Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key

It is important to be aware of the costs involved if you lose your car key. You can obtain a copy of a standard car key at 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 require changing its programming, there are ways to cut costs.

1. Type of Key

Car keys have the ability to disappear in most unlikely places. They can be hard to locate, whether they disappear from your pocket while shopping, get stuck between the couch cushions or fall into a crack in the back seat. In the past, this meant that you could simply go to your local auto locksmith or hardware store and pick up a replacement.

It's costly to replace the key fob or remote transmitter if you have an automobile with the latest technology. Key fobs and remote transmitters that work with these systems are miniature electronic devices, and are packed with circuitry that could make them quite expensive to replace in the event of losing them.

This is the reason you should think about purchasing a key fob replacement insurance plan, which covers up to $400 per lost or stolen key. These plans usually cost a fraction of the total replacement costs and include unlimited key replacements for lost car keys replacement cost or stolen keys and additional benefits like towing coverage and roadside assistance, among others.

The type of key you have will also affect the cost. Some keys are more expensive to replace. For example, basic metal keys that don't have a key fob are relatively inexpensive, because they're mechanical and can be easily replaced by an expert locksmith or mechanic. If your keys have transponders, you'll require specialized equipment to duplicate it. These machines are only available from car manufacturers or dealerships and can be a major factor in the 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, then cut using precision lasers for a perfect fit.

2. Key Fob

Not too long ago, losing your car keys was not a big problem. A locksmith or car dealer would sell you a new key, which was probably relatively inexpensive. As automobiles have become more advanced in technology and so have their keys. This means that replacing a lost key could be more expensive.

In the 1990s, key fobs were popularized as a way to unlock and lock a vehicle without using an actual car key. The small plastic fobs come with a button which, when it is pressed by the user sends a signal to the computer onboard to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some are equipped with 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 the same as those produced prior to 1990. Some locksmiths can even replace the fob that was lost while you wait.

Fobs with transponders or another computer chip may be more expensive to replace than traditional ones. They can cost as high as $200 to reprogram and connect to a new vehicle and are typically only available through the original car dealer.

Many businesses that work with automobiles, including auto repair shops, car dealerships, and salvage yards may end having a lot of spare fobs not tied to a particular vehicle. Some are available to consumers, while others require specialized equipment or technical skills to program. This is not something that the average consumer can do. It's best to always keep an extra key in your purse or pocket. You can also include GEICO emergency car key replacement Roadside Service as part of your policy to make things even simpler if you require it.

3. Laser Cut Keys

Laser-cut keys have deeper ridges unlike mechanical keys. They make them harder for car thieves to duplicate.

The blades of the key have cut-outs on both sides which allow the key 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 that are in circulation these days. They are more sought-after than traditional key fobs because they offer a higher level of security and convenience.

It is crucial that the company cutting keys has the proper equipment. You'll get keys that don't work properly in the event that you don't. It is also important to consider the quality of the knife because a knife that isn't of the highest quality could cause damage to your key cutting machine or even cause it to crack inside the ignition cylinder.

To cut a laser-cut key locksmiths will need to have your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have this information, they can run it through an electronic system to find the specifications for your specific car. Then, they will make use of the CNC to cut the key to these specifications.

They require specialized machinery to create, and are usually only available at dealerships. They are less expensive than traditional key fobs however, they also have the added benefit of being hard to duplicate.

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

4. Switchblade Keys

Many modern vehicles utilize key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, and also turn on the engine. Unlike older mechanical keys, which are mechanical and easy to duplicate by locksmiths or key cutters the newer keys for cars come with transponder chips that must be connected with the vehicle by a dealer or an auto locksmith. These keys can be more expensive. They range from $50 to $100 in the basic version up to $200 for models with push-to-start capabilities.

Fobs with a "switchblade" key, which folds in on itself when not in use, are usually more expensive to replace. These keys have shanks which retract into the fob, and then pop out when required. They are generally more secure than traditional keys, which makes them a great deterrent for thieves and a great alternative for those who need an extra car key to allow valet usage. The cost of changing these keys can range between $100 and $300 depending on the car and the type of key.

Unlike the old crank key that was heavy, complicated and dangerous to handle keys made of electronic technology are light and easy to handle. These car key button replacement keys also make it more difficult for thieves to steal them, as they are cylindrical. This prevents the use of key duplicate devices used by criminals to copy your car key.

These wholly electronic car keys communicate electronically to open the doors and start the engine. Some can even do so without having to be taken from the driver's pocket. The process of changing these kinds of keys for cars could be costly and generally require a visit to the dealership which may or not include a towing charge.

5. Transponder Keys

Transponder keys differ from mechanical keys due to the fact that they feature an electronic chip that transmits a radio-frequency signal to the vehicle when the key is put in 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 does, the vehicle will allow the key to open the door and begin the engine. This is done to prevent car thefts by making it more difficult to wire a car hot and to start the engine.

In theory, this technology is effective, however, clever car thieves are always trying to outwit this technology. The chips in these keys are also not as durable as many would think. They are prone to being destroyed quickly, which could result in the key not functioning at all.

The cost of replacing transponder keys could be high. The key blank can cost replacement car key (Read A great deal more) as much as $50. Programming it is an additional cost. This procedure requires a specific machine that is only available in car dealerships.

It is advisable to find locksmiths with the right equipment to program transponder keys. It is also a great idea to have your car's information prepared, such as the year model, make, and year of the vehicle. This will ensure that the right key blank is used and can save you money in the long run. 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 specialized programming service that can be performed only by a licensed locksmith.