Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key

If you lose a car key, it's crucial to be aware of the various costs involved. You can copy a standard key from any hardware store, whereas the smart key might require you to visit a locksmith or dealership.

There are ways to save money on your device if it is only damaged and doesn't require reprogramming.

1. Type of Key

Car keys have an uncanny ability to disappear from the most unexpected places. Whether they slip out of your purse during shopping, or get stuck between the couch cushions, or fall through the crack in the back seat, they're always a little difficult to locate. In the past, you could go to your local hardware or auto locksmith store to get a replacement.

These days, however, that could be a costly proposition in the case of a vehicle that is equipped with modern technology, such as key fob technology or push-to-start. These systems use remote transmitters and key fobs, which are tiny electronic devices. They're also packed with circuitry, making them costly to replace in the event of an eventual loss.

This is why you should consider obtaining an insurance replacement for your key fob plan that covers up to $400 for each lost or stolen key. These plans usually cost a fraction of the total cost of replacement, and come with unlimited key replacements in the event of theft or loss along with additional benefits like towing insurance and roadside assistance, among others.

The type of key you're using also impacts the cost, with some types being more expensive to replace than others. Simple metal keys that do not have key fobs for instance are relatively inexpensive since they're mechanical, and can be replaced by an experienced locksmith or mechanic. If your key has a transponder, you'll need an equipment that is specifically designed to duplicate it. These machines are usually only available at dealerships or car manufacturers and can be a major driver of the total cost.

Laser cut keys may increase the price of a replacement key for a car, as they are thicker. They are made from metal that is then molded to an exact shape, and then cut using lasers that are precise to ensure a precise fit.

2. Key Fob

In the past, losing your car keys was just a problem. You could purchase keys replacements from a locksmith or car dealership and it was inexpensive to purchase one. As cars have become more technologically advanced as have their keys. This means that replacing a lost or damaged key could be more costly.

Key fobs became popular during the 90s as an added feature to allow car owners to lock and unlock their vehicles without the need for a physical key. The tiny plastic fobs include a button that, when pressed, sends a signal to the computer of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some are equipped with buttons that activate the vehicle's security system or unlock the trunk.

A traditional key without a fob is akin to those that were made prior to the '90s and it can be cut by an automotive locksmith for a small fee. Some locksmiths will repair the fob that was lost while they are waiting.

It can be more expensive to replace a fob that contains a computer chip or transponder than if it were an old-fashioned one. These can cost upwards of $200 to reprogram and connect to a new vehicle, and they are generally only available through the dealer who sold the original car.

Many companies that deal with automobiles, including auto repair shops, car dealerships and salvage yards could end having a lot of spare fobs that aren't tied to a particular vehicle. Some of them could be sold to consumers, but some require special equipment and technical knowledge to program, which isn't something that's easily accessible to the typical consumer. It's a good idea to keep an extra key in your purse or pocket. You can also add GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your policy to make things even simpler if you require it.

3. Laser Cut Keys Keys

Unlike traditional mechanical keys, laser-cut keys feature deeper grooves and cost replacement car key ridges. These make them more difficult for car thieves to duplicate.

The blades of the key have slits on both sides that permit keys to be inserted into the ignition cylinder and door lock from either side. These are the most well-known car keys on the market today. They are more sought-after than traditional key fobs due to the fact that they offer a higher level of security and ease of use.

It is important that the shop cutting the keys is equipped with the proper equipment. If not, you'll end up with a key that doesn't work properly. It is also important to consider the quality of the knife, because a knife that isn't of the highest quality could harm your key cutting device or even cause it to break inside the ignition cylinder.

To cut a laser-cut keys, 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 retrieve the specifications specific to your vehicle. They can then use a CNC machine to cut the key based on these specifications.

These keys require special machinery to make, and they are usually only available at dealerships. They are cheaper than traditional key fobs, however, they also have the added benefit of being hard to duplicate.

For an all-in-one key that is laser-cut, you'll likely be required to shell out between $150 and $250 for labor costs. These keys need to be programmed by the dealer. They are still one of the most secure and cost Replacement car key convenient keys for cars available today.

4. Switchblade Keys

Modern cars usually have key fobs that lock and unlock doors and start the engine. In contrast to older mechanical keys which work mechanically and are easily duplicated by key cutters or locksmiths, these newer car keys contain transponder chips that must be connected with the vehicle by a dealer or auto locksmith. These keys can be more expensive. They range from $50 to $100 in the basic version up to $200 for models that include push-to-start capabilities.

Fobs that feature a "switchblade" key that folds up on itself when not being used, are usually more expensive to replace. The keys are equipped with shanks that retract into the fob, which is released at the push of a button when needed. They are usually much safer than traditional keys, making them a powerful deterrent for thieves and are a good alternative for those who need an extra car key for valet usage. The Cost Replacement Car Key of changing these keys can range between $100 and $300, depending on the vehicle and the type of key.

These electronic keys are lighter and more user-friendly than the old crank keys that were extremely heavy, complicated and hazardous to use. They are also much more difficult to steal since they are cylindrical, which can prevent the use of key-duplicate devices used by criminals to make illegal copies of your car's key.

These keys that are completely electronic communicate electronically to open the doors and begin the engine - some can even do this without having to be removed from the driver's pocket. Changing these types of keys for cars can be expensive and will typically require a trip to the dealer which may or not include a towing fee.

5. Transponder Keys

Transponder keys differ from mechanical keys because they have a chip that transmits an audio-frequency signal to the vehicle when the key is placed into the ignition. The computer system in the vehicle scans the signal to determine whether the serial number matches that of the key. If it does, the vehicle will allow the key to open the door and start the engine. This is done to avoid car thefts by making it difficult to connect a car's hot wire and to start the engine.

In theory, this is effective, however, the most sophisticated car thieves are always trying to outwit this technology. In addition, the chips that are in these types of keys are not as durable as some would like to believe. They can be destroyed quickly, which can result in the key not functioning at all.

The cost of replacing transponder keys can be costly. The key blank can cost up to $50. Programming it is an additional expense. This process involves using an exclusive machine that is only available at car dealerships.

It is recommended to hire a professional locksmith who has the necessary equipment to program transponder keys. It is also a great idea to have your car's information ready, including the year model, make, and year. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used, which will save you money in the end. Locksmiths can usually program the new transponder key for around $150, however it could cost of replacement car key up to $180 for push-to-start cars equipped with remote transmitters or key fobs. These keys require a specialized service that is only performed by a certified Locksmith.