Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key

It's important to know the cost of car key replacement involved when you lose your car key replacement service keys. You can find a duplicate of a car key from any hardware store, but a smart key might require you to go to a locksmith or dealer.

There are ways to save money if your fob is not damaged and does not need reprogramming.

1. Type of Key

Car keys have an uncanny ability to disappear in the most unlikely places. They can be lost in your purse during shopping, or get stuck between the couch cushions or fall into the crack in your back seat, they're always a little difficult to locate. In the past, you could just pop into your local hardware store or auto locksmith and pick up a replacement car key near me.

It's expensive to replace the key fob or remote transmitter if you have an automobile with the latest technology. Key fobs or remote transmitters that work with these systems are tiny electronic devices, and are packed with electronics that can be quite costly to replace if you lose them.

This is the reason 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 cover a fraction of cost of replacement, and offer unlimited replacements for lost or stolen keys, in addition to other benefits like towing and roadside assistance.

The type of key you're using will also impact the cost and some keys are more expensive to replace than other. Metal keys that don't have keys with a fob for instance are relatively inexpensive since they're mechanical, and can be replaced by an experienced locksmith or mechanic. However, if the key is equipped with a transponder chip, it'll require specialized equipment to copy. These machines are available from car manufacturers or dealerships and are a significant element in the price.

Laser cut keys are yet another aspect that can raise the cost of replacing a car key, since they are generally thicker than regular car keys. They are made of metal that's molded into an exact shape, and then cut using lasers that are precise to ensure a perfect fit.

2. Key Fob

Not too long ago, losing your car keys was a nuisance. A locksmith or car key Replacement online dealer could sell keys to replace them which was probably cheap. As cars have advanced in technology as have their keys. This means that replacing a lost or damaged key could be more expensive.

Key fobs were popular in the 90s as an added feature that allowed car owners to lock and unlock their car without the need for a physical key. These tiny plastic keys have the button that, when it is pressed by the user sends a signal to the computer onboard to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some have buttons that activate the security system of the vehicle or open the trunk.

An automotive locksmith can cut a key without a remote for an affordable fee. This is exactly the same as keys made before 1990. Some locksmiths can even replace a lost fob while you are waiting.

It's more expensive to replace a fob that contains an electronic chip or transponder than if it was merely a traditional one. These can cost upwards of $200 to reprogram and connect to an entirely new vehicle and are typically only available through the original dealer.

Many companies that deal with cars keys replacement, such as auto repair shops and car dealerships might end up with lots of spare fobs. Some of them are accessible to the general public, while others require special equipment or technical expertise to program. This isn't something that the average consumer can do. It's best to always keep a spare key in your wallet or purse. You can also add GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your policy to make things even simpler if you require it.

3. Keys Laser Cut Keys

In contrast to traditional mechanical keys laser-cut keys have deeper ridges and grooves. This makes them harder for car thieves.

They also have slits that are inserted into the sides of the key blade that allow them to be put into the door and the ignition cylinder lock from either direction. They are the most popular kind of car keys available today. They are more popular than key fobs because they provide greater security and ease of use.

It is crucial that the company cutting the keys has the right equipment. Otherwise, you'll end up 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 damage your key cutting machine or even cause it to break inside the ignition cylinder.

To cut a key using lasers locksmiths require your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have your VIN, they will run the data through a computer to find the specifications of your car. Then, they will employ the CNC to cut the key to these specifications.

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

The labor costs for a typical laser-cut all-in-one key will likely range between $150 and $250. The keys must be programmed by the dealer. But, they are one of the most secure and reliable keys for cars available today.

4. Switchblade Keys

Modern cars usually have key fobs that are able to lock and unlock doors and start the engine. Unlike older mechanical keys, which work mechanically and are easy to duplicate by key cutters or locksmiths, these newer car keys come with transponder chips that need to be paired with the vehicle by the dealer or an auto locksmith. These fobs can be more expensive. They range between $50 and $100 for the basic model up to $200 for models that include push-to-start functions.

Fobs that have a "switchblade" key that folds over itself when not in use they are typically more expensive to replace. These keys have shanks which retract into the fob and release when required. They are generally more secure than traditional keys, making them a powerful deterrent for thieves. They are also a good alternative for those in need of an extra car key for valet use. The cost of changing these keys can range between $100-$300 depending on the type of vehicle and the type.

They are lighter and simpler to use than the crank keys of the past, which were difficult, heavy and dangerous to handle. They are also much more difficult to steal since they are cylindrical, which can prevent the use of key-duplicate devices used by criminals to make illegal copies of your car's key.

These wholly electronic car keys communicate electronically to open doors and begin the engine. Some can even do so without having to be taken from the pocket of the driver. Changing these types of keys for cars can be costly and typically require a trip to the dealer and may or may not include a towing cost.

5. Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are different from mechanical keys in that they are equipped with a chip that transmits a radio-frequency signal to vehicle when the key is placed into the ignition. The computer system of the vehicle scans the signal to determine whether the serial number matches the one on the key. If it does, the vehicle will allow the key to open the door and start the engine. The concept behind this is to prevent car theft by making it harder to hot wire a car and then start the engine.

Theoretically, this technology is effective However, car replacement key thieves who are smart always find ways to beat it. The chips in these keys are also not as durable as people think. They are able to be easily washed out, which can result in the key not working.

The cost of replacing transponder keys could be costly. The key blank can cost up to $50. Programming it is an additional cost. This process involves using a specific machine, which is only available at dealerships for cars.

It is therefore recommended to employ a professional locksmith who has the necessary equipment to program transponder keys. 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 right key blank is used and could save you money over time. Locksmiths typically can program the new transponder key for around $150, but it may cost upwards of $180 for push-to-start cars 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.