Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key

It is important to be aware of the cost involved when 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 visit a dealer or locksmith.

There are ways to save money if your fob is only damaged and is not in need of programming.

1. Type of Key

Car keys have the ability to disappear from the most unexpected places. They can be difficult to locate, whether they fall out of your pocket while shopping, end up stuck between the sofa cushions, or fall into the crack in the back seat. In the past, you could go to your local auto locksmith or hardware store to get a replacement.

It's expensive to replace the key fob or remote transmitter if you drive an automobile that is equipped with advanced technology. The key fobs or remote transmitters that are used with these systems are tiny electronic devices, and they're packed with electronics that can cause them to be expensive to replace in the event of losing them.

This is the reason you should consider obtaining an insurance replacement for your key fob plan that covers up to $400 per lost or stolen key. These plans typically cost a fraction of the total cost of replacement and offer unlimited key replacements in the event of theft or loss along with additional benefits like towing insurance and roadside assistance, among other things.

The type of key you have will also affect the cost. Some keys are more expensive to replace. Basic metal keys without key fobs for instance, are relatively cheap, since they're mechanical, and can be replaced by an experienced locksmith or mechanic. If your key has transponders, you'll require specialized equipment to duplicate it. These machines are only available from car dealerships or manufacturers and are a significant element in the price.

Laser cut keys may increase the cost of the replacement key for cars, since they are more substantial. They are made from metal that is molded to the desired shape, then cut with lasers that are precise to ensure an exact fit.

2. Key Fob

The loss of your car keys used to be a minor issue. You could purchase an alternative key from a locksmith or car dealership, and it was likely affordable to purchase it. However, as cars have become more technologically advanced and so have keys, and that means replacing a lost one can be more expensive than it was in the past.

In the 1990s, key fobs were popularized as a way to lock and unlock vehicles without the use of an actual car key. The small plastic fobs have a button that, when pressed, communicates to the computer onboard of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some have a button to activate the alarm system of the vehicle or open the trunk.

A traditional key with no fob is similar to those that were made prior to the '90s and it can be cut by an auto locksmith for a fee. Some locksmiths will be able to replace the fob that was lost while they wait.

Fobs that have a transponder or another chip could be more expensive to replace than standard ones. These can cost upwards of $200 to reprogram and pair with the new car and are usually only available through the original car dealer.

Many businesses that work with automobiles, including auto car key replacement near me repair shops, car dealerships, and salvage yards may end up with quite a few spare fobs that aren't tied to a particular vehicle. Some of these can be offered to consumers, however others require special equipment and technical knowledge to make use of, something that is easily accessible to the common consumer. It's best to always keep a spare key in your wallet or purse. You can also add GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your policy to make things even easier in the event of need.

3. Laser Cut Keys Keys

Laser-cut keys have more ridges in comparison to traditional mechanical keys. They make them harder for thieves in cars to duplicate.

They also have slits inserted into both sides of the key blades that allow them to be put into the door and the ignition cylinder lock in either direction. These are the most popular car key fobs replacement keys available today. They are more popular than traditional key fobs because they provide a higher degree of security and ease of use.

If you're considering getting a laser-cut key for your car, it's crucial to ensure that the place that cuts keys has the proper equipment. You'll end with keys that don't perform as expected if you don't. Be aware of the quality of the blade, as poor quality blades can cause damage to the key cutting machine or Car Key Fobs Replacement even break the ignition cylinder.

The locksmith will require your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a laser-cut key. Once they have this information, they will run it through an electronic system to find the specifications of your specific car. They will then use the CNC machine to cut the key based on these specifications.

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

Labor costs for a typical laser-cut all in-one key will likely range between $150-$250. The keys must be programmed by the dealer. But, they are one of the most secure and convenient keys for cars available today.

4. Switchblade Keys

Many modern vehicles have key fobs that lock and unlock the doors, and start the engine. These newer keys are not mechanical keys that can be easily duplicated by locksmiths or key cutters. Instead, they feature transponder chip technology built in. The chip must be connected by an auto locksmith or dealer to the vehicle. The fobs are typically more expensive, ranging from $50 to $100 for the basic version to $200 for models that have push-to-start functions.

Fobs with the "switchblade" key that folds over itself when not in use, are usually more expensive to replace. They have shanks that retract into the fob, and then are released when needed. They are far more secure than standard keys replacement for cars, making them an ideal choice for those who need an additional key to use as a valet. The cost of changing these keys varies from $100 to $300 depending on the type of vehicle and the type.

These electronic keys are lighter and easier to use than the old crank keys, which were extremely heavy, complicated and dangerous to handle. The car keys also make it harder for thieves to steal them because they are cylindrical. This prevents the use of key duplicate machines used by criminals to copy your car key.

These keys that are completely electronic communicate electronically to open doors and begin the engine - some are able to do so without being removed from the pocket of the driver. Changing these types of keys for cars can be expensive and will usually require a visit to the dealer and may or may not include a towing fee.

5. Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are different from mechanical keys in that they feature an electronic chip that transmits a radio-frequency signal to the vehicle when the key is placed into the ignition. The signal is then read by the vehicle's computer system to determine whether it matches the serial number of the key. If it does, the vehicle will let the key unlock the door and begin the engine. The concept behind this is to deter car theft by making it more difficult to wire a car and start the engine.

In the theory of it, this is efficient but the most sophisticated car thieves are always looking for ways to defeat this technology. The chips in the keys aren't as long-lasting as some like to think. They are easily cleaned out, resulting in the key not working.

Transponder key replacement costs can be quite expensive. The cost of the key blank could be up to $50. Programming it is an additional expense. This procedure requires an exclusive machine that is only available at dealerships for cars.

It is therefore recommended to employ a professional locksmith who has the necessary equipment for programming transponder key. It is also a great idea to have your vehicle's details prepared, such as the year, make, and model. This will help ensure that the right key blank is used, which could save you money in the end. Locksmiths can program a transponder-type key typically for $150, however for cars with push-to-start capabilities with remote transmitters and key fobs it could cost as high as $180. These keys require a specialized programming service that can be performed only by a certified locksmith.