Ten Things You Should Never Share On Twitter Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key

It is crucial to understand the costs involved when you lose your car key. You can copy a basic key from any hardware store, while an electronic key will require you to visit a dealership or locksmith.

However, if the device is damaged but doesn't need reprogramming, there are ways to reduce costs.

1. Type of Key

Car keys have an uncanny ability to disappear in most surprising places. They can be difficult to find, whether they fall out of your pocket while shopping, get stuck between the sofa cushions or fall into the crack in the back seat. In the past, you could pop into your local auto locksmith or hardware shop to purchase a new.

These days, however, that could be a costly proposition if you're driving a vehicle that is equipped with modern technology, such as key fob technology or push-to-start. The key fobs or remote transmitters that are used with these systems are miniature electronic devices, and they're packed with electronics that can make them quite expensive to replace in the event that you lose them.

This is the reason you should think about purchasing a key fob replacement insurance plan that covers up to $400 for each lost or stolen key. These plans usually cost less than the total replacement costs and include unlimited key replacements for lost or stolen keys along with additional benefits like towing coverage and roadside assistance, to name a few.

The type of key you have will also impact the cost and some keys are more expensive to replace than others. For instance, basic metal keys that don't have a key fob are fairly inexpensive since they're mechanical and can be easily replaced by an experienced locksmith or mechanic. However, if the key has a transponder chip, it'll require special equipment to copy. These machines are usually only available at dealerships or car manufacturers, and could be a major driver of the overall cost.

Laser cut auto car key replacement are a different aspect that can raise the cost of a replacement car key, since they are usually more substantial than regular car keys. They are made of metal that is then molded into the desired shape, and then cut with lasers that are precise to ensure an exact fit.


2. Key Fob

Losing keys to your car used to be a minor issue. You could purchase keys replacements from a locksmith or a car dealership, and it was likely relatively cheap to do so. As automobiles have become more technologically advanced and 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 that allowed car owners to lock and unlock their vehicle without a physical key. These tiny plastic keys have an electronic button that when hit by the user signals the onboard computer to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some contain a button that can activate the alarm system of the vehicle or open the trunk.

A traditional key without a fob is similar to the ones made before the '90s, and can be cut by an automotive locksmith for a small charge. Some locksmiths will repair your fob while they wait.

Fobs that contain a transponder or other computer chip may be more expensive to replace than standard ones. Reprogramming and pairing these can cost up to $200 and are only accessible through the original car dealer.

Many companies that deal with cars, such as auto repair shops and dealerships may end up with a lot of spare fobs. Some of them could be offered to consumers, however some require special equipment and technical expertise to make use of, something that is easily accessible to the average consumer. This is why it's always ideal to keep an extra car key in your pocket or purse, and add GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service to your policy to make it even more convenient should you need to use it.

3. Laser Cut Keys Keys

Laser-cut keys have deeper ridges unlike mechanical keys. They make them harder for thieves in cars to duplicate.

Key blades feature cut-outs on both sides which allow keys to be inserted in the ignition cylinder and door lock from either side. These are the most popular car keys available today. They are more popular than key fobs because they provide greater security and convenience.

It is essential that the place cutting the keys is equipped with the proper equipment. Otherwise, you'll end up with a key that doesn't work properly. You should also be aware of the quality of the blade, as low-quality blades can damage the key cutting machine or even break the ignition cylinder.

The locksmith will need your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a laser-cutted key. Once they have your VIN, they will run the information through a computer to retrieve the specifications of your vehicle. They can then use a CNC machine to cut the key according to these specifications.

They require specialized equipment to create, and they are usually only available at dealerships. However, they are much less costly than traditional key fobs and are also a bonus for being hard to duplicate.

Labor costs for a typical laser-cut all in-one key will likely range between $150-$250. These keys have to be programmed by the dealer. However, they are one of the most secure and reliable keys for cars on the market today.

4. Switchblade Keys

Modern cars often use key fobs that can lock and unlock doors and start the engine. Unlike older mechanical keys, which work mechanically and are easily duplicated by key cutters or locksmiths the newer keys for cars have transponder chips built in that need to be paired with the vehicle by the dealer or auto locksmith. These keys can be more expensive. They vary between $50 and $100 in the basic version up to $200 for models with push-to-start capabilities.

Fobs with what's referred to 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 pop out when required. They are typically more secure than standard keys, which makes them a powerful deterrent for thieves and are a good alternative for those in need of an extra car key to allow valet use. The cost of changing these keys ranges between $100 and $300 based on the car and the kind of key.

These electronic keys are lighter and more user-friendly than the old crank keys that were difficult, heavy and hazardous to use. These car keys are also more difficult to steal as they are cylindrical, which helps to prevent the use of key-duplicate devices that are used by criminals to make illegal copies of the keys to your car.

These electronic keys can open doors and start engines without needing to take them out of their pockets. These types of keys are costly to replace and will require an excursion to the dealer, which might include a towing fee.

5. Transponder Keys

Transponder keys differ from mechanical keys in that they are equipped with a chip that transmits a radio-frequency signal to vehicle when the key is put into 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, this technology is effective however, smart car thieves constantly find ways to defeat it. The chips inside these keys are also not as durable as many would like to believe. They can get wiped out quickly, which can result in the key not functioning at all.

The cost of replacing a transponder key can be quite expensive. The key blank can cost as much as $50. Programming it is an additional cost. This procedure requires an exclusive machine that is only available at car dealerships.

It is therefore recommended to employ 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 model, make and year of the vehicle. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used and can save you money in the long run. A locksmith can program a transponder-type key typically for $150, but for push-to-start cars with remote transmitters and key fobs it could cost up to $180. These keys require a specialized programming service that can be performed only by a licensed locksmith.