Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key

It is important to be aware of the cost involved when you lose your car key. You can get a copy of a car key replacement for car from any hardware store, however a smart key might require you to go to a locksmith or dealer.

However, if the fob is merely damaged and doesn't need reprogramming there are ways to cut costs.

1. Key Type

car keys replacement cost keys have a strange ability to disappear in unexpected places. They can be hard to locate, whether they slip out of your pocket while shopping, end up stuck between your couch cushions or fall into the crack in the back seat. In the past, this meant that you could simply go to your local auto locksmith or hardware store and purchase a new replacement.

Nowadays however, it could be a costly proposition if you're driving a vehicle with advanced technology, like push-to-start and key fob technology. Key fobs and remote transmitters that are used with these systems are small electronic devices that are packed with electronics that can make them quite expensive to replace in the event of losing them.

Consider an insurance plan for your key fob that will cover up to 400 dollars for each key lost or stolen. These plans typically represent only a small fraction of the cost of replacement, and offer unlimited replacements for stolen or lost keys as well as other benefits like towing or roadside assistance.

The type of key that you have will also affect the cost. Some keys are more expensive to replace. For instance, basic keys made of metal with no fob are fairly inexpensive because they're mechanical, and can be easily replaced by a professional locksmith or mechanic. If your key contains transponders, you'll require specialized equipment to duplicate it. These machines are available from mobile car key replacement manufacturers or dealerships and could be a major factor in the cost.

Laser cut keys are yet another aspect that can raise the cost of a replacement car key, because they are usually thicker than regular car keys. They are made of metal that is molded to a particular shape, and then are cut with lasers that are precise to ensure an exact fit.

2. Key Fob

Not too long ago lost car keys was just a inconvenience. You could get keys replacements from a locksmith shop or a car dealership and it was affordable to purchase it. As cars have advanced in technology, so have their keys. This means that replacing a lost or damaged key could be more expensive.

Key fobs became popular in the 1990s as an additional feature that allowed car replacement key cost owners to lock and unlock their vehicles without the need for a physical key. The small plastic fobs have the button that, when pressed communicates to the computer onboard of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some have buttons that activate the vehicle's security system or unlock the trunk.

A key that is not fitted with a fob is akin to those made prior to the 1990s, and can be cut by an auto locksmith for a small fee. Some locksmiths will even replace the fob that was lost while you wait.

It's more expensive to replace a fob that has a transponder or computer chip as opposed to a traditional one. Reprogramming and pairing them can cost up to $200 and are only available from the original dealer of the car.

Many businesses who work with cars, such as auto repair shops or dealerships could have a large number of spare fobs. Some of these can be offered to consumers, however some require special equipment and technical expertise to program, which isn't something that's readily available to the average consumer. This is why it's best to keep an extra car key in your pocket or purse, and also add the GEICO Emergency Roadside Service to your insurance policy to make it more convenient in the event that you require it.

3. Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys

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

The blades of the key have cut-outs on both sides that allow keys to be inserted into the ignition cylinder as well as the door lock from either side. They are among the most sought-after car keys available today. They are more popular than traditional key fobs due to the fact that they provide a higher degree of security and convenience.

It is important that the shop cutting keys has the proper equipment. You'll end up with keys that don't work properly in the event that you don't. You should also consider the quality of the knife, since a poor quality knife could harm your key cutting device or even cause it to break within the ignition cylinder.

To cut a laser-cut keys locksmiths need to have your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have this information, they will run it through a computer system to retrieve the specifications specific to your car. They then utilize the CNC machine to cut the key in accordance with these specifications.

These keys require special machinery to make, and they are usually only available at dealerships. However, they are less expensive than traditional key fobs and are also a bonus for being extremely difficult to duplicate.

Labor costs for a typical laser-cut all in-one key can range from $150 and $250. This is because these types of keys need to be programmed at the dealership. They are still one of the most convenient and secure car keys available today.

4. Switchblade Keys

A lot of modern cars use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, as well as start the engine. Contrary to the older mechanical keys which are mechanical and easy to duplicate by key cutters or locksmiths These newer car keys contain transponder chips that need to be paired 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 to $200 for models with push-to-start capabilities.

Fobs with the "switchblade" key that folds over itself when not in use they are typically more expensive to replace. The keys are equipped with shanks that retract into the fob, which then is released at the push of a button when required. They are usually much more secure than traditional keys, making them a powerful deterrent for thieves. They are also a good alternative for those who require an extra car key for valet usage. The cost of replacing these keys ranges between $100 and $300, depending on the vehicle and the type of key.

In contrast to the crank key of the past that was difficult, heavy and dangerous to handle keys made of electronic technology are lightweight and more convenient. These car keys also make it more difficult for thieves to steal them, as they are cylindrical. This blocks the use of key-duplicate devices used by criminals to copy your car key.

These wholly electronic car keys communicate electronically to open doors and begin the engine. Some can even do this without having to be removed from the pocket of the driver. Changing these types of keys for cars can be expensive and will generally require a visit to the dealership, which may or may not include a towing charge.

5. Transponder Keys

Transponder keys differ from mechanical keys because they are equipped with a chip that transmits a radio-frequency signal to vehicle when the key is placed in the ignition. The signal is then analyzed by the car's computer system to determine whether it matches the serial number of the key. If it does, the car will allow the key to open the door and begin the engine. The purpose behind this is to prevent car theft by making it harder to wire a car and start the engine.

In theory, this is effective but smart car thieves are constantly finding ways to beat this technology. In addition, the chips that are in these keys aren't as durable as some would like to believe. They are able to be easily washed out, which can result in the key not functioning.

The cost of replacing transponder keys could be high. The cost of the key blank could be as much as $50. Programming it is an additional cost. This procedure requires a special machine, which is only available at car dealerships.

It is therefore recommended to employ a professional locksmith with the right equipment for programming transponder key. 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 help ensure that the correct key blank is used, which will save you money in the end. A locksmith can typically program the new transponder key for around $150, but it may cost upwards of $180 for cars with push-to-start capabilities with key fobs or remote transmitters. These keys require a specialized service that can only be done by a locksmith who is certified.