Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key

It is crucial to understand the costs involved when you lose your car keys. You can copy a standard key from any hardware store, whereas a smart key may require you to go to an auto dealer or locksmith.

However, if the device isn't damaged and does not require to be reprogrammed, there are ways to reduce costs.

1. Type of Key

Car keys have an uncanny ability to disappear in most unlikely places. They can be difficult to find, whether they fall out of your purse when you're out shopping, get stuck between your couch cushions, or fall into the crack in the back seat. In the past, you could pop into your local auto locksmith or hardware store to purchase a replacement.

It can be expensive to replace the key fob or remote transmitter if you own a vehicle that has advanced technology. Key fobs or remote transmitters that are used with these systems are miniature electronic devices that are packed with circuitry that can cause them to be expensive to replace in the event of losing them.

This is the reason you should think about purchasing an insurance replacement for your key fob plan, which will cover up to $400 per lost or stolen key. These plans usually cost less than total replacement costs and include unlimited lost or stolen key replacements along with additional benefits such as towing coverage and roadside assistance, among others.

The kind of key you're using will also impact the cost and some keys are more expensive to replace than other. Simple metal keys that do not have a key fob for instance are fairly inexpensive, because they're mechanical and can be replaced by locksmiths or mechanics who are professionals. However, if the key is equipped with transponder chips, it will require special equipment to duplicate. These devices are usually available at dealerships or car manufacturers and can be a major car key replacement price driver of the total cost.

Laser cut keys can also increase the cost of a replacement car key of the replacement key for automobiles, as they are thicker. They are made of metal that's molded into a specific shape and are then cut using lasers that are precise to ensure a perfect fit.

2. Key Fob

In the past, losing your car keys was just a inconvenience. You could get a replacement key from a locksmith or a car dealership and it was inexpensive to purchase one. As cars have advanced in technology and so do their keys. This means that replacing a lost or damaged key could be more expensive.

Key fobs became popular during the 90s as an added feature that allowed car owners to lock and unlock their vehicle without the need for a physical key. The small plastic fobs have a button that, when pressed signals to the onboard computer of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some also have a button to activate the alarm system of the vehicle or open the trunk.

A traditional key without a fob is similar to those that were made prior to the '90s and can be cut by an automotive locksmith for a small charge. Some locksmiths can even repair a lost fob while you are waiting.

Fobs that contain transponders or another computer chip can be more costly to replace than conventional ones. Reprogramming and pairing them could cost up to $200 and are only available from the original dealer for cars.

Many companies that deal with cars, including auto repair shops, car dealerships, and salvage yards, could end with a number of spare fobs not tied to a specific vehicle. Some of them are accessible to the general public, while others require specialized equipment or technical knowledge to program. This isn't something that the average person could do. It is recommended to keep a spare key in your pocket or purse. You can also include GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your policy to make things even easier in the event of need.

3. Laser Cut Keys Keys

In contrast to traditional mechanical keys laser-cut keys have deeper ridges and grooves. This makes them less prone to car thieves to steal.

The key blades have cut-outs on both sides which allow keys to be inserted into the ignition cylinder and door lock from either side. They are among the most sought-after car keys on the market today. They are more popular than key fobs due to their greater security and ease of use.

It is important that the shop cutting the keys has the correct equipment. Otherwise, you'll end up with a key that doesn't function properly. You should also be aware of the quality of the blade, because low-quality blades can damage the key cutting machine or even break within your ignition cylinder.

To cut a key using lasers locksmiths will need to have your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have this information, they can run it through a computer system to get the specifications for your specific car. They then utilize a CNC machine to cut the key according to these specifications.

They are typically only available through dealerships. However, they are much less expensive than traditional key fobs, and also have the benefit of being difficult to duplicate.

The labor costs for a typical laser-cut, all-in-one key could range from $150 and $250. This is due to the fact that these types of keys need to be programmed at the dealership. They are still one of the most convenient and secure keys for cars available today.

4. Switchblade Keys

Modern cars often use key fobs that lock and unlock doors and start the engine. In contrast to older mechanical keys that operate mechanically and car key replacement price are easy to duplicate by locksmiths or key cutters, these newer car keys come with transponder chips that must be connected with the vehicle by a dealer or auto locksmith. The fobs 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 with the "switchblade" key, which folds in on itself when not being used, are usually more expensive to replace. The keys are equipped with shanks that retract into the fob, which is released at the push of a button when needed. They are generally more secure than standard keys, making them a great deterrent for thieves and a great alternative for those who need an extra car key to allow valet usage. The cost of changing these keys varies between $100 and $300 depending on the car Key Replacement price and the type.

These electronic keys are lighter and simpler to use than the old crank keys that were heavy, complicated and hazardous to use. The 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 keys.

These electronic keys can open doors and start engines without having to remove them from their pockets. The process of changing these kinds of keys to cars can be expensive and will generally require a visit to the dealer which may or not include a towing charge.

5. Transponder Keys

Unlike mechanical keys, transponder keys contain a chip within them that relays 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 allow the key to open the door and begin the engine. This is to stop car thefts by making it difficult to connect a car's hot wire and to start the engine.

Theoretically it is possible that this technology works, but smart car thieves constantly find ways to defeat it. In addition, the chips that are in these types of keys aren't as long-lasting as people would like to believe. They are easily cleaned out, resulting in the key not working.

The cost of replacing transponder keys could be expensive. The key blank itself could cost upwards of $50 and then there's the cost of having it programmed. This process requires a special machine that is only available in dealerships for cars.

It is recommended to hire a professional locksmith who has the equipment for programming transponder key. It is also recommended to have all the details of your vehicle in order, including the year, make and model. This will ensure that the right key blank is used, which can save you money in the end. Locksmiths typically can program an entirely new transponder-based key for about $150, but it can cost as much as $180 for push-to-start cars equipped with remote transmitters or key fobs. These keys require a special programming service that can be done only by a certified locksmith.