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Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key If you lose a car key, you need to know the different costs associated with. You can get a copy of a car key at any hardware store, but a smart key may require you to visit a dealer or locksmith. However, if the device 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 from the most surprising places. They can be difficult to find, whether they fall out of your purse when you're out shopping, end up stuck between the couch cushions, or fall into the crack in the back seat. In the past, this meant that you could just pop into your local auto locksmith or hardware store and purchase a new replacement. It's expensive to replace a key fob or remote transmitter if you have an automobile that is equipped with advanced technology. These systems make use of key fobs and remote transmitters which are tiny electronic devices. They're also stuffed with circuitry, making them expensive to replace in the event of a loss. You should therefore consider the possibility of a key fob insurance policy that will cover up to $400 dollars per key lost or stolen. These plans typically cover a fraction of total replacement costs and offer 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 and some keys are more expensive to replace than other. Basic metal keys without key fobs for instance are relatively inexpensive as they're mechanical, and can be replaced by an experienced locksmith or mechanic. If your key has a transponder, you'll need special equipment to duplicate it. These devices are usually available through car dealerships or manufacturers, and could be a major factor in the total cost. Laser cut keys can increase the price of a replacement key for a car, as they are thicker. They are made from metal that is then molded to a specific shape and are then cut using lasers that are precise to ensure a precise fit. 2. Key Fob The loss of keys to your car used to be a minor issue. A car dealer or locksmith would sell you a new key which was probably cheap. As cars have become more technologically advanced, so have their keys. This means that replacing a lost key could be more costly. Key fobs became popular in the 90s as an added feature that allowed car owners to lock and unlock their vehicle without a physical key. The small plastic fobs come with the button that when it is pressed by the user sends a signal to the computer onboard to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some of them have buttons that trigger the security system of the vehicle or open the trunk. An automotive locksmith can cut traditional keys without a remote at the cost of a small fee. It's similar to keys that were made prior to 1990. Some locksmiths can even replace the fob that was lost while you wait. It is more costly to replace a fob that contains a computer chip or transponder as opposed to a traditional one. Reprogramming and pairing these can cost upwards of $200 and are only available from the original dealer for cars. Many companies that deal with cars such as auto repair shops or dealerships might end up with lots of spare fobs. Some of them can be offered to consumers, however certain require specialized equipment and technical knowledge to make use of, something that's readily available to the typical consumer. This is why it's always ideal to keep an extra car key in your pocket or purse, and add GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service to your policy to make it even more convenient should you need to use it. 3. Laser Cut Keys Keys Contrary to traditional mechanical keys laser-cut keys feature deeper ridges and grooves. They are also more difficult for car thieves to duplicate. Key blades feature slits on both sides that allow the key to be put into the ignition cylinder and door lock from either side. automotive key replacement g28carkeys.co.uk are among the most sought-after car keys on the market today. They are more sought-after than traditional keys because they offer a higher level of security and convenience. If you're considering getting a laser-cut key for your car, it's essential to make sure the place that cuts them has the right equipment. You'll end up with an unusable key that doesn't function properly when you don't. You must also be aware of the quality of the blade, since low-quality ones can damage the cutting mechanism of the key or even break the ignition cylinder. The locksmith will need your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a laser-cutted key. Once they have your VIN, they will run the data through a computer in order to determine the specifications of your car. They can then use the CNC machine to cut the key based on these specifications. They are usually only available through dealerships. They are more affordable than traditional key fobs but they also have an added benefit of being hard to duplicate. For a typical all-in-one laser-cut key you'll have to pay between $150 and $250 in labor costs. This is because these types of keys must be programmed by the dealership. They remain among the most convenient and secure keys for cars that are available today. 4. Switchblade Keys A lot of modern cars utilize key fobs to lock and unlock doors, as well as start the engine. Contrary to the older mechanical keys that operate mechanically and are easily duplicated by key cutters or locksmiths These newer car keys have transponder chips built in which must be linked with the vehicle by a dealer or auto locksmith. These keys can be more expensive. They range between $50 and $100 in the basic model, and up to $200 for models that include push-to-start capabilities. Fobs that feature a “switchblade” key that folds over itself when not being used they are typically more expensive to replace. The keys are equipped with shanks that retract into the fob, which is released at the push of a button whenever needed. They are more secure than standard keys, which makes them an ideal choice for those who need an extra key to use for valet. The cost of replacing these keys ranges between $100-$300 depending on the type of vehicle and the type. The electronic keys are lighter and more user-friendly than the crank keys of the past that were extremely heavy, complicated and dangerous to handle. The car keys also make it more difficult for thieves to steal them because they are cylindrical. This stops the use of key duplicate devices used by criminals to copy your car key. The keys are entirely electronic and communicate electronically to open the doors and start the engine. Some keys can even do so without having to be taken from the driver's pocket. These types of keys are costly to replace and will require an excursion to the dealer, which could include a towing fee. 5. Transponder Keys Transponder keys differ from mechanical keys due to the fact that they are equipped with the chip that sends a radio-frequency signal to vehicle when the key is placed into the ignition. The signal is then read by the computer system of the vehicle to determine if it matches the serial number of the key. If it does, the vehicle will allow the key to unlock the door and begin the engine. The purpose behind this is to prevent car theft by making it harder to hot wire a car and start the engine. In theory, this is effective but clever car thieves are always looking for ways to defeat this technology. The chips inside these keys are also not as long-lasting as some like to believe. They can be destroyed easily, which could result in the key not working at all. The cost of replacing transponder keys can be costly. The cost of the key blank could be up to $50. Programming it is a cost additional. This procedure requires a specific machine that's only found at car dealerships. It is recommended to hire a professional locksmith who has the necessary tools to program transponder keys. It is also recommended to have all the details of your vehicle in order including the year model, make and year of the vehicle. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used and can save you money over time. A locksmith can program a transponder keys typically for $150, but for push-to-start cars with remote transmitters and key fobs it could cost up to $180. These keys require a specialized service that can only be done by a locksmith who is certified.