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car key replacements of Replacing a Lost Car Key It's important to know the cost involved when you lose your car key. You can copy a standard key at any hardware store, whereas a smart key may require you to visit an auto dealer or locksmith. However, if the fob is damaged but does not require reprogramming, there are ways to reduce costs. 1. Type of Key Car keys have an uncanny ability to disappear in most surprising places. They can be hard to locate, whether they disappear from your pocket when you're shopping, get stuck between the couch cushions, or fall into the crack in the back seat. In the past, you could pop into your local hardware or auto locksmith store to purchase a replacement. It's costly to replace a key fob or a remote transmitter if you drive a vehicle that has advanced technology. The key fobs or remote transmitters that are used with these systems are tiny electronic devices, and they're packed with electronics that can make them quite expensive to replace if you lose them. You should therefore consider an insurance plan for your key fob that covers up to $400 dollars per key that is stolen or lost. These plans typically cover a fraction of total replacement costs, and include unlimited replacements for lost or stolen keys as well as other benefits such as towing and roadside assistance. The type of key you have will also affect the cost. Some keys are more expensive to replace. Basic metal keys without key fobs, for example are fairly inexpensive, since they're mechanical, and can be replaced by a professional mechanic or locksmith. If your key has transponders, you'll require special equipment to duplicate it. These machines are only available from car manufacturers or dealerships and can be a major element in the price. Laser cut keys are another factor that could increase the cost of replacing a car key, as these are usually heavier than regular keys. They are made from metal that's molded into an exact shape, and then cut using lasers that are precise to ensure a perfect fit. 2. Key Fob The loss of keys to your car used be a minor issue. A car dealer or locksmith could offer you a replacement key which was probably affordable. However as automobiles have become more technologically advanced and so have keys, and this means that replacing a lost key can be a lot more expensive than it was in the past. In the 1990s, key fobs became widely used to unlock and lock the vehicle without requiring a physical car key. The small plastic fobs have an electronic button that, when pressed signals to the onboard computer of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some also contain a button that can activate the alarm system of the vehicle or open the trunk. An automotive locksmith can cut traditional keys without a remote for a small charge. It's exactly the same as keys produced prior to 1990. Some locksmiths can even repair the fob that was lost while you wait. It is more costly to replace a fob that contains a computer chip or transponder than if it was merely a traditional one. Reprogramming and pairing them can cost upwards of $200 and are only available through the original car dealer. Many businesses that work with vehicles, such as auto repair shops, car dealerships and salvage yards, could end with a number of spare fobs not tied to a particular vehicle. Some of them could be offered to consumers, however some require special equipment and technical expertise to program, which isn't something that's readily available to the average consumer. This is why it's always best to keep a spare car key in your purse or pocket, and then add the GEICO Emergency Roadside Service to your policy to make it even more convenient in the event that you require it. 3. Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys In contrast to traditional mechanical keys laser-cut keys have more ridges and grooves. They make them harder for thieves in cars to duplicate. They also have slits inserted into the sides of the key blade that allow them to be put into the door and the ignition cylinder lock in either direction. They are the most popular type of car keys in circulation today. They are more popular than key fobs, because they offer greater security and ease of use. It is essential that the company cutting keys has the correct equipment. If not, you'll end up with a key that doesn't function properly. Be aware of the quality of the blade, as low-quality ones can damage the key cutting machine or even break inside your ignition cylinder. To cut vehicle key replacement -cut key locksmiths will need to have your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have this information, they will run it through a computer system to retrieve the specifications specific to your car. Then, they'll use a CNC to cut the key to these specifications. They require specialized equipment to create, and are typically only available at dealerships. They are more affordable than traditional key fobs but they also have an added benefit of being difficult to duplicate. For an all-in-one key that is laser-cut, you'll likely need to pay between $150 and $250 for labor costs. These keys have to be programmed by the dealer. They are still one of the most convenient and secure car keys available today. 4. Switchblade Keys Modern cars usually have key fobs that are able to lock and unlock doors as well as start the engine. In contrast to older mechanical keys that operate mechanically and are easy to duplicate by locksmiths or key cutters the newer keys for cars have transponder chips built in that need to be paired with the vehicle by the dealer or an auto locksmith. These keys are typically more expensive, and range from $50 to $100 for the basic model to $200 for models that have push-to-start capabilities. Fobs with the “switchblade” key that folds over itself when not being used they are typically more expensive to replace. These keys come with shanks that retract into the fob and are released when required. They are much more secure than standard keys, which makes them a great alternative for those who require an additional key to use as a valet. Changing these keys can run anywhere from $100 to $300 depending on the car and kind of key. Contrary to the crank key, which was difficult, heavy and dangerous to use keys that are electronic are light and easy to handle. They also make it 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 needing to take them out of their pockets. These types of keys are expensive to replace and will require a trip to the dealer, which may include a towing fee. 5. Transponder Keys In contrast to mechanical keys keys contain a chip within them that relays an audio frequency signal to the car when it is placed in the ignition. The computer system of the vehicle scans the signal to determine whether the serial number is identical to the one on the key. If it does, the vehicle will allow the key to open the door and begin the engine. The purpose behind this is to stop car theft by making it more difficult to connect a car's hot wire and then start the engine. In the theory of it, this is efficient, however, the most sophisticated car thieves are always looking for ways to defeat this technology. The chips inside these keys are also not as durable as people think. They can get wiped out easily, which could result in the key not functioning at all. Transponder key replacement costs can be a significant expense. The key blank can cost up to $50 and then there's the cost of having it programmed. This process involves using an exclusive machine that is only available at car dealerships. It is therefore best to employ a professional locksmith who has the necessary equipment to program transponder keys. It is also a good idea to have all of your vehicle's information ready including the year and make, as well as the model. This will ensure that the right key blank is used and could save you money in the long run. A locksmith can typically program a new transponder key for about $150, but it may cost upwards of $180 for cars with push-to-start capabilities with remote transmitters or key fobs. These keys require a specialized service that is only performed by a certified Locksmith.