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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 key. You can copy a standard key at any hardware store, whereas an electronic key will require you to go to an auto dealer or locksmith. However, if the device isn't damaged and does not require changing its programming, there are ways to cut costs. 1. Key Type Car keys have a strange ability to disappear in unexpected places. They can be hard to locate, whether they disappear from your pocket when you're shopping, get stuck between your couch cushions or fall into the 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. It's expensive to replace a key fob or a remote transmitter if you own a vehicle that has advanced technology. The key fobs or remote transmitters used in these systems are small electronic devices that are packed with electronics that can be quite costly to replace in the event that you lose them. It is recommended to consider an insurance plan for your key fob that will cover up to $400 dollars per key lost or stolen. These plans typically cover just a fraction of cost of replacement, and include unlimited replacements for stolen or lost keys, in addition to other benefits such as towing and roadside assistance. The kind of key you're using will also impact the cost as some keys are more costly to replace than others. For instance, simple keys made of metal with no fob are quite affordable, because they're mechanical, and can be easily replaced by a professional locksmith or mechanic. If your key contains transponders, you'll require special equipment to duplicate it. These devices are usually available through car dealerships or manufacturers, and could be a major factor in the overall cost. Laser cut keys are another factor that could increase the cost of a replacement car key, as these are usually thicker than regular car keys. They are made of metal that is then molded into an exact shape, then cut using lasers that are precisely calibrated to ensure a perfect fit. 2. Key Fob In the past lost car keys was a inconvenience. You could get a replacement key from a locksmith shop or a car dealership and it was affordable to purchase it. However since cars have become more technologically advanced and so have keys, and this means that replacing a lost key could be much more expensive than it was in the past. In the 1990s, key fobs were popularized as a way to lock and unlock a vehicle without using a physical car key. The tiny plastic fobs include an electronic button that, when pressed sends a signal to the computer of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some are equipped with buttons that activate the vehicle's security system or open the trunk. A traditional key without a fob is similar to the ones made before the '90s, and can be cut by an auto locksmith for a fee. Some locksmiths will be able to replace the fob that was lost while they are waiting. Fobs that contain a transponder or another chip could be more expensive to replace than traditional ones. Reprogramming and pairing car key replacements can cost up to $200 and are only accessible through the original car dealer. Many businesses that deal with cars, such as auto repair shops and dealerships could end up with a lot of spare fobs. Some of them are accessible to consumers, while others require specialized equipment or technical expertise to program. This isn't something that the average person can do. It's a good idea to keep an extra key in your pocket or purse. You can also add GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your policy to make things even easier if you need it. 3. Laser Cut Keys Keys Contrary to traditional mechanical keys laser-cut keys have deeper ridges and grooves. This makes them harder for car thieves to steal. They also have slits that are inserted into both sides of the blade, which allows them to be placed into the door or the ignition cylinder lock from either direction. They are among the most sought-after car keys on the market today. They are more popular than traditional keys because they provide a higher level of security and convenience. It is essential that the shop cutting keys has the correct equipment. If not, you'll end up with a key that does not function properly. You should also 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 laser-cut key. Once they have your VIN, they will run the information through a computer in order to determine the specifications of your vehicle. Then, they will use the CNC to cut the key according to these specifications. They require specialized machinery to create, and they are usually only available at dealerships. However, they are less costly than traditional key fobs, and also have the benefit of being extremely difficult to duplicate. Labor costs for a typical laser-cut, all-in-one key will likely range between $150 to $250. These keys have to be programmed by the dealer. However, they are one of the most secure and reliable car keys on the market today. 4. Switchblade Keys A lot of modern cars utilize key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, and start the engine. In contrast to older mechanical keys that operate mechanically and are easily duplicated by key cutters or locksmiths These newer car keys have transponder chips built in that must be connected with the vehicle by a dealer or an auto locksmith. The fobs are typically more expensive, and range between $50 and $100 for the basic model, and up to $200 for models with push-to-start features. Fobs with a “switchblade” key that folds up on itself when not in use They are generally more expensive to replace. These keys come with shanks that retract into the fob, and then release when required. They are much more secure than standard keys, making them a great alternative for those who require an additional key to use for valet. Keys that are changed can cost between $100 and $300 based on the car and type of key. Unlike the old crank key, which was difficult, heavy, and dangerous to handle, these electronic keys are lighter and easier to use. These car keys also make it more difficult for thieves to steal them, because they are cylindrical. This blocks the use of key duplicate devices used by criminals to copy your car keys. These keys that are completely electronic communicate electronically to open the doors and begin the engine. Some keys are even able to do so without having to be taken from the pocket of the driver. The process of changing these kinds of car keys can be costly and typically require a trip to the dealership, which may or may not include a towing fee. 5. Transponder Keys Transponder keys are different from mechanical keys in that they have an electronic chip that transmits an audio-frequency signal to the vehicle when the key is placed in the ignition. The computer system in the vehicle analyzes the signal to determine if the serial number matches that of the key. If it matches the serial number, the vehicle will let the key unlock the door and also start the engine. This is done to prevent car thefts by making it harder to hot-wire a car and to start the engine. Theoretically it's possible that this technology will work, but smart car thieves constantly find ways to defeat it. The chips inside these keys aren't as long-lasting as some like to believe. They are prone to being destroyed quickly, which can cause the key to stop functioning at all. The cost of replacing a transponder key can be very expensive. The key blank itself can cost upwards of $50 and then you have the added expense of programming it. This process requires a special machine that's only found at dealerships for cars. This is why it is advisable to find a locksmith who has the appropriate equipment for programming transponder keys. It is also a great idea to have your car's information ready, including the year model, make, and year. This will help ensure that the right key blank is used, which will save you money in the end. A locksmith can program a transponder key typically for $150, however for push-to start cars equipped with key fobs and remote transmitters it could cost as high as $180. These keys require a specific service that is only done by a licensed locksmith.