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Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key If you lose a car key, it's crucial to be aware of the various costs associated with. You can get a copy of a basic car key at any hardware store, but the smart key could require you to visit a locksmith or dealer. But, if the fob isn't damaged and does not require changing its programming there are ways to cut costs. 1. Type of Key Car keys have the bizarre ability to disappear into unexpected places. They can be difficult to locate, no matter if they fall out of your purse when you're out shopping, end up stuck between your 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. It's expensive to replace a key fob or remote transmitter if you have a vehicle that has advanced technology. Key fobs and remote transmitters used in these systems are miniature electronic devices, and are packed with electronics that can make them quite expensive to replace if you lose them. You should therefore consider the possibility of a key fob insurance policy which covers up to $400 dollars per key that is stolen or lost. These plans are usually a fraction of total replacement costs, and include unlimited replacements for stolen or lost keys, as well as additional benefits such as towing and roadside assistance. The type of key you're using also impacts the cost as some keys are more expensive to replace than other. 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. If car key replacement near me contains transponders, you'll require special equipment to duplicate it. These devices are typically available through car dealerships or manufacturers and can be a major driver of the total cost. Laser cut keys are a different aspect that can raise the cost of a replacement car key, because they are typically heavier than regular keys. They are made from metal that is molded into the desired shape and then cut with lasers to ensure a perfect fit. 2. Key Fob The loss of keys to your car used be a minor issue. You could buy an alternative key from a locksmith or car dealership, and it was likely relatively cheap to do so. As automobiles have become more technologically advanced as have their keys. This means that replacing a lost key could be more expensive. Key fobs became popular in the 90s as an added feature that allowed car owners to lock and unlock their vehicle without the need for a physical key. The small plastic fobs have an electronic button that, when pressed communicates to the computer onboard of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some of them have buttons that trigger the security system in the vehicle or unlock the trunk. An automotive locksmith can cut a key without a remote for a small charge. This is exactly the same as keys made before 1990. Some locksmiths will be able to replace your lost fob while they are waiting. It can be more expensive to replace a fob with a computer chip or transponder than if it was merely an old-fashioned one. They can cost up to $200 to reprogram and pair with the new car and are usually only available through the original car dealer. Many businesses that deal with cars, such as auto repair shops and car dealerships could end up with a lot of spare fobs. Some of these can be offered to consumers, however some require special equipment and technical knowledge to make use of, something that is easily accessible to the common consumer. This is why it's always recommended to keep an extra car key in your pocket or purse and also add GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service to your policy to make it more convenient should you ever need to use it. 3. Laser Cut Keys In contrast to traditional mechanical keys laser-cut keys feature deeper ridges and grooves. These make them more difficult for thieves in cars to duplicate. They also have slits that are inserted into both sides of the key blades that allow them to be placed into the door or the ignition cylinder lock from either direction. They are the most popular kind of car keys available today. They are more popular than traditional key fobs due to the fact that they provide a higher degree of security and comfort. If you're thinking of having a laser-cut key made for your car, it is important to make sure that the place that cuts them has the right equipment. Otherwise, you'll end with a key that does not work properly. Be aware of the quality of the blade, because low-quality blades can damage the cutting mechanism of the key or even break within your ignition cylinder. To cut a laser-cut key, the locksmith will require your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have this information, they can run it through a computer system to get the specifications for your specific vehicle. Then, they will employ the CNC to cut the key in accordance with these specifications. They require specialized equipment to create, and are typically only available at dealerships. They are less expensive than traditional key fobs but they also have an added benefit of being hard to duplicate. For an all-in-one key that is laser-cut you'll have to pay between $150 and $250 for labor costs. These keys need to be programmed by the dealer. However, they are one of the most secure and practical car keys on the market 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 modern keys aren't mechanical keys that are easily duplicated by locksmiths and key cutters. Instead, they come with transponder chip technology built in. This chip must be connected by an auto locksmith or dealer with the vehicle. These keys can be more expensive. They vary between $50 and $100 in the basic model, and up to $200 for models that include push-to-start functions. Fobs with the “switchblade” key that folds over itself when not in use, are usually more expensive to replace. The keys are equipped with shanks that retract into the fob, and then is released at the push of a button when needed. They are far more secure than standard keys, which makes them a great alternative for those who need an extra key to use as a valet. The cost of replacing these keys ranges between $100 and $300, depending on the vehicle and the type of key. They are lighter and simpler to use than the old crank keys which were extremely heavy, complicated and hazardous to use. These car keys also make it more difficult for thieves to steal them because they are cylindrical. This prevents the use of key-duplicate machines that criminals use to copy your car keys. Electronic keys can open doors and start engines without the driver having to remove them from their pockets. These keys are costly to replace and will require an excursion to the dealer, which might include a towing cost. 5. Transponder Keys Transponder keys are different from mechanical keys in that they have a chip that transmits a radio-frequency signal to the vehicle when the key is put in the ignition. The signal is then analyzed by the vehicle's computer system to determine whether 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. This is done to avoid car thefts by making it difficult to connect a car's hot wire and to start the engine. In theory, this technology is effective but clever car thieves are always looking for ways to defeat this technology. The chips inside these keys aren't as durable as people like to think. They can be destroyed quickly, which could result in the key not working at all. The cost of replacing transponder keys can be costly. The key blank can cost up to $50. Programming it is an additional cost. This procedure requires a specific machine that's only available in car dealerships. It is therefore best to find a locksmith professional who has the equipment to program transponder keys. It is also a great idea to have your vehicle's details prepared, such as the year model, make, and year. This will ensure that the right key blank is used, and will 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 up to $180. These keys require a special programming service that can be done only by a certified locksmith.