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Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key It is crucial to understand the cost involved when you lose your car keys. You can find a duplicate of a standard car key from any hardware shop, but the smart key could require you to visit a locksmith or dealer. There are ways to save money if your device is damaged but is not in need of to be reprogrammed. 1. Key Type Car keys have an uncanny ability to disappear in the most unlikely places. They can be difficult to locate, no matter if they slip out of your pocket while shopping, end up stuck between the couch cushions or fall into a crack in the back seat. In the past, you could simply go to your local hardware store or auto locksmith and pick up a replacement. Nowadays however, it can be quite costly in the case of a vehicle with advanced technology, like key fob technology and push-to-start. Key fobs and remote transmitters that are used with these systems are small electronic devices that are packed with electronics that can be quite costly to replace in the event that you lose them. This is the reason you should consider obtaining the replacement of your key fob insurance plan, which covers up to $400 for each lost or stolen key. These plans typically cost less than the total cost of replacement, and come with unlimited key replacements in the event of theft or loss along with additional benefits such as towing coverage 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 a key fob for instance, are relatively cheap, because they're mechanical and can be replaced by a professional mechanic or locksmith. If your key contains 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 overall cost. Laser cut keys can increase the cost of a replacement key for cars, since they are thicker. They are made of metal that is molded to the desired shape, and then cut using lasers that are precisely calibrated to ensure an exact fit. 2. Key Fob Losing keys to your car used to be a minor issue. You could purchase an alternative key from a locksmith shop or a car dealership, and it was likely relatively cheap to do so. As cars have become more technologically advanced as have their keys. This means that replacing a lost or damaged key could be more costly. In the 1990s, key fobs were popular as a method to lock and unlock the vehicle without requiring an actual car key. These small plastic fobs have the button that when pressed by the user, signals the onboard computer to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some also have a button to activate the vehicle's alarm system or open the trunk. A traditional key without a fob is akin to those made before the '90s, and can be cut by an auto locksmith for a small fee. Some locksmiths will replace your lost fob while they are waiting. Fobs with a transponder or other computer chip may be more expensive to replace than conventional ones. They can cost as high as $200 to reprogram and connect to a new vehicle, and they are generally only available through the original car dealer. Many companies that deal with cars, such as auto repair shops or dealerships could end up with lots of spare fobs. Some of these can be offered to consumers, however certain require specialized equipment and technical expertise to make use of, something that's easily accessible to the common consumer. This is why it's always ideal to keep a spare car key in your purse or pocket, and also add the GEICO Emergency Roadside Service to your policy to make it even more convenient in the event that you need to use it. 3. Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys In contrast to traditional mechanical keys laser-cut keys have more grooves and ridges. They are also more difficult for thieves in cars to duplicate. Key blades feature slits on both sides that permit keys to be inserted into the ignition cylinder and door lock from either side. They are the most popular kind of car keys that are available these days. They are more sought-after than traditional key fobs due to the fact that they provide a higher degree of security and convenience. If you're considering cutting a key using lasers for your car, it's crucial to ensure that the shop that is cutting keys has the appropriate equipment. If not, you'll end up with a key that does not function properly. You should also consider the quality of the knife as a low-quality one can damage your key cutting machine or even cause it to crack inside the ignition cylinder. To cut a laser-cut key locksmiths need to have your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have your VIN, they are able to run the information through a computer in order to determine the specifications of your vehicle. They will then use an CNC machine to cut the key based on these specifications. They are usually only available through dealers. However, they are less costly than traditional key fobs and are also a bonus for being hard to duplicate. For a typical all-in-one laser-cut key you'll have to pay between $150 and $250 for labor costs. These keys need to be programmed by the dealer. automotive car key replacement remain among the most secure and convenient keys for cars that are available today. 4. Switchblade Keys Modern cars typically have key fobs that can lock and unlock doors as well as start the engine. These newer keys are not mechanical keys that can be easily duplicated by locksmiths or key cutters. Instead, they feature transponder chip technology built in. The chip has to be paired by an auto locksmith or dealer with the vehicle. These fobs can be more expensive. They vary from $50-$100 in the basic model, and up to $200 for models that include push-to-start functions. Fobs that have what's known as a switchblade key, which folds up when not in use, generally cost more to replace. These keys come with shanks that retract into the fob and are released when needed. They are more secure than standard keys, making them an ideal choice for those who need an additional key to use as a valet. Keys that are changed can cost between $100 and $300, depending on the car and kind of key. These electronic keys are lighter and easier to use than the crank keys of the past that were extremely heavy, complicated and dangerous to handle. They also make it difficult for thieves to steal them as they are cylindrical. This stops the use of key-duplicate machines that criminals use to copy your car key. These keys that are completely electronic communicate electronically to open doors and start the engine. Some keys are even able to do so without having to be taken from the driver's pocket. These keys are expensive to replace and will require a trip to the dealer, which may include a towing cost. 5. Transponder Keys Transponder keys differ from mechanical keys in that they feature a chip that transmits an audio-frequency signal to the vehicle when the key is inserted into the ignition. The signal is then analyzed by the vehicle's computer system to determine if it matches the serial number of the key. If it does, the vehicle will allow the key to unlock the door and start the engine. The purpose behind this is to stop car theft by making it more difficult to hot wire a car and then start the engine. Theoretically, this technology is effective However, car thieves who are smart always find ways to beat it. The chips in the keys aren't as long-lasting as some think. They are able to be easily washed out, resulting in the key not functioning. Transponder key replacement costs can be a significant expense. The key blank itself can cost as much as $50, and then there's the additional expense of programming it. This requires an exclusive machine that is only available at car dealerships. It is recommended to employ a professional locksmith with the right equipment to program transponder keys. It is also recommended to have all of your vehicle's information ready 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 in the long run. A locksmith can program a transponder-type key typically for $150, however for push-to-start cars with remote transmitters and key fobs it could cost as high as $180. These keys require a special service that can only be performed by a certified Locksmith.