Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
It's important to know the costs involved when you lose your car keys. You can copy a standard key from any hardware store, but a smart key may require you to go to a locksmith or dealership.
There are ways to save money if your fob is only damaged and does not need programming.
1. Type of Key
Car keys have an uncanny ability to disappear in most surprising places. They can be difficult to find, whether they slip out of your pocket when you're shopping, end up stuck between the couch cushions or fall into a 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 pick up a replacement.
It's costly to replace a key fob or a remote transmitter if you have a vehicle that has advanced technology. These systems rely on key fobs and remote transmitters, which are tiny electronic devices. They're also stuffed with circuitry, which makes them costly to replace in the event of the loss.
This is why you should consider obtaining the replacement of your key fob insurance plan, which will cover up to $400 for each lost or stolen key. These plans usually cost less than total cost of replacement and offer unlimited key replacements for lost or stolen keys along with additional benefits such as towing coverage and roadside assistance, among others.
The type of key you own will also impact the cost. Certain keys are more expensive to replace. For instance, simple metal keys with no key fob are fairly inexpensive since they're mechanical and can be replaced by an expert locksmith or mechanic. If your keys have transponder, you'll need an equipment that is specifically designed to duplicate it. These devices are usually available through car dealerships or manufacturers, and could be a major contributor to the total cost.
Laser cut keys are another aspect that can raise the cost of replacing a car key, as these are typically thicker than regular car keys. They are made of metal that is then molded into an exact shape, and then cut with lasers that are precise to ensure the perfect fit.
2. Key Fob
Not too long ago lost car keys was not a big nuisance. A locksmith or car dealer could sell you a new key which was probably inexpensive. As cars have technologically advanced as do their keys. This means that replacing a lost key can be more costly.
In the 1990s, key fobs were popularized as a way to unlock and lock the vehicle without requiring a physical car key. The small plastic fobs have a button that, when pressed, signals to the onboard 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.
A traditional key with no fob is akin to those that were made prior to the '90s and it can be cut by an auto locksmith for a small charge. Some locksmiths can even replace lost fobs while you are waiting.
It is more expensive to replace a fob that contains a transponder or computer chip than if it were an old-fashioned one. Reprogramming and pairing them can cost as much as $200 and are only available through the original car dealer.
Many companies that deal with cars, such as auto repair shops and car dealerships could end up with lots of spare fobs. Some of these are available to the public, whereas others require special equipment or technical knowledge to program. This is not something that the average consumer can do. 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 insurance policy to make it simpler if you require it.
3. Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys
Unlike traditional mechanical keys, laser-cut keys have more grooves and ridges. They make them harder for car thieves to duplicate.
The key blades have cut-outs on both sides that permit the key to be inserted into the ignition cylinder and door lock from either side. They are among the most sought-after car keys on the market today. They are more sought-after than traditional key fobs because they provide a higher level of security and ease of use.
It is essential that the shop cutting the keys has the correct equipment. You'll end up with keys that don't function properly when you don't. It is also important to consider the quality of the knife as a low-quality one can damage your key cutting machine or even cause it to break inside the ignition cylinder.
To cut a laser-cut key locksmiths will require your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have this information, they will run it through a computer system to get the specifications for your specific car. They will then make use of a CNC to cut the key to these specifications.
They are generally only available through dealers. They are cheaper than traditional key fobs, however, they also have the added benefit of being hard to duplicate.
The labor costs for a typical laser-cut all-in-one key could range from $150 and $250. This is because these types of keys need to be programmed by the dealership. They are still one of the most convenient and secure car keys available today.
4. Switchblade Keys
Many modern vehicles utilize key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, and start the engine. These aren't mechanical keys that can be easily duplicated by locksmiths and key cutters. Instead, they feature transponder chip technology built in. This chip must be paired by an auto locksmith or dealer to the vehicle. These keys can be more expensive. They vary from $50-$100 for the basic model up to $200 for models with push-to-start capabilities.
Fobs that have a "switchblade" key, which folds in on itself when not being used they are typically more expensive to replace. These keys have shanks which retract into the fob and pop out when needed. They are more secure than standard keys, making them a great alternative for those who require an extra key to use as a valet. Changing these keys can run between $100 and $300, depending on the car and type of key.
These electronic keys are lighter and more user-friendly than the crank keys of the past which were heavy, complicated and hazardous to use. The car keys also make it more 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 are electronic and can open doors and start engines without having to take them out of their pockets. These keys are costly to replace and require an appointment with a dealer, which could include a towing charge.
5. This Internet page differ from mechanical keys because they are equipped with 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 matches the key's serial number, the vehicle will allow the key to unlock the door and also start the engine. This is to stop car thefts by making it difficult to wire a car hot and to start the engine.
In theory, this technology is effective However, smart car thieves are constantly looking for ways to defeat this technology. Furthermore, the chips inside these keys aren't as long-lasting as people would like to believe. They are easily cleaned out, which can result in the key not working.
Transponder key replacement costs can be very expensive. The key blank itself could cost as much as $50, and then there's the cost of programming it. This procedure requires a special machine, which is only available at car dealerships.
For this reason, it is advisable to find locksmiths who have the right equipment to program transponder keys. It is also a great idea to have your car's information ready, such as the year, make, and model. This will help ensure that the right key blank is used, which will save you money in the end. A locksmith can typically program the new transponder key for about $150, but it may cost up to $180 for cars with push-to-start capabilities with key fobs or remote transmitters. These keys require a specialized service that can only be done by a licensed locksmith.