Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key

It is crucial to understand the costs involved if you lose your car keys. You can obtain a copy of a basic car key from any hardware store, however the smart key could require you to go to a locksmith or dealer.

There are ways to save money if your fob is only damaged and does not need reprogramming.

1. Type of Key

Car keys have the ability to disappear in the most unlikely places. They can be difficult to locate, whether they disappear from your pocket while shopping, get stuck between the couch cushions or fall into a crack in the back of your car. In the past, you could simply go to your local hardware or auto locksmith shop to purchase a new.

It can be expensive to replace a key fob or a remote car key replacement transmitter if you drive an automobile that is equipped with advanced technology. These systems rely on remote transmitters and key fobs that are tiny electronic devices. They're also stuffed with circuitry, making them expensive to replace in the event of an eventual loss.

This is the reason you should consider getting the replacement keys for car of your key fob insurance plan, which will cover up to $400 for each lost key replacement car or stolen key. These plans typically represent only a small fraction of the total replacement costs and include unlimited replacements for stolen or lost keys, as well as additional benefits like towing and roadside assistance.

The type of key that you have will also affect the cost. Some keys are more expensive to replace. Basic metal keys without a key fob, for example are relatively inexpensive since they're mechanical, and can be replaced by locksmiths or mechanics who are professionals. If your key is equipped with transponder chips, it will require special equipment to copy. These machines are only available from car manufacturers or dealerships and could be a major factor in the cost of car key replacement.

Laser cut keys are a different factor that can increase the cost replacement car key of a replacement car key, as these are usually heavier than regular keys. They are fashioned from metal that's molded into the desired shape and then cut with lasers to ensure a precise fit.

2. Key Fob

In the past lost car keys was a problem. You could get an alternative key from a locksmith shop or a car dealership and it was inexpensive to purchase one. As cars have become more advanced in technology as do their keys. This means that replacing a lost key could be more expensive.

Key fobs were popular in the 1990s as an additional feature to allow car owners to lock and unlock their car without the need for a physical key. The small plastic fobs have the button that, when pressed, signals to the onboard computer of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. 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 akin to those made before the '90s, and can be cut by an automotive locksmith for a fee. Some locksmiths will even replace lost fobs while you wait.

Fobs with transponders or another computer chip can be more costly to replace than standard ones. These can cost upwards of $200 to reprogram and connect to an entirely new vehicle, and they are generally only available through the original dealer.

Many companies that deal with automobiles, including auto repair shops, car dealerships and salvage yards, could end having a lot of spare fobs not tied to a specific vehicle. Some are available to the general public, while others require special equipment or technical knowledge to program. This is not something that the average person can do. It is recommended to keep a spare key in your wallet or purse. You can also include GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your insurance policy to make it easier in the event of need.

3. Laser Cut Keys Keys

Laser-cut keys have ridges that are deeper in comparison to traditional mechanical keys. This makes them less prone to car thieves.

The blades of the key have two slits which allow the key to be put in the ignition cylinder and door lock from either side. They are the most commonly used kind of car keys in circulation today. They are more popular than key fobs because they offer greater security and ease of use.

If you're considering having a laser-cut key made for your car, it is crucial to ensure that the shop that is cutting keys has the proper equipment. You'll get a key which doesn't perform as expected if you don't. It is also important to consider the quality of the knife since a poor quality knife could damage your key cutting machine or cause it to break inside the ignition cylinder.

The locksmith will need your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a key using lasers. Once they have this information, they will run it through a computer system to retrieve the specifications of your specific vehicle. Then, they will use the CNC to cut the key to these specifications.

They are usually only available through dealers. However, they are less costly than traditional key fobs and also have the benefit of being difficult to duplicate.

For a typical all-in-one laser-cut key you'll probably have to pay between $150 and $250 for labor costs. These keys need to be programmed by the dealer. They remain among the most convenient and secure keys for cars available today.

4. Switchblade Keys

Many modern cars have key fobs that lock and unlock doors, and also start the engine. Unlike older mechanical keys, which work mechanically and are easily duplicated by key cutters or locksmiths, these newer car keys have transponder chips built in that must be connected with the vehicle by a dealer or auto locksmith. These keys are typically more expensive, ranging between $50-$100 for the basic model to $200 for models that have push-to-start functions.

Fobs that feature the "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, which then pops out at the push of a button whenever needed. They are much more secure than standard keys, making them a great alternative for those who require an extra key for valet use. Changing these keys can run between $100 and $300 depending on the car and the kind of key.

These electronic keys are lighter and easier to use than the crank keys of the past that were difficult, heavy and dangerous to handle. They also make it harder for thieves to steal them since they are cylinder-shaped. This blocks the use of key-duplicate machines used by criminals to copy your car key.

These wholly electronic car keys communicate electronically to open the doors and start the engine - some are even able to do so without being removed from the pocket of the driver. These types of keys are costly to replace and will require an excursion to the dealer, which may include a towing charge.

5. Transponder Keys

In contrast to mechanical keys keys contain a chip within them that transmits the radio 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 is in line with the serial number of the key. If it does, the vehicle will let the key unlock the door and start the engine. This is done to prevent car thefts by making it harder to connect a car's hot wire and to start the engine.

Theoretically, this technology is effective however, smart car thieves constantly find ways to defeat it. The chips inside these keys aren't as durable as people like to think. They can get wiped out quickly, which could lead to the key not functioning at all.

Transponder key replacement costs can be a significant expense. The cost of the key blank could be up to $50. Programming it is a cost additional. This procedure requires a specific machine that's only found at dealerships for cars.

It is recommended to employ a professional locksmith who has the equipment to program transponder keys. It is also a great idea to have your vehicle's details ready, including the year, make, and model. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used, and will save you money in the long run. Locksmiths can usually program the new transponder key for around $150, but it can cost as much as $180 for cars that are equipped with key fobs or remote transmitters. These keys require a specialized service that is only done by a locksmith who is certified.