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Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key

If you lose a car key, you need to know the different costs involved. You can copy a standard key from any hardware store, whereas the smart key might require you to go to an auto dealer or locksmith.

However, if the device is damaged but doesn't require changing its programming, there are ways to cut costs.

1. Type of Key

Car keys have an uncanny ability to disappear in the most unexpected places. They can be hard to locate, no matter if they fall out of your pocket while shopping, end up stuck between the couch cushions or fall into the crack in the back seat. In the past, you could go to your local auto locksmith or hardware store and pick up a replacement.

Today, however, that can be an expensive proposition if you're driving a vehicle that is equipped with modern technology, such as key fob technology and push-to-start. These systems rely on key fobs and remote transmitters that are tiny electronic devices. They're also packed with circuitry, which makes them expensive to replace in the event of an eventual loss.

This is the reason you should consider getting the mobile replacement car keys of your key fob insurance plan, which covers up to $400 per lost or stolen key. These plans typically cover just a fraction of total replacement costs, and include unlimited replacements for stolen or lost keys as well as other benefits such as towing and roadside assistance.

The kind of key you're using will also impact the cost, with some types being more costly 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 replaced by a professional locksmith or mechanic. However, if the key is equipped with a transponder chip, it'll require specialized equipment to duplicate. These machines are available from car dealers or manufacturers and can be a major factor in the cost.

Laser cut keys are a different aspect that can raise the cost of a replacement car key, since they are typically thicker than regular car keys. They are made of metal that is molded into a particular shape, then cut using precision lasers for a perfect fit.

2. Key Fob

Not too long ago, losing your car keys was a inconvenience. You could get keys replacements from a locksmith shop or a car dealership and it was relatively cheap to do so. As automobiles have become more advanced in technology and so have their keys. This means that replacing a lost or damaged key could be more costly.

Key fobs became popular in the 1990s as an additional feature that allowed car owners to lock and unlock their car without a physical key. These small plastic fobs contain a 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 vehicle's security system or unlock the trunk.

An automotive locksmith can cut a key without a remote for an affordable fee. This is similar to keys made before 1990. Some locksmiths will replace your lost fob while they wait.

Fobs that contain a transponder or another chip may be more expensive to replace than standard ones. They can cost as high as $200 to reprogram and connect to the new car key replacement car and are typically only available through the original dealer.

Many businesses who work with cars, such as auto repair shops and car dealerships might have a large number of spare fobs. Some of them can be sold to consumers, but some require special equipment and technical expertise to make use of, something that is easily accessible to the typical consumer. This is why it's ideal to keep an extra mobile car key replacement near me key in your purse or pocket and also add GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service to your policy to make it even more convenient should you ever require it.

3. Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys

Laser-cut keys have ridges that are deeper, unlike traditional mechanical keys. This makes them harder for car thieves.

The key blades have two slits that allow the key to be put into the ignition cylinder as well as the door lock from either side. They are the most commonly used kind of car keys that are that are in circulation today. They are more popular than key fobs because they provide greater security and ease of use.

It is crucial that the company cutting keys has the proper equipment. You'll end with an unusable key that doesn't function properly when you don't. Be aware of the quality of the blade, since low-quality blades can damage the key cutting machine or even break within your ignition cylinder.

The locksmith will need your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a laser-cutted key. Once they have this information, they can run it through a computer system to retrieve the specifications for your specific vehicle. They will then use the CNC machine to cut the key according to these specifications.

These keys require special machinery to create, and are generally only available through dealerships. However, they are less expensive than traditional key fobs and are also a bonus for being hard to duplicate.

Labor costs for a typical laser-cut all in-one key could range from $150 to $250. This is due to the fact that these types of keys must be programmed at the dealership. They are still one of the most secure and convenient car keys available today.

4. Switchblade Keys

Many modern vehicles utilize key fobs to lock and unlock doors, as well as turn on the engine. These aren't mechanical keys that are easily duplicated by locksmiths and key cutters. Instead, they feature transponder chip technology integrated into. This chip must be paired by an auto locksmith or dealer to the vehicle. These keys can be more expensive. They range from $50 to $100 in the basic model, and up to $200 for models that include push-to-start functionality.

Fobs with a "switchblade" key that folds up on itself when not in use, are usually more expensive to replace. These keys have shanks which retract into the fob, and then are released when required. They are much more secure than standard keys, which makes them an ideal choice for those who need an additional key to use for valet. Changing these keys can run between $100 and $300 based on the car and the type of key.

In contrast to the crank key of the past, which was complex, heavy and dangerous to use keys made of electronic technology are lighter and easier to use. They are also more difficult to steal because they are cylindrical, which helps to prevent the use of key duplicate devices that are used by criminals to create illegal copies of the keys to your car.

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

5. Transponder Keys

Transponder keys differ from mechanical keys due to the fact that they feature the chip that sends a radio-frequency signal to vehicle when the key is placed into the ignition. The computer system in the vehicle reads the signal to determine whether the serial number is identical to that of the key. If it is, the vehicle will allow the key to unlock the door and to start the engine. This is done to prevent car thefts by making it more difficult to connect a car's hot wire and also to start the engine.

In the theory of it, this is efficient However, smart car key cover replacement thieves are constantly finding ways to beat this technology. The chips in the keys aren't as durable as many would like to think. They are easily cleaned out, which could result in the key not functioning.

The cost of replacing transponder keys can be high. The key blank itself could cost as much as $50, and then there's the added expense of having it programmed. This procedure requires a special machine, which is only available at car dealerships.

It is therefore recommended to employ a professional locksmith who has the necessary tools to program transponder keys. It is also a great idea to have your vehicle's details prepared, such as the year, make, and model. This will help ensure that the correct key blank is used, which could save you money in the end. A locksmith can program a transponder-type key typically for $150, however for push-to start cars equipped with key fobs and remote transmitters, it could cost as high as $180. These keys require a special service that is only done by a locksmith who is certified.