Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key

If you lose your car key, it’s important to be aware of the various costs involved. You can copy a standard key at any hardware store, but the smart key might require you to go to an auto dealer or locksmith.

But, if the fob 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 the most unlikely places. They can be difficult to locate, no matter if they fall out of your purse when you’re out shopping, are stuck between your couch cushions or fall into the crack in the back of your car. In the past, this meant that you could just pop into your local auto locksmith or hardware store and purchase a new replacement car keys near me.

It can be expensive to replace the key fob or remote transmitter if you own an automobile that is equipped with advanced technology. These systems rely on remote transmitters and key fobs which are tiny electronic devices. They’re also loaded with circuitry, which makes them costly to replace in the event of an eventual loss.

This is why you should consider getting the replacement of your key fob insurance plan, which covers up to $400 per lost key replacement car or stolen key. These plans usually cost a fraction of the total replacement costs and include unlimited key replacements for lost or stolen keys as well as additional benefits like towing coverage and roadside assistance, among others.

The type of key you’re using also impacts the cost and some keys are more costly to replace than others. Basic metal keys without keys with a fob, for example are fairly inexpensive, as they’re mechanical, and can be replaced by a professional mechanic or locksmith. If your keys have transponders, you’ll require specialized equipment to duplicate it. These devices are typically available through car dealerships or manufacturers, and could be a major factor in the total cost replacement car key.

Laser cut keys are a different aspect that can raise the cost of replacing a car key, as these are generally more substantial than regular car keys. They are fashioned from metal that is molded into the desired shape and then cut using lasers that are precise to ensure a precise fit.

2. Key Fob

In the past lost car keys was just a problem. A car dealer or locksmith would sell you a new key which was probably affordable. As cars have advanced in technology, so do their keys. This means that replacing a lost key can be more expensive.

Key fobs became popular during the ’90s as an extra feature to allow car owners to lock and unlock their car without a physical key. The small plastic fobs have an electronic button that, when pressed sends a signal to the computer of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some also contain a button that can activate the alarm system of the vehicle or open the trunk.

An automotive locksmith can cut a key without a remote for the cost of a small fee. It’s the same as those made before 1990. Some locksmiths can even replace lost fobs while you are waiting.

Fobs that contain transponders or another computer chip may be more expensive to replace than conventional ones. They can cost up to $200 to reprogram and connect to the new car 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 having a lot of spare fobs that aren’t tied to a specific vehicle. Some of them can be offered to consumers, however certain require specialized equipment and technical knowledge to make use of, something that’s readily available to the typical consumer. It is recommended to keep a spare key in your pocket or purse. You can also add GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your policy to make things easier in the event of need.

3. Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys

In contrast to traditional mechanical keys laser-cut keys have more ridges and grooves. They make them harder for thieves in cars to duplicate.

They also have slits that are inserted into the 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 keys on the market today. They are more popular than key fobs, due to their more security and convenience.

If you’re thinking of getting a laser-cut key for your car, it is crucial to ensure that the company cutting them has the right equipment. You’ll end with a key which doesn’t function properly when you don’t. You should also consider the quality of the knife, as a low-quality one can damage your key cutting machine or cause it to break within the ignition cylinder.

The locksmith will require your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a key using lasers. Once they have this information, they will run it through a computer system to retrieve the specifications of your specific car. They will then use an CNC machine to cut the key according to these specifications.

These keys require special machinery to create, and they are typically only available at dealerships. They are cheaper than traditional key fobs, but they also have the added benefit of being difficult to duplicate.

For a typical all-in-one laser cut key you’ll need to pay between $150 and $250 for labor costs. This is because these kinds of key need to be programmed at the dealership. However, 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 doors, and also start the engine. Unlike older mechanical keys, that operate mechanically and are easily duplicated by key cutters or locksmiths the newer keys for cars come with transponder chips that must be connected with the vehicle by a dealer or auto locksmith. These keys can be more expensive. They range between $50 and $100 in the basic model, and up to $200 for models that have push-to-start functionality.

Fobs that have a “switchblade” key that folds over itself when not being used they are typically more expensive to replace. They have shanks that retract into the fob, and then pop out when required. They are more secure than standard keys, which makes them a great alternative for those who require an extra key to use for valet. The cost of changing these keys varies between $100-$300 depending on the type of 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 light and easy to handle. They also make it difficult for thieves to steal them because they are cylindrical. This blocks the use of key-duplicate machines that criminals use to copy your car keys.

These keys that are completely electronic communicate electronically to open doors and begin the engine. Some keys are able to do this without having to be removed from the pocket of the driver. These keys are costly to replace and will require an appointment with a dealer, which could include a towing cost.

5. Transponder Keys

Transponder keys differ from mechanical keys due to the fact that they feature a chip that transmits a radio-frequency signal to vehicle when the key is placed into the ignition. The signal is then analyzed by the computer system of the vehicle to determine if it matches the serial number of the key. If it does, the vehicle will let the key unlock the door and begin the engine. This is to stop car thefts by making it difficult to wire a car hot and to start the engine.

Theoretically, this technology is effective however, smart car thieves always find ways to beat it. In addition, the chips that are in these types of keys are not as durable as many would like to believe. They can get wiped out quickly, which can result in the key not working at all.

The Cost Replacement Car Key of replacing transponder keys can be costly. The cost of the key blank could be up to $50. Programming it is a cost additional. This requires a special machine that is only available at dealerships for cars.

For this reason, it is best to hire a locksmith who has the proper equipment to program transponder keys. 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 ensure that the correct key blank is used and can save you money in the long run. Locksmiths typically can program the new transponder key for around $150, but it may cost as much as $180 for cars with push-to-start capabilities with remote transmitters or key fobs. These keys require a specialized programming process that is performed only by a locksmith who is certified.