Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key

If you lose a car key, you need to know the different costs involved. You can obtain a copy of a basic car key at any hardware shop, but the smart key could require you to go to a locksmith or dealer.

There are ways to save money on your device if it is damaged but is not in need of reprogramming.

1. Type of Key

Car keys have the ability to disappear from the most unlikely places. They can be difficult to locate, no matter if they slip out of your pocket while shopping, end up stuck between the couch cushions, or fall into the crack in the back seat. In the past, you could go to your local auto locksmith or hardware store and get a new mobile replacement car keys.

Today however, it can be quite costly when you're driving a car equipped with the latest technology, such as push-to-start and key fob technology. These systems use key fobs and remote transmitters which are tiny electronic devices. They're also packed with circuitry, which makes them expensive to replace in the event of an eventual loss.

You should therefore consider an insurance plan for your key fob which covers up to $400 dollars per key that is stolen or lost. These plans typically cover only a small fraction of the total replacement costs, and provide unlimited replacements for lost or stolen keys, as well as additional benefits such as towing and roadside assistance.

The type of key that you own will also impact the cost. Certain keys are more expensive to replace. Metal keys that don't have a key fob for instance, are relatively cheap, as they're mechanical, and can be replaced by an experienced locksmith or mechanic. If your key is equipped with transponder chips, it will require special equipment to duplicate. These machines are available from car manufacturers or dealerships and could be a major element in the price.

Laser cut keys are yet another factor that can increase the Cost replacement car key of a replacement car key replacement online key, as these are generally heavier than regular keys. They are made of metal that is molded to an exact shape, and then cut using precision lasers for an exact fit.

2. Key Fob

In the past lost car keys was not a big problem. A locksmith or car dealer would sell keys to replace them which was probably inexpensive. However as automobiles have evolved in terms of technology and so have keys, and that means replacing a lost key could be a lot more expensive than it was in the past.

In the 1990s, key fobs were popularized as a way to unlock and lock the vehicle without requiring the physical keys of a car. These small plastic fobs have an electronic button that, when pressed by the user, sends a signal to the computer onboard to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some also include a button that allows you to activate the alarm system in the vehicle or open the trunk.

A locksmith for cars can cut a traditional key without a remote at an affordable fee. This is similar to keys that were made prior to 1990. Some locksmiths will even replace a lost fob while you are waiting.

It is more expensive to replace a fob that contains an electronic chip or transponder than if it was merely an old-fashioned one. They can cost as high as $200 to reprogram and pair with a new vehicle and are usually only available through the original car dealer.

Many businesses that work with cars, including auto repair shops, car dealerships, and salvage yards, could end up with quite a few spare fobs that aren't tied to a specific vehicle. Some of these are available to consumers, while others require special equipment or technical expertise to program. This is not something that the average person can do. This is why it's always recommended to keep an extra car key in your purse or pocket, and then add GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service to your policy to make it even more convenient in the event that you need to use it.

3. Laser Cut Keys

Laser-cut keys have more ridges unlike mechanical keys. This makes them more difficult for car thieves to steal.

The blades of the key have slits on both sides that allow the key to be put into the ignition cylinder and door lock from either side. They are the most popular type of car keys available these days. They are more sought-after than traditional keys because they provide a higher degree of security and convenience.

It is crucial that the shop cutting keys has the right equipment. If not, you'll end up with a key that doesn't function properly. You must also be aware of the quality of the blade, because low-quality ones can damage the key cutting machine or even break within your ignition cylinder.

To cut a laser-cut key, the locksmith will require your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have your VIN, they are able to run the data through a computer in order to determine the specifications of your vehicle. They can then use the CNC machine to cut the key in accordance with these specifications.

They require specialized equipment to make, and they are typically only available at dealerships. However, they are much less expensive than traditional key fobs and have the added bonus of being hard to duplicate.

Labor costs for a typical laser-cut all in-one key can range from $150 to $250. These keys have to be programmed by the dealer. They remain among the most secure and convenient car keys available today.

4. Switchblade Keys

Many modern vehicles utilize key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, and also start the engine. These newer keys are not mechanical keys that can be duplicated by locksmiths and key cutters. Instead, they come with transponder chip technology integrated into. The chip has to be paired by an auto locksmith or dealer to the vehicle. These fobs are generally more expensive, ranging between $50-$100 for the basic model, and up to $200 for models with push-to-start functions.

Fobs that contain what's known as a switchblade key which folds into itself when not in use. generally cost more to replace. These keys come with shanks that retract into the fob, and then are released when required. They are more secure than standard keys, making them a great choice for those who need an extra key for valet use. Changing these keys can run between $100 and $300 based on the car and the type of key.

Contrary to the crank key, which was heavy, complicated and dangerous to handle keys made of electronic technology are light and easy to handle. These car keys also make it difficult for thieves to steal them since they are cylinder-shaped. This prevents the use of key duplicate machines that criminals use to copy your car key.

The keys are entirely electronic and communicate electronically to open the doors and begin the engine. Some keys are able to do so without being removed from the pocket of the driver. These types of keys are costly to replace and will require a trip to the dealer, which may include a towing charge.

5. Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are different from mechanical keys because they are equipped with the chip that sends a radio-frequency signal to the vehicle when the key is put into the ignition. The computer system of the vehicle analyzes the signal to determine if the serial number matches that of the key. If it does, the car will allow the key to open the door and start the engine. This is done to prevent car key replacement service thefts by making it difficult to wire a car hot and to start the engine.

In theory, this is effective, however, smart car thieves are constantly looking for ways to defeat this technology. Furthermore, the chips inside these keys aren't as long-lasting as many would like to believe. They are easily cleaned out, resulting in the key not functioning.

The cost of replacing a transponder key can be very expensive. The key blank itself can cost upwards of $50, and then there's the cost of having it programmed. This procedure requires a specific machine that's only found at car dealerships.

It is best to hire locksmiths with the proper equipment to program transponder keys. It is also a good idea to have your car's information ready, such as the year, make, and model. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used and can save you money in the long run. A locksmith can typically program an entirely new transponder-based key for around $150, but it may cost as much as $180 for cars with push-to-start capabilities with key fobs or remote transmitters. These keys require a specialized programming service that can be done only by a locksmith who is certified.