Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key

When you lose a car key, it's crucial to be aware of the various costs involved. You can copy a basic key at any hardware store, but a smart key may require you to go to a dealership or locksmith.

However, if the device is merely damaged and does not require changing its programming, there are ways to cut costs.

1. Type of Key

Car keys have an uncanny ability to disappear from the most surprising places. Whether they slip out of your purse while shopping, are tucked between the couch cushions or fall into the crack of the back seat, they're always a little bit hard to find. In the past, you could just pop into your local hardware store or auto locksmith and purchase a new replacement Car key.

These days, however, that can be quite costly if you're driving a vehicle equipped with the latest technology, such as key fob technology and push-to-start. These systems use 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 the loss.

It is recommended to consider a key fob insurance plan that covers up to $400 dollars per key stolen or lost. These plans usually cost less than the total cost of replacement, and come with unlimited key replacements in the event of theft or loss and additional benefits like towing coverage and roadside assistance, among other things.

The type of key you have will also affect the cost. Certain keys are more expensive to replace. Metal keys that don't have keys with a fob, for example, are relatively cheap, since they're mechanical, and can be replaced by locksmiths or mechanics who are professionals. If your key contains transponders, you'll require special equipment to duplicate it. These machines are usually only available through car key replacement service dealerships or manufacturers, and could be a major factor in the total cost.

Laser cut keys can also increase the price of keys for replacement on a car, as they are more substantial. They are made from metal that is molded into an exact shape, and then cut using lasers that are precise to ensure a precise fit.

2. Key Fob

Losing keys to your car used be a minor inconvenience. A car dealer or locksmith could sell you a replacement key which was probably affordable. As automobiles have become more advanced in technology and so have their keys. This means that replacing a lost or damaged key could be more expensive.

Key fobs were popular in the 90s as an added feature that allowed car key replacement online owners to lock and unlock their car without a physical key. These small plastic fobs have an electronic button that when it is pressed by the user sends a signal to the computer onboard to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some of them have buttons that trigger the security system of the vehicle or unlock the trunk.

A key that is not fitted with a fob is similar to the ones made prior to the 1990s, and it can be cut by an automotive locksmith for a small fee. Some locksmiths will replace your fob while they wait.

Fobs with transponders or another computer chip can be more costly to replace than traditional ones. They can cost up to $200 to reprogram and connect to an entirely new vehicle and are typically only available through the original dealer.

Many companies that deal with vehicles, such as auto repair shops, car dealerships and salvage yards could end up with quite a few spare fobs that aren't attached to a particular vehicle. Some of these can be sold to consumers, but some require special equipment and technical knowledge 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 purse or pocket and also add the GEICO Emergency Roadside Service to your policy to make it even more convenient should you need to use it.

3. Keys Laser Cut Keys

Laser-cut keys have more ridges in comparison to traditional mechanical keys. This makes them more difficult for car thieves.

They also have slits tooled into both sides of the blades that allow them to be put into the door and ignition cylinder lock from either direction. These are the most common kind of car keys that are available today. They are more popular than key fobs because they offer greater security and convenience.

If you're interested in having a laser-cut key made for your car, it's essential to make sure the company cutting them has the right equipment. If not, you'll end up with a key that does not perform as expected. Be aware of the quality of the blade, as low-quality blades can damage the cutting mechanism of the key or even break inside your ignition cylinder.

To cut a laser-cut keys, the locksmith will require your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have your VIN, they can run the information through a computer to retrieve the specifications of your car. Then, they will make use of a CNC to cut the key according to these specifications.

They require specialized machinery to make, and they are generally 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 labor costs for a typical laser-cut, all-in-one key will likely range between $150 to $250. These keys have to be programmed by the dealer. They are still one of the most secure and convenient car key battery replacement keys available today.

4. Switchblade Keys

A lot of modern cars utilize key fobs to lock and unlock doors, as well as start the engine. In contrast to older mechanical keys which work mechanically and are easily duplicated by locksmiths or key cutters These newer car keys contain transponder chips which must be linked with the vehicle by a dealer or an auto locksmith. These fobs can be more expensive. They vary between $50 and $100 for the basic model up to $200 for models that have push-to-start functionality.

Fobs that contain what's known as a switchblade key, that folds in itself when not in use, generally cost more to replace. They have shanks that retract into the fob, which then can be released at the touch of a button when needed. They are much more secure than standard keys, which makes them an ideal choice for those who require an extra key for valet use. The cost of changing these keys varies from $100 to $300 depending on the type of vehicle and the type.

They are lighter and simpler to use than the crank keys of the past which were extremely heavy, complicated and hazardous to use. These car keys are also much harder 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 keys.

These keys are electronic and can open doors and start engines without the driver having to remove them from their pockets. Making changes to these types of car keys could be costly and generally require a visit to the dealer which may or not include a towing charge.

5. Transponder Keys

Transponder keys differ from mechanical keys because they have an electronic chip that transmits a radio-frequency signal to vehicle when the key is put into the ignition. The computer system in the vehicle analyzes the signal to determine whether the serial number matches that of the key. If it does, the vehicle will let the key unlock 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.

Theoretically it's possible that this technology will work however, smart car thieves always find ways to beat it. Additionally, the chips in these keys aren't as long-lasting as many would like to believe. They can be easily wiped out, which could result in the key not functioning.

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

For this reason, it is best to hire a locksmith who has the right equipment to program transponder keys. It is also a great idea to have your vehicle's details ready, including the year model, make, and year. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used and could save you money over time. Locksmiths can program a transponder-type key typically for $150, but for push-to start cars equipped with remote transmitters and key fobs it could cost as high as $180. These keys require a special service that can only be performed by a certified Locksmith.