Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key

When you lose a car key, it's important to be aware of the various costs that are involved. You can get a copy of a car key from any hardware shop, but a smart key might require you to visit a locksmith or dealer.

However, if the device isn't damaged and doesn't need to be reprogrammed there are ways to cut costs.

1. Type of Key

Car keys have the ability to disappear from the most unexpected places. They can be difficult to locate, no matter if they disappear from your pocket when you're shopping, get stuck between your couch cushions or fall into a crack in the back seat. In the past, you could simply visit your local auto locksmith or hardware store to get a replacement.

Nowadays it could be a costly proposition when you're driving a car with advanced technology, like key fob technology and push-to-start. These systems make use of remote transmitters and key fobs that are tiny electronic devices. They're also loaded with circuitry, which makes them costly to replace in the event of the loss.

This is the reason you should consider obtaining a key fob replacement car keys insurance plan that covers up to $400 for each lost or stolen key. These plans typically represent just a fraction of total mobile replacement car keys costs, and include unlimited replacements for stolen or lost keys as well as other benefits such as towing and roadside assistance.

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 fairly inexpensive, because they're mechanical and can be replaced by locksmiths or mechanics who are professionals. However, if your key is equipped with transponder chips, it will require specialized equipment to duplicate. These devices are available from car dealers or manufacturers and are a significant element in the price.

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

2. Key Fob

In the past the loss of your car keys was just a inconvenience. A car dealer or locksmith could offer keys to replace them which was probably affordable. As cars have become more technologically advanced as have their keys. This means that replacing a lost key can be more costly.

In the 1990s, key fobs became popular as a method to unlock and lock the vehicle without requiring a physical car key. The small plastic fobs have a button that, when pressed sends a signal to the computer of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some also have a button to activate the vehicle's alarm system or open the trunk.

A traditional key without a fob is similar to those made prior to the 1990s, and can be cut by an automotive locksmith for a fee. Some locksmiths can even repair lost fobs while you wait.

Fobs with a transponder or another chip may be more expensive to replace than standard ones. These can cost upwards of $200 to reprogram and connect to a new vehicle, and they are generally only available through the original car dealer.

Many companies that deal with cars such as auto repair shops and dealerships could have a large number of spare fobs. Some are available to the general public, while others require specialized equipment or technical skills to program. This isn't something that a typical consumer could do. It is recommended to keep an extra key in your wallet or purse. You can also include GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your insurance policy to make things easier in the event of need.

3. Keys Laser Cut Keys

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

The key blades have slits on both sides that allow keys to be inserted into the ignition cylinder as well as the door lock from either side. They are the most commonly used type of car keys in circulation today. They are more popular than key replacement for car fobs, because they offer greater security and convenience.

If you're considering cutting a key using lasers for your car, it is important to make sure that the shop that is cutting keys has the appropriate equipment. Otherwise, you'll end with a key that does not perform as expected. Be aware of the quality of the blade, since low-quality blades can damage the key cutting machine or even break inside your ignition cylinder.

To cut a key using lasers locksmiths will need to have your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have your VIN, they can run the information through a computer in order to determine the specifications of your vehicle. Then, they will make use of the CNC to cut the key according to these specifications.

They are usually only available through dealerships. They are less expensive than traditional key fobs but they also have the added benefit of being hard to duplicate.

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

4. Switchblade Keys

A lot of modern cars use key fobs to lock and unlock doors, and also turn on the engine. These aren't mechanical keys that are easily duplicated by locksmiths or key cutters. Instead, they have transponder chip technology in the. The chip must be connected by an auto locksmith or dealer to the vehicle. The fobs are typically more expensive, ranging between $50 and $100 for the basic model to $200 for models with push-to-start functions.

Fobs that feature a "switchblade" key that folds over itself when not in use they are typically more expensive to replace. They have shanks that retract into the fob and are released when needed. They are far more secure than standard keys, making them a great choice for those who need an additional key to use as a valet. The cost of car key replacement of changing these keys ranges between $100 and $300 depending on the car and kind of key.

They are lighter and simpler to use than the old crank keys, which were extremely heavy, complicated and hazardous to use. They are also much more difficult to steal as they are cylindrical, which assists in preventing the use of key duplicate devices used by criminals to create illicit copies of your car's key.

These electronic keys can open doors and start engines without the driver having to remove them from their pockets. These types of keys are expensive to replace and require an excursion to the dealer, which may include a towing charge.

5. Transponder Keys

In contrast to mechanical keys keys have a chip in them that transmits an audio frequency signal to the car whenever it is placed in the ignition. The signal is then analyzed by the vehicle's computer system to determine whether it matches 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 to stop car thefts by making it harder to hot-wire a car and to start the engine.

In theory, this is effective but clever car thieves are always looking for ways to defeat this technology. The chips inside these keys aren't as durable as many would think. They are able to be easily washed out, which could result in the key not working.

Transponder key replacement costs can be quite expensive. The cost of the key blank could be up to $50. Programming it is an additional expense. This requires a specific machine, which is only available at car dealerships.

It is therefore best to find a locksmith professional with the right equipment for programming transponder key. It is also a great idea to have your vehicle's information ready, including the year model, make, and year. This will ensure that the right key blank is used, which can save you money in the end. A locksmith can program a transponder key typically for $150, however for cars with push-to-start capabilities with remote transmitters and key fobs it could cost of replacement car key as high as $180. These keys require a specific service that is only done by a locksmith who is certified.