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How to Cut Down on the Cost of a Lost Car Key

A replacement car key purchased from the dealer can be costly. There are ways to reduce the cost.

Much of the price depends on the year, make and model of the vehicle. The latest models often have high-tech transponder chips that have to be paired with the vehicle by a locksmith or dealer.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing your car keys was a simple procedure that typically involved making a simple phone call to locksmiths and a trip to the local gas station. However, as vehicles have become more technologically advanced and so have keys, making them more difficult to replace, and more expensive if you lose one.

The cost of replacing your lost car key is mostly determined by the year, model and model of vehicle. Locksmiths can easily duplicate keys for mechanical vehicles that are older and cost less than buying a replacement key from the dealer, who will need to connect a brand new computer to your vehicle.

The car key fob is an addition that allows you to lock or unlock your doors with no need for an electronic key. Some vehicles that use push-to start can be started using these keys. They are affordable and easily programmable by a professional locksmith. Switchblade and laser cut keys are more complex and require to be linked to the vehicle at a dealer, adding the cost.

Transponder Keys

If your car is newer than a few years, it likely has a chip in the key that communicates with your vehicle when you insert it into the ignition. This is a measure of security that prevents the ignition of your car from being started without your consent. The key should have an approved transponder cut into it to function.

The cost to replace keys that have been stolen or lost is more expensive than standard metal keys because of the additional manufacturing cost of a replacement car key (resources) for the chip that is inside the key. Keys are also more difficult to program so you'll need to visit a dealership or locksmith to purchase a new key.

If you lose your transponder key the best source of assistance is the dealership where you bought your vehicle. The dealership will charge a higher price than if hiring an independent auto locksmith. Additionally, you'll be waiting longer until you get service. If you do not want to wait, a locksmith near you can provide the fastest and most affordable solution.

Key Fobs

Key fobs are an essential part of modern vehicles, providing remote keyless entry and starting. They can be expensive to replace if they are lost or stolen. A replacement fob will cost between $50 and $400, based on the model and the automaker of the vehicle. Additionally, many fobs require reconfiguration, which could add an additional $50 or more to the cost.

A key fob that is standard is a rectangular plastic piece with a button powered by batteries which opens the doors and, in some instances, it starts the engine. The popularity of this type of key increased in the 1990s. This kind of key can be replaced at a lower cost replacement car key than a transponder that requires an extra chip.

You can save money if your key fob simply requires an upgrade in its battery. Most fobs are powered with CR2032 batteries which can be bought at hardware stores or big-box stores for less than $10. You can check your owner's guide or YouTube to see if you can find steps to replace the battery. You can also go to Batteries Plus to get a lower cost alternative to the dealership.

Switchblade Keys

Not long ago, misplacing or losing your car keys wasn't an issue. As automobiles have become more advanced in technology they've become more difficult to replace keys. If your car uses the key fob or transponder key, or a smart key, you may need to call roadside assistance and be towed by a dealership to obtain an alternative.

The type of car key that you are using will determine the cost to replace it. The traditional keys are relatively affordable to replace. They have metal shanks which lock and unlock the ignition.

Key fobs can be used to lock and unlock vehicles from a distance, and are more expensive to replace car key cost than traditional keys. They utilize a wireless system to connect with the vehicle's chip and make it much more difficult for thieves to duplicate key fobs. Some key fobs have the switchblade, which folds into the key fob and then pops out when a button is pressed, similar to knives. This is referred to as "anti-theft" technology and provides an extra layer of security.

Smart Keys

Before the invention of key fobs became widespread, losing keys to your car key cost wasn't that big of issue. It was not difficult to get an alternative key at locksmith shops, hardware stores, and even car dealerships. However, Cost of a replacement car key as cars have become more technologically advanced, so too have their keys, which means they're costlier to replace.

For example, some vehicles have smart keys that permit you to start and unlock the vehicle even if the key is in your pocket. The system recognizes the rolling code on the key and confirms it in milliseconds. This prevents others from using your key's code on a different key to unlock the car and start it.

If you own a more recent model vehicle with a smart key, the best option is to visit your local car dealership. They'll have the latest equipment and will be capable of cutting and programming your new keys on the spot. It will cost more than going to a locksmith, but the service will be faster and more reliable. Be sure to bring the VIN number of your car, which is typically found on the driver's side of the dashboard or on your insurance documents.