehicle including the year, make and model. This will ensure that the right key blank is used and can save you money in the long run. A locksmith can typically program the new transponder key for about $150, however it could cost as much as $180 for push-to-start cars equipped with remote transmitters or key fobs. These keys require a special service that can only be done by a locksmith who is certified.