Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key

If you lose a car key, it's crucial to know the different costs involved. You can get a copy of a standard car key at any hardware shop, but a smart key may require you to visit a locksmith or dealer.

There are ways to save money if your device is not damaged and doesn't require to be reprogrammed.

1. Key Type

Car keys have a peculiar ability to disappear into unexpected places. They can be difficult to locate, whether they slip out of your purse when you're out shopping, end up stuck between the couch cushions or fall into a crack in the back seat. In the past, you could go to your local auto locksmith or hardware store and purchase a new replacement car key.

Today however, it can be quite costly in the case of a vehicle equipped with the latest technology, such as key fob technology or push-to-start. Key fobs and remote transmitters that are used with these systems are tiny electronic devices that are packed with electronics that can be quite costly to replace in the event that you lose them.

It is recommended to consider an insurance plan for your key fob that will cover up to $400 dollars per key stolen or lost. These plans typically cost less than total cost of Replacement remote Car keys, and come with unlimited key replacements for lost or stolen keys and additional benefits like towing insurance and roadside assistance, among others.

The type of key that you have will also affect the cost. Some keys are more expensive to replace. Basic metal keys without keys with a fob for instance, are relatively cheap, because they're mechanical and can be replaced by a professional mechanic or locksmith. If your key has transponder, you'll need specialized equipment to duplicate it. These devices are usually available through car dealerships or manufacturers and can be a major contributor to the total cost.

Laser cut keys can increase the cost of keys for replacement on automobiles, as they are more substantial. They are made from metal that is molded into the desired shape, and then cut with lasers that are precise to ensure the perfect fit.

2. Key Fob

In the past lost car keys was just a nuisance. You could buy an alternative key from a locksmith or a car dealership, and it was likely relatively cheap to do so. As cars have become more advanced in technology, so do their keys. This means that replacing a lost key could be more costly.

Key fobs became popular during the '90s as an extra feature to allow car owners to lock and unlock their car without the need for a physical key. These small plastic fobs have an electronic button that, replacement remote car keys when hit by the user sends a signal to the computer onboard to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some also include a button that allows you to activate the alarm system of the vehicle or open the trunk.

A traditional key without a fob is similar to those that were made prior to the '90s and it can be cut by an auto locksmith for a small charge. Some locksmiths will replace your lost fob while they wait.

Fobs that have a transponder or other computer chip could be more expensive to replace than traditional ones. They can cost up to $200 to reprogram and pair with an entirely new vehicle and are typically only available through the dealer who sold the original car.

Many businesses that deal with vehicles, such as auto repair shops or dealerships may end up with a lot of spare fobs. Some of these are available to the general public, while others require specialized equipment or technical knowledge to program. This is not something that the average consumer can do. This is why it's always best to keep a spare car key in your purse or pocket and also add GEICO's emergency car key replacement Roadside Service to your insurance policy to make it more convenient in the event that you require it.

3. Laser Cut Keys

Laser-cut keys have ridges that are deeper unlike mechanical keys. They are also more difficult for car thieves to duplicate.

They also have slits that are inserted into both sides of the key blades that allow them to be put into the door and ignition cylinder lock from either direction. They are the most commonly used kind of car keys that are in circulation in the present. They are more popular than key fobs, due to their more security and convenience.

If you're considering cutting a key using lasers for your car, it is essential to make sure the shop that is cutting keys has the appropriate equipment. Otherwise, you'll end up with a key that doesn't perform as expected. You must also be aware of the quality of the blade, because low-quality ones can damage the cutting mechanism of the key or even break within your ignition cylinder.

The locksmith will require your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a key using lasers. Once they have your VIN, they are able to run the information through a computer to retrieve the specifications of your car. Then, they'll use a CNC to cut the key to these specifications.

They are generally only available from dealerships. However, they are much less expensive than traditional key fobs and have the added bonus of being hard to duplicate.

The labor costs for a typical laser-cut, all-in-one key could range from $150 and $250. These keys need to be programmed by the dealer. They are nevertheless one of the most secure and practical keys for cars available today.

4. Switchblade Keys

Modern cars typically have key fobs that lock and unlock doors as well as start the engine. These newer keys are not mechanical keys that are easily duplicated by locksmiths and key cutters. Instead, they have transponder chip technology in the. This chip must be paired by an auto locksmith or dealer to the vehicle. These keys are more expensive. They range from $50-$100 for the basic model up to $200 for models that include push-to-start functionality.

Fobs that have what's known as a switchblade key, that folds in itself when not in use, typically cost more to replace. The keys are equipped with shanks that retract into the fob, which then can be released at the touch of a button whenever needed. They are much more secure than standard keys, making them a great choice for those who require an additional key for valet use. Changing these keys can run anywhere between $100 and $300 depending on the car and the type of key.

Unlike the old crank key, which was difficult, heavy and dangerous to handle keys that are electronic are lightweight and more convenient. They are also much harder to steal as they are cylindrical, which assists in preventing the use of key duplicate devices that are used by criminals to create illicit copies of your car's keys.

These electronic keys can open doors and start engines without the driver needing to take them out of their pockets. These keys are costly to replace and will require an appointment with a dealer, which could include a towing fee.

5. Transponder Keys

Transponder keys differ from mechanical keys due to the fact that they are equipped with an electronic chip that transmits a radio-frequency signal to vehicle when the key is put into the ignition. The computer system in the vehicle reads the signal to determine whether the serial number matches the one on the key. If it is, the vehicle will allow keys to unlock the doors and also start the engine. The purpose behind this is to prevent car theft by making it more difficult to connect a car's hot wire and then start the engine.

Theoretically it is possible that this technology works, but smart car thieves constantly find ways to defeat it. The chips inside these keys are also not as long-lasting as some like to believe. They are prone to being destroyed quickly, which can result in the key not working at all.

The cost of replacing transponder keys could be high. The key blank can cost as much as $50. Programming it is a cost additional. This procedure requires a special machine, which is only available at dealerships for cars.

It is recommended to employ locksmiths with the right equipment to program transponder keys. It is also recommended to have all the information for your vehicle, including the year and make, as well as the model. This will ensure that the right key blank is used and could save you money over time. Locksmiths can program a transponder-type key typically for $150, but for cars with push-to-start capabilities with key fobs and remote transmitters it could cost as high as $180. These keys require a special service that can only be done by a licensed locksmith.