Need Inspiration? Try Looking Up Cost Replacement Car Key Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key

When you lose a car key, it's crucial to be aware of the various costs associated with. You can copy a basic key from any hardware store, but a smart key may require you to go to a dealership or locksmith.

There are ways to save money on your device if it is not damaged and doesn't require programming.

1. Type of Key

Car keys have a peculiar ability to disappear in strange places. They can be difficult to find, whether they disappear from your pocket while shopping, end up stuck between your couch cushions or fall into a crack in the back of your car. In the past, you could simply go to your local auto locksmith or hardware store to purchase a replacement.

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

This is the reason you should consider obtaining the replacement of your key fob insurance plan, which will cover up to $400 per lost or stolen key. These plans typically cost less than the total replacement costs and include unlimited key replacements for lost or stolen keys and additional benefits like towing insurance and roadside assistance, among others.

The type of key you have will also affect the cost. Certain keys are more expensive to replace. Metal keys that don't have a key fob, for example are fairly inexpensive, as they're mechanical, and can be replaced by locksmiths or mechanics who are professionals. If your key has transponders, you'll require an equipment that is specifically designed to duplicate it. These machines are usually only available through car dealerships or manufacturers and can be a major contributor to the total cost.

Laser cut keys are yet another factor that could increase the cost of replacing a car key, as these are generally more substantial than regular car keys. They are made from metal that is molded into the desired shape, and then cut using precision lasers for the perfect fit.

2. Key Fob

Not too long ago, losing your car keys was not a big inconvenience. A car dealer or locksmith could offer you a replacement key which was probably inexpensive. However, as automobiles have become more technologically advanced and so have keys, which means replacing a lost key could be much more expensive than it was in the past.

In the 1990s, key fobs became popularized as a way to lock and unlock vehicles without the use of the physical keys of a car. The small plastic fobs have an electronic button that, when pressed, signals to the onboard computer of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some are equipped with buttons that activate the security system of the vehicle or unlock the trunk.

An automotive locksmith can cut a traditional key without a remote at an affordable fee. This is similar to keys produced prior to 1990. Some locksmiths will repair your lost fob while they are waiting.

Fobs that have transponders or another computer chip could be more expensive to replace than standard ones. Reprogramming and pairing them could cost as much as $200 and are only available through the original dealer for cars.

Many businesses who work with cars, such as auto repair shops or dealerships may end up with a lot of spare fobs. Some of them could be sold to consumers, but others require special equipment and technical expertise to program, which isn't something that is easily accessible to the typical consumer. It's a good idea 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 it easier if you need it.

3. Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys

Laser-cut keys have ridges that are deeper, unlike traditional mechanical keys. This makes them more difficult for car thieves.

They also have slits that are inserted into the sides of the key blades that allow them to be inserted into the door and the ignition cylinder lock in either direction. They are among the most sought-after car keys on the market today. They are more popular than key fobs, due to their more security and convenience.

If auto car key replacement considering getting a laser-cut key for your car, it is important to make sure that the shop that is cutting them has the right equipment. Otherwise, you'll end with a key that does not function properly. You must also think about the quality of the knife, because a knife that isn't of the highest quality could harm your key cutting device or cause it to crack inside the ignition cylinder.

To cut a laser-cut keys, the locksmith will need to have your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have your VIN, they can run the data through a computer to find the specifications of your vehicle. Then, they will employ a CNC to cut the key in accordance with these specifications.

They are generally only available through dealers. However, they are much less expensive than traditional key fobs and are also a bonus for being difficult to duplicate.


Labor costs for a typical laser-cut, all-in-one key could range from $150-$250. These keys have to be programmed by the dealer. They are among the most convenient and secure keys for cars available today.

4. Switchblade Keys

Modern cars often use key fobs that can lock and unlock doors as well as start the engine. These modern keys aren't mechanical keys that are easily duplicated by locksmiths or key cutters. Instead, they come with transponder chip technology integrated into. The chip must be connected by an auto locksmith or dealer with the vehicle. These fobs are generally more expensive, and range from $50 to $100 for the basic version to $200 for models with push-to-start capabilities.

Fobs that contain what's known as a switchblade, which folds up when not in use, generally cost more 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 typically more secure than traditional keys, which makes them a great deterrent to thieves and are a good alternative for those in need of an extra car key for valet use. The cost of replacing these keys ranges between $100-$300, depending on the vehicle and the type of key.

Unlike the old crank key that was complex, heavy and dangerous to handle keys that are electronic are lightweight and more convenient. They also make it harder for thieves to steal them, since they are cylinder-shaped. This prevents the use of key duplicate machines that criminals use to copy your car key.

The keys are entirely electronic and communicate electronically to open doors and begin the engine. Some keys are able to do so without having to be taken from the driver's pocket. These keys are expensive to replace and require an appointment with a dealer, which may include a towing fee.

5. Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are different from mechanical keys in that they have a chip that transmits a radio-frequency signal to vehicle when the key is placed in the ignition. The computer system in the vehicle reads the signal to determine if the serial number matches the one on the key. If it matches the key's serial number, the vehicle will allow the key unlock the door and to start the engine. The purpose behind this is to stop car theft by making it more difficult to connect a car's hot wire and start the engine.

Theoretically, this technology is effective, but smart car thieves constantly find ways to defeat it. Additionally, the chips in these types of keys aren't as durable as people would like to believe. They can be easily wiped out, resulting in the key not functioning.

auto car key replacement of replacing transponder keys can be high. The key blank can cost as much as $50 and then there's the cost of having it programmed. This process involves using a special machine, which is only available at dealerships for cars.

It is therefore best to hire a professional locksmith who has the tools to program transponder keys. It is also a good idea to have your vehicle's details ready, including the year model, make, and year. This will 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 key fobs and remote transmitters, it could cost up to $180. These keys require a specific programming service that can be performed only by a certified locksmith.