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Ten Cost Replacement Car Key Myths That Aren't Always True Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key It's important to know the costs involved if you lose your car keys. You can duplicate a basic key at any hardware store, while the smart key might require you to go to a locksmith or dealership. However, if the fob isn't damaged and doesn't require reprogramming there are ways to cut costs. 1. Type of Key Car keys have a peculiar ability to disappear in strange places. They can be difficult to locate, no matter if they fall out of your purse when you're out shopping, are stuck between your 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 pick up a replacement. It can be expensive to replace the key fob or remote transmitter if you drive an automobile with the latest technology. These systems use remote transmitters and key fobs which are tiny electronic devices. They're also stuffed with circuitry, making them expensive to replace in the event of a loss. This is why you should think about purchasing the replacement of your key fob insurance plan that covers up to $400 per lost or stolen key. These plans typically represent only a small fraction of the 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 have will also affect the cost. Certain keys are more expensive to replace. For example, basic metal keys with no key fob are relatively inexpensive, because they're mechanical, and can be easily replaced by a professional locksmith or mechanic. If your keys have transponders, you'll require special equipment to duplicate it. These machines are usually only accessible through dealerships or car manufacturers, and could be a major driver of the overall cost. Laser cut keys may increase the price of the replacement key for a car, as they are thicker. They are made of metal that's molded into a specific shape and are then cut using precision lasers to ensure a precise fit. 2. car replacement key cost of your car keys was not a big nuisance. A locksmith or car dealer could sell you a replacement key, which was probably relatively affordable. As cars have become more technologically advanced as do their keys. This means that replacing a lost or damaged key could be more costly. Key fobs were popular in the '90s as an extra feature to allow car owners to lock and unlock their vehicles without the need for a physical key. These small plastic fobs contain a 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 of the vehicle or open the trunk. A traditional key with no fob is similar to the ones that were made prior to the '90s and can be cut by an auto locksmith for a small fee. Some locksmiths will repair your lost fob while they wait. It is more expensive to replace a fob that has a transponder or computer chip than if it were an ordinary one. Reprogramming and pairing these can cost upwards of $200 and are only available through the original dealer of the car. Many businesses that deal with cars, such as auto repair shops and dealerships may have a large number of spare fobs. Some of them can be sold to consumers, but certain require specialized equipment and knowledge to make use of, something that is easily accessible to the average consumer. This is why it's always recommended to keep a spare car key in your purse or pocket and also add the GEICO Emergency Roadside Service to your policy to make it even more convenient should you ever need to use it. 3. Laser Cut Keys Keys Laser-cut keys have more ridges, unlike traditional mechanical keys. This makes them more difficult for car thieves to steal. The blades of the key have two slits which allow keys to be inserted into the ignition cylinder and door lock from either side. These are the most popular car keys available today. They are more popular than key fobs, because they offer greater security and ease of use. If you're considering having a laser-cut key made for your car, it's essential to make sure the place that cuts keys has the proper equipment. If not, you'll end up with a key that doesn't function properly. Be aware of the quality of the blade, since low-quality ones can damage the cutting mechanism of the key 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 are able to run the information through a computer to retrieve the specifications of your vehicle. Then, they will employ a CNC to cut the key according to these specifications. These keys require special machinery to make, and they are generally only available through dealerships. However, they are much less costly than traditional key fobs and are also a bonus for being extremely difficult to duplicate. For a typical all-in-one laser-cut key, you'll likely need to pay between $150 and $250 in labor costs. These keys need to be programmed by the dealer. However, they are one of the most secure and convenient keys for cars on the market today. 4. Switchblade Keys Many modern vehicles utilize key fobs to lock and unlock doors, and also turn on the engine. These newer keys are not mechanical keys that are easily duplicated by locksmiths or key cutters. Instead, they feature transponder chip technology built in. The chip has to be paired by an auto locksmith or dealer with the vehicle. The fobs are typically more expensive, ranging from $50 to $100 for the basic model, and up to $200 for models that have push-to-start capabilities. Fobs that have what's known as a switchblade, which folds into itself when not in use. typically cost more to replace. The keys are equipped with shanks that retract into the fob, which can be released at the touch of a button whenever needed. They are typically more secure than traditional keys, making them a great deterrent to thieves and a great alternative for those who require an extra car key to allow valet usage. The cost of changing these keys can range from $100 to $300 depending on the car and the type of key. These electronic keys are lighter and easier to use than the crank keys of the past that were heavy, complicated and hazardous to use. These car keys are also much harder to steal because they are cylindrical, a feature that assists in preventing the use of key-duplicate devices used by criminals to create illegal copies of the keys to your car. Electronic keys can open doors and start engines without the driver having to take them out of their pockets. The process of changing these kinds of car keys can be costly and usually require a visit to the dealer which may or not include a towing fee. 5. Transponder Keys In contrast to mechanical keys, transponder keys are equipped with a chip inside them that transmits an audio frequency signal to the car when it is placed in the ignition. The signal is then read by the vehicle's computer system to determine whether it matches the serial number of the key. If it matches, the vehicle will allow the key unlock the door and also start the engine. This is done to prevent car thefts by making it harder to wire a car hot and also to start the engine. In theory, this technology is effective However, clever car thieves are always looking for ways to defeat this technology. In addition, the chips that are in these keys aren't as long-lasting as people would like to believe. They are able to be easily washed out, which can result in the key not functioning. The cost of replacing transponder keys could be high. The key blank can cost upwards of $50 and then you have the cost of having it programmed. This procedure requires a specific machine that is only available at dealerships for cars. It is therefore recommended to find a locksmith professional who has the equipment to program transponder keys. It is also a good 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, which will save you money in the end. Locksmiths can program a transponder key typically for $150, but for push-to start cars equipped with remote transmitters and key fobs it could cost as high as $180. These keys require a specific programming service that can be done only by a locksmith who is certified.