Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key

It is important to be aware of the costs involved if you lose your car keys. You can duplicate a basic key from any hardware store, whereas a smart key may require you to go to an auto dealer or locksmith.

There are ways to save money on your device if it is only damaged and does not need reprogramming.

1. Key Type

Car keys have the ability to disappear in the most unexpected places. They can be hard to locate, whether they disappear from your pocket when you're shopping, get stuck between the couch cushions or fall into the crack in the back of your car. In the past, you could simply go to your local hardware or Key auto locksmith shop to purchase a new.

Today however, it can be an expensive proposition in the case of a vehicle that is equipped with modern technology, such as key fob technology and push-to-start. Key fobs and remote transmitters that are used with these systems are small electronic devices, and are packed with electronics that can make them quite expensive to replace in the event of losing them.

This is why you should consider obtaining an insurance replacement for your key fob plan, which covers up to $400 for each lost or stolen key. These plans are usually only a small fraction of the total replacement costs, and offer unlimited replacements for stolen or lost keys, in addition to other benefits like towing or roadside assistance.

The type of key you have also impacts the cost as some keys are more expensive to replace than others. For instance, simple metal keys with no key fob are relatively inexpensive, because they're mechanical and can be replaced by a professional locksmith or mechanic. However, if the key is equipped with transponder chips, it will require special equipment to duplicate. These devices are typically available through car dealerships or manufacturers, and could be a major driver of the total cost.

Laser cut keys can also increase the price of a replacement keys for car key for cars, since they are more substantial. They are fashioned from metal that's molded into a specific shape and are then cut using lasers that are precise to ensure a precise fit.

2. Key Fob

The loss of keys to your car used be a minor issue. A car dealer or locksmith would sell keys to replace them which was probably affordable. However as cars have become more technologically advanced, so too have their keys, and this means that replacing a lost one can be a lot more expensive than it used to be.

Key fobs became popular during the '90s as an extra feature that allowed car owners to lock and unlock their vehicles without a physical key. These small plastic fobs contain the button that, when pressed, communicates to the computer onboard of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some have buttons that activate the vehicle's security system or unlock the trunk.

An automotive locksmith can cut traditional keys without a remote for the cost of a small fee. This is exactly the same as keys made before 1990. Some locksmiths will be able to replace your lost fob while they wait.

Fobs that contain a transponder or another chip can be more costly to replace than traditional ones. These can cost upwards of $200 to reprogram and connect to the new car and are typically only available through the dealer who sold the original car.

Many businesses that deal with cars, such as auto repair shops and cheapest car key replacement dealerships could end up with lots of spare fobs. Some of them are accessible to consumers, while others require special equipment or technical skills to program. This is not something that the average person can do. This is why it's best to keep a spare car key in your pocket or purse, and then add the GEICO Emergency Roadside Service to your insurance policy to make it more convenient should you require it.

3. Keys Laser Cut Keys

Contrary to traditional mechanical keys laser-cut keys feature deeper ridges and grooves. They are also more difficult for thieves in cars to duplicate.

Key blades feature two slits that permit keys to be inserted into the ignition cylinder and door lock from either side. They are among the most sought-after car keys on the market today. They are more popular than traditional key fobs due to the fact that they provide a higher level of security and convenience.

If you're thinking of having a laser-cut key made for your car, it is important to make sure that the place that cuts them has the right equipment. You'll end up with keys that don't function properly in the event that you don't. You must also think about the quality of the knife, since a poor quality knife could harm your key cutting device or cause it to break within the ignition cylinder.

To cut a laser-cut keys locksmiths will require your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have this information, they can run it through a computer system to retrieve the specifications for your specific car. Then, they'll make use of the CNC to cut the key in accordance with these specifications.

They require specialized machinery to create, and they are generally only available through dealerships. However, they are much less costly than traditional key fobs, and also have the benefit of being difficult to duplicate.

For a typical all-in-one laser cut key, you'll likely need to pay between $150 and $250 in labor costs. This is due to the fact that these types of keys must be programmed at the dealership. However, they are one of the most secure and practical car keys on the market today.

4. Switchblade Keys

Modern cars often use key fobs that can lock and unlock doors as well as start the engine. Contrary to the older mechanical keys which are mechanical and easily duplicated by locksmiths or key cutters These newer car keys come with transponder chips that must be connected with the vehicle by a dealer or auto locksmith. These keys are typically more expensive, and range from $50 to $100 for the basic version to $200 for models that have push-to-start functions.

Fobs that have what's known as a switchblade key, which folds into itself when not in use. generally cost more to replace. These keys have shanks which retract into the fob and pop out when required. They are more secure than standard keys, which makes them a great alternative for those who require an additional key for valet use. The cost of changing these keys can range from $100 to $300 depending on the car and the type.

In contrast to the crank key of the past, which was complex, heavy and dangerous to handle, these electronic keys are lightweight and more convenient. They are also much more difficult to steal because they are cylindrical, which assists in preventing the use of key-duplicate devices used by criminals to create illegal copies of your car's key.

These keys that are completely electronic communicate electronically to open doors and start the engine. Some keys are even able to do so without having to be taken from the pocket of the driver. These types of keys are expensive to replace and require an appointment with a dealer, which could include a towing cost.

5. Transponder Keys

In contrast to mechanical keys, transponder keys contain a chip within them that transmits the radio frequency signal to the car when it is inserted into the ignition. The computer system in the vehicle analyzes the signal to determine whether the serial number is identical to that of the key. If it does, the vehicle will allow the key to unlock the door and begin the engine. The idea behind this is to stop car theft by making it more difficult to wire a car and start the engine.

Theoretically it is possible that this technology works, but smart car thieves always find ways to beat it. The chips inside these keys are also not as durable as many would think. They can be easily wiped out, resulting in the key not functioning.

The cost of replacing transponder keys could be high. The key blank itself can cost as much as $50 and then you have the added expense of having it programmed. This process involves using an exclusive machine that is only available at car dealerships.

It is therefore recommended to find a locksmith professional who has the equipment for programming transponder key. It is also an excellent idea to have all of the information for your vehicle, including the year and make, as well as the model. This will help ensure that the right key blank is used, which will save you money in the end. A locksmith can typically program an entirely new transponder-based key for about $150, but it may cost upwards of $180 for cars that are equipped with remote transmitters or key fobs. These keys require a specialized service that is only done by a locksmith who is certified.