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Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key It is important to be aware of the costs involved when you lose your car keys. You can copy a standard key from any hardware store, while a smart key may require you to go to a dealership or locksmith. But, if the fob is merely damaged and doesn't require reprogramming, there are ways to reduce costs. 1. Type of Key Car keys have a peculiar ability to disappear in strange places. Whether they slip out of your purse during shopping, get wedged between the couch cushions, or fall down the crack in the back seat They're always a difficult to locate. In the past, you could simply go to your local hardware store or auto locksmith and purchase a new replacement. It's expensive to replace a key fob or a remote transmitter if you have an automobile that is equipped with advanced technology. These systems use key fobs and remote transmitters that are tiny electronic devices. They're also packed with circuitry, making them expensive to replace in the event of a loss. This is why you should think about purchasing a key fob replacement insurance plan, which covers up to $400 for each lost or stolen key. These plans typically represent only a small fraction of the total replacement costs, and include unlimited replacements for lost or stolen keys, in addition to other benefits like towing and roadside assistance. The kind of key you're using also impacts the cost, with some types being more costly to replace than others. Basic metal keys without a key fob, for example are fairly inexpensive, since they're mechanical, and can be replaced by locksmiths or mechanics who are professionals. However, if the key is equipped with a transponder chip, it'll require specialized equipment to duplicate. These devices are typically accessible through dealerships or car manufacturers, and could be a major factor in the overall cost. Laser cut keys are a different aspect that can raise the cost of replacing a car key, as these are typically thicker than regular car keys. They are made of metal that is then molded into an exact shape, then cut with lasers that are precise to ensure an exact fit. 2. Key Fob The loss of your car keys used to be a minor issue. A car dealer or locksmith could sell you a replacement key which was probably affordable. However as automobiles have evolved in terms of technology and so have keys, which means replacing a lost key could be more expensive than it was in the past. In the 1990s, key fobs were widely used to lock and unlock the vehicle without requiring an actual car key. These small plastic fobs have an electronic button that, when it is pressed by the user signals the onboard computer to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some have a button to activate the alarm system in the vehicle or open the trunk. An automotive locksmith can cut a key without a remote for the cost of a small fee. content is the same as those that were made prior to 1990. Some locksmiths will be able to replace the fob that was lost while they wait. It can be more expensive to replace a fob that contains a computer chip or transponder as opposed to an old-fashioned one. Reprogramming and pairing them could cost upwards of $200 and are only accessible through the original dealer of the car. Many businesses that deal with cars, such as auto repair shops and dealerships might have a large number of spare fobs. Some are available to the public, whereas others require specialized equipment or technical skills to program. This is not something that the average consumer can do. It is recommended to keep a spare key in your wallet or purse. You can also include GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your policy to make it simpler if you require it. 3. Laser Cut Keys Unlike traditional mechanical keys, laser-cut keys have more ridges and grooves. They make them harder for thieves in cars to duplicate. The blades of the key have slits on both sides which allow keys to be inserted into the ignition cylinder and door lock from either side. They are the most popular kind of car keys in circulation these days. They are more popular than key fobs, because they provide more security and convenience. It is crucial that the place cutting keys has the right equipment. If not, you'll end up with a key that does not perform as expected. Be aware of the quality of the blade, as low-quality blades can damage the key cutting machine or even break inside your ignition cylinder. The locksmith will need your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a key using lasers. Once they have this information, they will run it through a computer system to get the specifications of your specific car. Then, they'll employ the CNC to cut the key to these specifications. They require specialized machinery to make, and they are typically only available at dealerships. They are cheaper than traditional key fobs, but they also have the added benefit of being difficult to duplicate. Labor costs for a typical laser-cut all-in-one key can range from $150-$250. These keys need to be programmed by the dealer. They are nevertheless one of the most secure and convenient keys for cars on the market today. 4. Switchblade Keys Modern cars typically have key fobs that are able to lock and unlock doors and start the engine. In contrast to older mechanical keys which work mechanically and are easily duplicated by key cutters or locksmiths the newer keys for cars have transponder chips built in that need to be paired with the vehicle by a dealer or auto locksmith. The fobs are typically more expensive, and range from $50 to $100 for the basic version to $200 for models that have push-to-start features. Fobs with what's referred to as a switchblade, that folds in itself when not in use, typically cost more to replace. They have shanks that retract into the fob and pop out when required. They are much more secure than standard keys, which makes them a great choice for those who require an additional key to use for valet. The cost of changing these keys ranges anywhere from $100 to $300, depending on the car and type of key. Unlike the old crank key, which was heavy, complicated and dangerous to handle keys made of electronic technology are light and easy to handle. These car keys are also much more difficult to steal because they are cylindrical, a feature that helps to prevent the use of key-duplicate devices that are used by criminals to create illicit copies of the keys to your car. These keys that are completely electronic communicate electronically to open doors and start the engine – some are even able to do so without being removed from the driver's pocket. Making changes to these types of keys to cars can be expensive and will typically require a trip to the dealer, which may or may not include a towing cost. 5. Transponder Keys Unlike mechanical keys, transponder keys have a chip in them that relays the radio frequency signal to the car whenever it is placed in the ignition. auto car key replacement of the vehicle analyzes the signal to determine whether the serial number is identical to that of the key. If it does, the car will allow the key to open the door and start the engine. This is done to prevent car thefts by making it more difficult to wire a car hot and to start the engine. In the theory of it, this is efficient but clever car thieves are always finding ways to beat this technology. The chips in these keys aren't as durable as people like to think. They are able to be easily washed out, which could result in the key not functioning. The cost of replacing transponder keys could be high. The key blank itself can cost up to $50 and then you have the additional expense of programming it. This procedure requires a specific machine that's only found at car dealerships. This is why it is advisable to find a locksmith who has the proper equipment to program transponder keys. It is also a good idea to have your vehicle's information ready, including the year model, make, and year. This will ensure that the right key blank is used, which can save you money in the end. A locksmith can typically program the new transponder key for around $150, but it can cost upwards of $180 for cars that are equipped with key fobs or remote transmitters. These keys require a special service that can only be done by a licensed locksmith.