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 copy a basic key at any hardware store, while the smart key might require you to go to a locksmith or dealership.

However, if the fob is damaged but doesn't need reprogramming there are ways to reduce costs.

1. Type of Key

Car keys have the ability to disappear in most surprising places. They can be difficult to locate, whether they slip out of your purse when you're out shopping, are stuck between the sofa cushions, or fall into the crack in the back of your car. In the past, you could visit your local auto locksmith or hardware shop to purchase a new.

It can be expensive to replace a key fob or remote transmitter if you own an automobile that is equipped with advanced technology. Key fobs or remote transmitters used in these systems are small electronic devices that are packed with electronics that can make them quite expensive to replace if you lose them.

This is why you should consider getting the replacement of your key fob insurance plan that covers up to $400 per lost or stolen key. These plans typically cost less than total cost of replacement car key cost, and come with unlimited key replacements in the event of theft or loss and additional benefits like towing coverage and roadside assistance, among others.

The type of key that you own will also impact the cost. Some keys are more expensive to replace. Basic metal keys without 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 only available from car dealerships or manufacturers and are a significant factor Cost replacement car key in the cost.

Laser cut keys can increase the price of keys for replacement car key on a car, as they are thicker. They are made from metal that is then molded into a particular shape, and then are cut using precision lasers for a perfect fit.

2. Key Fob

The loss of keys to your car used to be a minor inconvenience. A car dealer or locksmith could sell you a replacement key that was likely to be affordable. As cars have technologically advanced and so do their keys. This means that replacing a lost or damaged key could be more costly.

Key fobs were popular in the 90s as an added feature that allowed car owners to lock and unlock their vehicle without the need for a physical key. These small plastic fobs have an electronic button that when hit by the user communicates to the computer in the onboard system to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some are equipped with buttons that activate the vehicle's security system or open the trunk.

A traditional key without a fob is similar to those made before the '90s, and it can be cut by an auto locksmith for a small charge. Some locksmiths will even replace a lost fob while you wait.

Fobs with a transponder or other computer chip may be more expensive to replace than standard ones. Reprogramming and pairing them can cost up to $200 and are only accessible through the original car dealer.

Many companies that deal with automobiles, including auto repair shops, car dealerships, and salvage yards, could end with a number of spare fobs that aren't attached to a particular vehicle. Some of these can be sold to consumers, but others require special equipment and technical expertise to program, which isn't something that's easily accessible to the average consumer. This is why it's best to keep an extra car key in your pocket or purse and also add GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service to your policy to make it even more convenient in the event that you require it.

3. Laser Cut Keys

Laser-cut keys have more ridges in comparison to traditional mechanical keys. These make them more difficult for thieves in cars to duplicate.

They also have slits tooled into the sides of the key blade that allow them to be put into the door and the ignition cylinder lock in either direction. These are the most popular car keys on the market today. They are more popular than key fobs because they provide greater security and convenience.

If you're considering having a laser-cut key made for your car, it's important to make sure that the shop that is cutting them has the right equipment. Otherwise, you'll end up with a key that does not work properly. Be aware of the quality of the blade, because poor quality blades can cause damage to 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 this information, they can run it through a computer system to get the specifications of your specific vehicle. Then, they'll make use of the CNC to cut the key in accordance with these specifications.

They are generally only available through dealers. They are more affordable than traditional key fobs however, they also have the added benefit of being hard to duplicate.

Labor costs for a typical laser-cut, all-in-one key could range from $150 to $250. This is because these types of keys need to be programmed at the dealership. However, they are one of the most secure and reliable car keys on the market today.

4. Switchblade Keys

Many modern cars have key fobs that lock and Cost Replacement Car Key unlock doors, as well as turn on the engine. In contrast to older mechanical keys that operate mechanically and are easy to duplicate by locksmiths or key cutters These newer car keys come with transponder chips which must be linked with the vehicle by a dealer or an auto locksmith. These keys are typically more expensive, and range between $50 and $100 for the basic model, and up to $200 for models that have push-to-start capabilities.

Fobs that feature the "switchblade" key that folds up on itself when not being used, are usually more expensive to replace. These keys come with shanks that retract into the fob and pop out when needed. They are usually much more secure than traditional keys, making them a great deterrent to thieves and a great alternative for those who need an extra car key to allow valet use. The cost of changing these keys varies between $100-$300 depending on the car and the type.

These electronic keys are lighter and easier to use than the old crank keys which were difficult, heavy and dangerous to handle. The car keys also make it difficult for thieves to steal them, as they are cylindrical. This stops the use of key duplicate machines that criminals use to copy your car key.

Electronic keys can open doors and start engines without the driver needing to take them out of their pockets. These types of keys are costly to replace and require an excursion to the dealer, which may include a towing fee.

5. Transponder Keys

In contrast to mechanical keys, transponder keys are equipped with a chip inside them that relays the radio frequency signal to the car when it is placed in the ignition. The signal is then analyzed by the car's computer system to determine whether it is in line with the serial number of the key. If it does, the car will allow the key to unlock the door and begin the engine. The purpose behind this is to prevent car theft by making it more difficult to wire a car and then start the engine.

In theory, this is effective but the most sophisticated car thieves are always finding ways to beat this technology. Furthermore, the chips inside these types of keys aren't as long-lasting as many would like to believe. They can be destroyed quickly, which could result in the key not functioning at all.

The cost Replacement car key of replacing transponder keys could be expensive. The cost of the key blank could be as much as $50. Programming it is an additional cost. This requires a special machine that is only available in dealerships for cars.

It is recommended to find a locksmith professional who has the tools to program transponder keys. It is also recommended to keep all of the information for your vehicle including the year and make, as well as the model. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used and could save you money over time. Locksmiths can usually program an entirely new transponder-based key for around $150, however it could cost up to $180 for cars that are equipped with remote transmitters or key fobs. These keys require a specific programming service that can be done only by a licensed locksmith.