Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key

It's important to know the costs involved if you lose your car key. You can copy a standard key at any hardware store, but a smart key may require you to visit a locksmith or dealership.

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

1. Key Type

Car keys have the ability to disappear in the most unexpected places. They can be difficult to find, whether they fall out of your purse when you're out shopping, end up stuck between the sofa cushions, or fall into the crack in the back of your car. In the past, you could simply go to your local hardware or auto locksmith store to purchase a replacement.

It's costly to replace the key fob or remote transmitter if you have an automobile with the latest technology. These systems use key fobs and remote transmitters that are tiny electronic devices. They're also loaded with circuitry, making them expensive to replace in the event of a loss.

This is why you should think about purchasing an insurance replacement for your key fob plan that covers up to $400 for each lost or stolen key. These plans typically cost a fraction of the total replacement costs and include unlimited lost or stolen key replacements as well as additional benefits like towing insurance and roadside assistance, among others.

The kind of key you're using can also affect the price as some keys are more costly to replace than others. Simple metal keys that do not have keys with a fob for instance are fairly inexpensive, as they're mechanical, and can be replaced by an experienced locksmith or mechanic. If your keys have a transponder, you'll need special equipment to duplicate it. These devices are typically 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 the replacement key for automobiles, as they are more substantial. They are made from metal that is molded to the desired shape, and then cut using precision lasers for a perfect fit.

2. Key Fob

In the past lost car keys was just a nuisance. A car dealer or locksmith would sell you a new key, which was probably relatively affordable. However, as cars have become more technologically advanced and so have keys, and that means replacing a lost key could be more expensive than it was in the past.

Key fobs became popular in the 1990s as an additional feature to allow car owners to lock and unlock their car without the need for a physical key. These small plastic fobs have the button that when hit by the user sends a signal to the computer onboard to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some have a button to activate the vehicle's alarm system or open the trunk.

A traditional key with no fob is akin to those made before the '90s, and it can be cut by an automotive locksmith for a small fee. Some locksmiths can even repair a lost fob while you wait.

Fobs that contain transponders or another computer chip could be more expensive to replace than conventional ones. They can cost as high as $200 to reprogram and pair with the new car, and they are generally only available through the original dealer.

Many businesses who work with cars, such as auto repair shops and dealerships could end up with a lot of spare fobs. Some of them could be offered to consumers, however others require special equipment and technical expertise to make use of, something that is easily accessible to the common consumer. It is recommended to keep an extra key in your purse or pocket. You can also add GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your insurance policy to make things even easier if you need it.

3. Laser Cut Keys

Unlike traditional mechanical keys, laser-cut keys have more ridges and grooves. They are also more difficult 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 inserted into the door and the ignition cylinder lock in either direction. They are the most commonly used kind of car keys in circulation today. They are more popular than key fobs, because they provide more security and convenience.

If you're thinking of cutting a key using lasers for your car, it is important to make sure that the place that cuts keys has the proper equipment. You'll end with keys that don't perform as expected if you don't. You must also think about the quality of the knife as a low-quality one can cause damage to your key cutting machine or even cause it to crack inside 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 get the specifications for your specific car. Then, they will make use of a CNC to cut the key in accordance with these specifications.

They require specialized equipment to create, and they are usually only available at dealerships. However, they are much less expensive than traditional key fobs, and also have the benefit of being hard to duplicate.

https://squareblogs.net/paildrink83/a-productive-rant-about-replacement-car-key-cost of labor for a typical laser-cut all-in-one key will likely range between $150 and $250. These keys need to be programmed by the dealer. They are still one of the most convenient and secure car keys available today.

4. Switchblade Keys

Modern cars typically have key fobs that are able to lock and unlock doors as well as start the engine. Unlike older mechanical keys, which work mechanically and are easily duplicated by locksmiths or key cutters, these newer car keys have transponder chips built in that must be connected with the vehicle by the dealer or an auto locksmith. These fobs are generally more expensive, and range from $50 to $100 for the basic version to $200 for models with push-to-start features.

Fobs that have what's known as a switchblade key, that folds in itself when not in use. typically, they cost more to replace. These keys have shanks which retract into the fob and release when needed. They are usually much safer than traditional keys, making them a powerful deterrent for thieves. They are also a good alternative for those who need an extra car key for valet use. The cost of changing these keys ranges between $100 and $300, depending on the car and type of key.

Contrary to the crank key that was heavy, complicated, and dangerous to handle keys made of electronic technology are lightweight and more convenient. They also make it harder for thieves to steal them, as they are cylindrical. This stops the use of key duplicate machines used by criminals to copy your car keys.

These keys that are completely electronic communicate electronically to open the doors and begin the engine. Some keys are even able to do this without having to be removed from the pocket of the driver. The process of changing these kinds of keys to cars could be costly and usually require a visit to the dealer which may or not include a towing cost.

5. Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are different from mechanical keys because they feature a chip that transmits an audio-frequency signal to the vehicle when the key is inserted into the ignition. The computer system in the vehicle scans the signal to determine whether the serial number matches that of the key. If it does, the vehicle will let the key unlock the door and start the engine. This is to stop car thefts by making it more difficult to wire a car hot and to start the engine.

In theory, this technology is effective, however, clever car thieves are always finding ways to beat this technology. Additionally, the chips in these types of keys aren't as durable as some would like to believe. They are easily cleaned out, which could result in the key not working.

The cost of replacing transponder keys could be high. The key blank can cost up to $50. Programming it is a cost additional. This requires a special machine, which is only available at car dealerships.

It is recommended to hire a professional locksmith who has the equipment for programming transponder key. It is also an excellent idea to have all of the details of your vehicle in order including the year model, make and year of the vehicle. This will ensure that the right key blank is used, which could save you money in the end. A locksmith can typically program the new transponder key for around $150, but it may cost upwards of $180 for cars that are equipped with remote transmitters or key fobs. These keys require a special programming service that can be done only by a locksmith who is certified.