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Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key If you lose your car key, it's important to understand the various costs involved. You can copy a basic key at any hardware store, but an electronic key will require you to go to an auto dealer or locksmith. But, if the fob is merely damaged and does not require changing its programming there are ways to cut costs. 1. Type of Key Car keys have an uncanny ability to disappear in most unexpected places. They can be hard to locate, whether they fall out of your pocket when you're shopping, end up stuck between your couch cushions or fall into a crack in the back of your car. In the past, you could just pop into your local hardware store or auto locksmith and purchase a new replacement. These days however, it can be an expensive proposition when you're driving a car equipped with the latest technology, such as push-to-start and key fob technology. These systems make use of key fobs and remote transmitters which are tiny electronic devices. They're also stuffed with circuitry, which makes them costly to replace in the event of an eventual loss. It is recommended to consider a key fob insurance plan that will cover up to 400 dollars for each key stolen or lost. These plans are usually a fraction of cost of replacement, and offer unlimited replacements for stolen or lost keys, as well as additional benefits like towing and roadside assistance. The type of key that you own will also impact the cost. Some keys are more expensive to replace. For instance, basic metal keys that don't have a key fob are quite affordable, since they're mechanical and can be replaced by an expert locksmith or mechanic. If your key contains a transponder, you'll need an equipment that is specifically designed to duplicate it. These devices are typically available at dealerships or car manufacturers and can be a major driver of the total cost. Laser cut keys may increase the cost of a replacement key for automobiles, as they are thicker. They are made of metal that is then molded to an exact shape, and then cut using precision lasers to ensure a precise fit. 2. Key Fob Losing keys to your car used to be a minor issue. A car dealer or locksmith could sell keys to replace them which was probably affordable. However, as enquiry have evolved in terms of technology and so have keys, and that means replacing a lost one can be a lot more expensive than it was in the past. In the 1990s, key fobs were popular as a method to unlock and lock a vehicle without using the physical keys of a car. These small plastic fobs contain a button that, when pressed, sends a signal to the computer of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some also contain a button that can activate the vehicle's alarm system or open the trunk. A traditional key without a fob is similar to those that were made prior to the '90s and can be cut by an automotive locksmith for a small charge. Some locksmiths will be able to replace your fob while they wait. Fobs that contain transponders or another computer chip could be more expensive to replace than conventional ones. These can cost upwards of $200 to reprogram and pair with a new vehicle and are typically only available through the dealer who sold the original car. Many businesses who work with cars, such as auto repair shops and dealerships might end up with lots of spare fobs. Some of them are accessible to consumers, while others require special equipment or technical expertise to program. This is not something that the average consumer could do. It's a good idea to keep an extra key in your pocket or purse. You can also include GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your insurance policy to make it simpler if you require it. 3. Laser Cut Keys Laser-cut keys have more ridges unlike mechanical keys. These make them more difficult for car thieves to duplicate. They also have slits inserted into both sides of the blade that allow them to be put into the door and the ignition cylinder lock in either direction. These are the most common kind of car keys available these days. They are more sought-after than traditional keys because they offer a higher level of security and convenience. It is crucial that the company cutting the keys has the proper equipment. Otherwise, you'll end up with a key that does not work properly. You must also think about the quality of the knife since a poor quality knife could cause damage to your key cutting machine or cause it to break inside the ignition cylinder. To cut a key using lasers locksmiths will need to have your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have your VIN, they are able to run the data through a computer to retrieve the specifications of your vehicle. They can then use an CNC machine to cut the key according to these specifications. They are typically only available through dealerships. However, they are much less expensive than traditional key fobs and are also a bonus for being extremely difficult to duplicate. The labor costs for a typical laser-cut, all-in-one key could range from $150 and $250. These keys have to be programmed by the dealer. They are nevertheless one of the most secure and convenient keys for cars available today. 4. Switchblade Keys A lot of modern cars have key fobs that lock and unlock doors, as well as turn on the engine. These modern keys aren't mechanical keys that are easily duplicated by locksmiths or key cutters. Instead, they have transponder chip technology built in. This chip must be connected by an auto locksmith or dealer to the vehicle. The fobs are typically more expensive, ranging from $50 to $100 for the basic version to $200 for models with push-to-start features. Fobs that feature the “switchblade” key that folds up on itself when not in use they are typically more expensive to replace. These keys have shanks that retract into the fob, which then can be released at the touch of a button when needed. They are typically more secure than traditional keys, making them a great deterrent to thieves. They are also a good alternative for those who require an extra car key to allow valet usage. The cost of changing these keys varies between $100-$300 depending on the car and the type. Unlike the old crank key, which was difficult, heavy, and dangerous to handle keys that are electronic are lightweight and more convenient. The car keys also make it more difficult for thieves to steal them, since they are cylinder-shaped. This blocks the use of key-duplicate machines that criminals use to copy your car key. The keys are entirely electronic and communicate electronically to open the doors and start the engine. Some are able to do so without being removed from the driver's pocket. Changing these types of car keys can be expensive and will typically require a trip to the dealer which may or not include a towing fee. 5. Transponder Keys In contrast to mechanical keys keys have a chip in them that transmits a radio frequency signal to the car whenever it is placed in the ignition. The signal is then read by the car's computer system to determine whether it matches the serial number of the key. If it does, the vehicle will allow the key to open the door and start the engine. This is to stop car thefts by making it difficult to hot-wire a car and to start the engine. Theoretically it's possible that this technology will work however, smart car thieves always find ways to beat it. Additionally, the chips in these types of keys aren't as long-lasting as many would like to believe. They can get wiped out quickly, which could result in the key not functioning at all. The cost of replacing a transponder key can be quite expensive. The key blank itself could cost as much as $50 and then you have the cost of having it programmed. This process requires a special machine that is only available at car dealerships. It is recommended to employ locksmiths with the appropriate equipment for programming transponder keys. It is also a good idea to have all your vehicle's information ready including the year and make, as well as the model. 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 keys typically for $150, however for push-to start cars equipped with key fobs and remote transmitters, it could cost up to $180. These keys require a specialized programming service that can be done only by a licensed locksmith.