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Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key When you lose a car key, you need to be aware of the various costs that are involved. You can get 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 if your device is not damaged and does not need to be reprogrammed. 1. Type of Key Car keys have an uncanny ability to disappear from the most surprising places. If they disappear from your purse during shopping, get wedged between the couch cushions, or fall down the crack of the back seat and are a bit hard to find. In the past, you could pop into your local auto locksmith or hardware store to get a replacement. It's expensive to replace a key fob or remote transmitter if you drive a vehicle that has advanced technology. Key fobs and remote transmitters that are used with these systems are small electronic devices, and they're packed with circuitry that could be quite costly to replace in the event that you lose them. You should therefore consider an insurance plan for your key fob that covers up to $400 dollars per key lost or stolen. These plans usually cost a fraction of the total cost of replacement and offer unlimited key replacements for lost or stolen keys along with additional benefits like towing coverage and roadside assistance, among others. The type of key you're using also impacts the cost and some keys are more costly to replace than others. For instance, basic keys made of metal with no fob are relatively inexpensive, because they're mechanical, and can be easily replaced by an expert locksmith or mechanic. However, if the key is equipped with a transponder chip, it'll require special equipment to copy. These devices are usually accessible through dealerships or car manufacturers, and could be a major contributor to the total cost. Laser cut keys can also increase the cost of keys for replacement on cars, since they are more substantial. They are made from metal that is then molded to the desired shape and then cut using lasers that are precise to ensure a perfect fit. 2. Key Fob In the past lost car keys was not a big inconvenience. A car dealer or locksmith would sell you a replacement key which was probably affordable. As automobiles have become more technologically advanced and so have their keys. This means that replacing a lost or damaged key could be more costly. Key fobs became popular during the '90s as an extra feature that allowed car owners to lock and unlock their vehicle without a physical key. The tiny plastic fobs include the button that, when pressed, sends a signal to the computer of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some have buttons that activate the security system of the vehicle or unlock the trunk. A key that is not fitted with a fob is akin to those made before the '90s, and it can be cut by an auto locksmith for a small fee. Some locksmiths will be able to replace your lost fob while they wait. 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 pair with the new car and are typically only available through the dealer who sold the original car. Many businesses who work with vehicles, such as auto repair shops or dealerships could end up with lots of spare fobs. Some of them could be offered to consumers, however some require special equipment and technical expertise to make use of, something that's easily accessible to the typical consumer. It's best to always keep an extra key in your purse or pocket. You can also include GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your policy to make it simpler if you require it. 3. Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys In contrast to traditional mechanical keys laser-cut keys feature deeper grooves and ridges. This makes them harder for car thieves. They also have slits that are inserted into both sides of the key blade, which allows them to be placed into the door or ignition cylinder lock from either direction. These are the most well-known car keys on the market today. They are more popular than key fobs, due to their greater security and convenience. It is crucial that the place cutting keys has the correct equipment. If not, updated blog post 'll end up with a key that does not perform as expected. You should also be aware of the quality of the blade, because poor quality blades can cause damage to the cutting mechanism of the key 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 an electronic system to find the specifications specific to your vehicle. They will then use the CNC machine to cut the key based on these specifications. They are generally only available through dealers. They are more affordable than traditional key fobs but they also have the added benefit of being hard to duplicate. For a typical all-in-one laser-cut key you'll need to pay between $150 and $250 for labor costs. This is because these types of key need to be programmed by the dealership. They are still one of the most convenient and secure keys for cars that are 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. These newer keys are not mechanical keys that can be duplicated by locksmiths or key cutters. Instead, they have transponder chip technology built in. This chip must be paired by an auto locksmith or dealer to the vehicle. The fobs are typically more expensive, ranging between $50 and $100 for the basic version to $200 for models with push-to-start features. Fobs with what's referred to as a switchblade, which folds up when not in use, typically cost more to replace. The keys are equipped with shanks that retract into the fob, which then can be released at the touch of a button whenever needed. They are much more secure than standard keys, making them a great alternative for those who need an extra key to use for valet. The cost of changing these keys can range between $100-$300, depending on the vehicle and the type of key. They are lighter and easier to use than the crank keys of the past which were difficult, heavy and hazardous to use. They are also much more difficult to steal as they are cylindrical, a feature that can prevent the use of key-duplicate devices used by criminals to create illegal copies of the keys to your car. The keys are entirely electronic and communicate electronically to open doors and start the engine. Some keys are even able to do this without having to be removed 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 In contrast to mechanical keys, transponder keys contain a chip within them that relays a radio frequency signal to the car when it is put into the ignition. The computer system in the vehicle scans the signal to determine if the serial number matches that of the key. If it is, the vehicle will allow the key unlock the door and to start the engine. The concept behind this is to prevent car theft by making it more difficult to wire a car and start the engine. Theoretically, this technology is effective however, smart car thieves always find ways to beat it. The chips inside the keys aren't as durable as many would like to think. They can get wiped out quickly, which can lead to the key not functioning at all. The cost of replacing transponder keys can be expensive. The cost of the key blank could be as much as $50. Programming it is an additional cost. This process involves using an exclusive machine that is only available at car dealerships. It is therefore recommended to hire a professional locksmith with the right equipment for programming transponder key. It is also a good idea to have your vehicle's details ready, such as the year model, make, and year. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used, and will save you money in the long run. A locksmith can program a transponder key typically for $150, but for push-to start cars equipped with remote transmitters and key fobs it could cost up to $180. These keys require a specific service that is only done by a locksmith who is certified.