Why You Should Be Working With This Cost Replacement Car Key Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key

If you lose a car key, it's important to be aware of the various costs that are involved. You can get a copy of a car key at any hardware shop, but a smart key may require you to visit a dealer or locksmith.

There are ways to save money on your device if it is only damaged and does not need to be reprogrammed.

1. Type of Key

Car keys have the ability to disappear in the most unexpected places. They can be difficult to locate, whether they disappear from 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 visit your local auto locksmith or hardware shop to purchase a new.


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

It is recommended to consider a key fob insurance plan which covers up to 400 dollars for each key that is stolen or lost. 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 other things.

The kind of key you're using also impacts the cost, with some types being more expensive to replace than others. For instance, basic metal keys that don't have a key fob are relatively inexpensive, because they're mechanical, and can be easily replaced by an expert locksmith or mechanic. If your key has a transponder chip, it'll require specialized equipment to duplicate. These devices are usually available through car dealerships or manufacturers, and could be a major contributor to the total cost.

Laser cut keys can also increase the cost of keys for replacement on automobiles, as they are more substantial. They are made of metal that is molded into a particular shape, and then are cut using lasers that are precisely calibrated to ensure the perfect fit.

2. Key Fob

Not too long ago, losing your car keys was a problem. A locksmith or car dealer would sell you a new key, which was probably relatively affordable. However since auto key replacement have become more technologically advanced, so too have their keys, which means replacing a lost one can be much more expensive than it was in the past.

In the 1990s, key fobs were widely used to lock and unlock a vehicle without using an actual car key. The tiny plastic fobs include a button that, when pressed signals to the onboard computer of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some also include a button that allows you to activate the vehicle's alarm system or open the trunk.

A traditional key without a fob is similar to those that were made prior to the '90s and it can be cut by an auto locksmith for a small fee. Some locksmiths will repair the fob that was lost while they wait.

It can be more expensive to replace a fob that has an electronic chip or transponder than if it was merely an ordinary one. Reprogramming and pairing them could cost as much as $200 and are only available through the original dealer of the car.

Many companies that deal with cars, such as auto repair shops or dealerships may end up with lots of spare fobs. Some are available to the general public, while others require specialized equipment or technical expertise to program. This isn't something that the average person can do. It's best to always keep a spare key in your pocket or purse. You can also add GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your insurance policy to make things easier in the event of need.

3. Laser Cut Keys Keys

Laser-cut keys have more ridges in comparison to traditional mechanical keys. This makes them harder for car thieves.

They also have slits tooled into both sides of the key blade, which allows them to be inserted into the door and the ignition cylinder lock in either direction. These are the most common kind of car keys that are available in the present. They are more sought-after than traditional keys because they offer a higher level of security and ease of use.

If you're interested in getting a laser-cut key for your car, it is crucial to ensure that the shop that is cutting keys has the appropriate equipment. You'll get an unusable key that doesn't work properly when you don't. You should also be aware of the quality of the blade, since low-quality ones can damage the key cutting machine or even break inside your ignition cylinder.

To cut a key using lasers locksmiths will require your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have this information, they can run it through an electronic system to find the specifications of your specific vehicle. They can then use an CNC machine to cut the key based on these specifications.

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

For a typical all-in-one laser cut key, you'll likely be required to shell out between $150 and $250 for labor costs. These keys need to be programmed by the dealer. They are nevertheless one of the most secure and reliable car keys on the market today.

4. Switchblade Keys

A lot of modern cars have key fobs that lock and unlock doors, and turn on the engine. Contrary to the older mechanical keys which work mechanically and are easily duplicated by key cutters or locksmiths, these newer car keys contain transponder chips that must be connected with the vehicle by the dealer or auto locksmith. These keys are more expensive. They range between $50 and $100 for the basic model up to $200 for models with push-to-start functions.

Fobs that have what's known as a switchblade key which folds up when not in use, generally cost more to replace. These keys come with shanks that retract into the fob and pop out when required. They are typically more secure than standard keys, making them a great deterrent to thieves and are a good alternative for those who need an extra car key to allow valet use. The cost of changing these keys can range between $100-$300 depending on the type of vehicle and the type.

These electronic keys are lighter and more user-friendly than the crank keys of the past which were difficult, heavy and hazardous to use. They also make it harder for thieves to steal them, because they are cylindrical. This stops the use of key-duplicate machines that criminals use to copy your car keys.

These electronic keys can open doors and start engines without the driver having to take them out of their pockets. Changing these types of car keys can be costly and typically require a trip to the dealer, which may or may not include a towing charge.

5. Transponder Keys

Transponder keys differ from mechanical keys in that they have an electronic chip that transmits a radio-frequency signal to the vehicle when the key is put in the ignition. The computer system of the vehicle scans the signal to determine whether the serial number is identical to the one on 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 harder to wire a car hot and also to start the engine.

In theory, this is effective However, the most sophisticated car thieves are always looking for ways to defeat this technology. The chips in these keys aren't as durable as many would like to believe. They are prone to being destroyed quickly, which can result in the key not working at all.

The cost of replacing transponder keys could be expensive. The cost of the key blank could be as much as $50. Programming it is a cost additional. This process involves using an exclusive machine that is only available at car dealerships.

It is therefore recommended to find a locksmith professional who has the necessary equipment to program transponder keys. It is also a good idea to have your car's information prepared, such as the year model, make, and year of the vehicle. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used, and will save you money over time. Locksmiths can program a transponder keys typically for $150, but for cars with push-to-start capabilities with remote transmitters and key fobs it could cost up to $180. These keys require a special service that can only be performed by a certified Locksmith.

This user has nothing created or favorited (yet).