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Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key It is crucial to understand the costs involved when you lose your car key. You can obtain a copy of a car key from any hardware store, however the smart key could require you to visit a dealer or locksmith. There are ways to save money on your device if it is only damaged and doesn't require to be reprogrammed. 1. Type of Key Car keys have a peculiar ability to disappear in unexpected places. They can be hard to locate, no matter if they disappear from your purse when you're out shopping, are stuck between the couch cushions or fall into the crack in the back of your car. In the past, you could simply go to your local hardware store or auto locksmith and purchase a new replacement. Nowadays, however, that could be a costly proposition in the case of a vehicle equipped with the latest technology, such as key fob technology or push-to-start. Key fobs and remote transmitters that work with these systems are miniature electronic devices that are packed with circuitry that could make them quite expensive to replace in the event of losing them. Consider the possibility of a key fob insurance policy that will cover up to 400 dollars for each key stolen or lost. These plans are usually just a fraction of cost of replacement, and offer unlimited replacements for stolen or lost keys, in addition to other benefits like towing and roadside assistance. The type of key you have will also affect the cost. Some keys are more expensive to replace. Metal keys that don't have keys with a fob, for example, are relatively cheap, since they're mechanical, and can be replaced by a professional mechanic or locksmith. If your key contains a transponder, you'll need an equipment that is specifically designed to duplicate it. These machines are only available from car dealers or manufacturers and can be a major element in the price. Laser cut keys are another factor that can increase the cost of replacing a car key, since they are typically heavier than regular keys. They are made of metal that is molded into a specific shape and are then cut using precision lasers to ensure a 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 replacement key, which was probably relatively cheap. As automobiles have become more advanced in technology as have their keys. This means that replacing a lost key can be more costly. In the 1990s, key fobs were widely used to unlock and lock vehicles without the use of a physical car key. These small plastic fobs contain the button that, when pressed, signals to the onboard computer of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some of them have buttons that trigger the security system of the vehicle or unlock the trunk. An automotive locksmith can cut a key without a remote at the cost of a small fee. It's exactly the same as keys that were made prior to 1990. Some locksmiths will replace your lost fob while they are waiting. It is more costly to replace a fob that contains an electronic chip or transponder than if it were an old-fashioned one. These can cost upwards of $200 to reprogram and connect to a new vehicle and are typically only available through the original dealer. Many businesses that work with vehicles, such as auto repair shops, car dealerships, and salvage yards could end having a lot of spare fobs not tied to a particular vehicle. Some of them can be offered to consumers, however others require special equipment and technical expertise to program, which isn't something that's easily accessible to the average consumer. This is why it's ideal to keep an extra car key in your pocket or purse and add GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service to your policy to make it even more convenient should you require it. 3. Laser Cut Keys Keys Laser-cut keys have deeper ridges in comparison to traditional mechanical keys. They make them harder for thieves in cars to duplicate. Key blades feature slits on both sides that permit the key to be inserted into the ignition cylinder and door lock from either side. They are the most commonly used kind of car keys that are that are in circulation these days. They are more popular than key fobs, due to their more security and convenience. If you're considering having a laser-cut key made for your car, it is essential to make sure the shop that is cutting keys has the proper equipment. If not, you'll end up with a key that does not perform as expected. Be aware of the quality of the blade, because low-quality ones can damage the cutting mechanism of the key or even break inside your ignition cylinder. The locksmith will require your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a laser-cutted key. Once they have your VIN, they will run the data through a computer in order to determine the specifications of your vehicle. They then utilize an CNC machine to cut the key according to these specifications. They are generally only available through dealerships. However, they are less expensive than traditional key fobs, and have the added bonus of being extremely difficult to duplicate. For an all-in-one key that is laser-cut, you'll likely be required to shell out between $150 and $250 in labor costs. The keys must be programmed by the dealer. However, they are one of the most secure and practical 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. Contrary to the older mechanical keys which are mechanical and easy to duplicate by key cutters or locksmiths These newer car keys come with transponder chips that must be connected with the vehicle by a dealer or auto locksmith. These keys are typically more expensive, and range between $50-$100 for the basic model, and up to $200 for models with push-to-start functions. Fobs with what's referred to as a switchblade, that folds in itself when not in use. typically, they cost more to replace. car key replacements have shanks that retract into the fob, which pops out at the push of a button when required. They are generally more secure than traditional keys, which makes them a great deterrent for thieves. They are also a good alternative for those who require an extra car key for valet usage. The cost of changing these keys varies from $100 to $300, depending on the vehicle and the type. Unlike the old crank key, which was difficult, heavy and dangerous to use keys that are electronic are lighter and easier to use. They also make it more difficult for thieves to steal them because they are cylindrical. This blocks the use of key-duplicate machines used by criminals to copy your car keys. These wholly electronic car keys communicate electronically to open the doors and start the engine – some are able to do so without having to be taken from the pocket of the driver. These keys are expensive to replace and require an appointment with a dealer, which may include a towing fee. 5. Transponder Keys Transponder keys differ from mechanical keys in that they are equipped with an electronic chip that transmits a radio-frequency signal to vehicle when the key is inserted in the ignition. The signal is then read by the computer system of the vehicle to determine whether it matches the serial number of the key. If it does, the car will allow the key to unlock the door and begin 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 it's possible that this technology will work, but smart car thieves always find ways to beat it. The chips in the keys aren't as durable as people like to think. They are able to be easily washed out, which can result in the key not functioning. The cost of replacing transponder keys can be high. The key blank itself could cost upwards of $50 and then you have the added expense of programming it. This procedure requires a specific machine that is only available at car dealerships. This is why it is recommended to employ a locksmith who has the right equipment to program transponder keys. It is also a good idea to have your vehicle's details ready, such as the year, make, and model. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used and can save you money over time. Locksmiths can program a transponder keys typically for $150, however for cars with push-to-start capabilities with remote transmitters and key fobs it could cost as high as $180. These keys require a specialized service that can only be done by a licensed locksmith.