Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
When you lose a car key, you need to be aware of the various costs that are involved. You can copy a standard key at any hardware store, whereas the smart key might require you to visit a locksmith or dealership.
However, if the device isn't damaged and does not require reprogramming, there are ways to cut costs.
1. Type of Key
Car keys have the bizarre ability to disappear in unexpected places. They can be hard to locate, whether they slip out of your pocket while shopping, get stuck between the sofa cushions or fall into a crack in the back of your car. In the past, you could simply visit your local hardware or auto locksmith shop to purchase a new.
It's expensive to replace a key fob or a remote transmitter if you drive an automobile with the latest technology. Key fobs and remote transmitters that work with these systems are tiny electronic devices that are packed with circuitry that can make them quite expensive to replace in the event that you lose them.
This is the reason you should think about purchasing a key fob replacement insurance plan, which covers up to $400 for each lost or stolen key. These plans usually cost a fraction of the total cost of replacement, and come with unlimited key replacements for lost or stolen keys and additional benefits such as towing coverage and roadside assistance, among other things.
The type of key that you own will also impact the cost. Some keys are more expensive to replace. Simple metal keys that do not have key fobs, for example are fairly inexpensive, because they're mechanical and can be replaced by locksmiths or mechanics who are professionals. However, if your key has transponder chips, it will require specialized equipment to copy. These devices are typically available at dealerships or car manufacturers and can be a major contributor to the overall cost.
Laser cut keys are another factor that can increase the cost of a replacement car key , since they are typically thicker than regular car keys. They are made from metal that is molded to an exact shape, and then are cut using precision lasers for an exact fit.
2. Key Fob
Not too long ago the loss of your car keys was just a problem. A locksmith or car dealer could offer you a new key, which was probably relatively inexpensive. However since automobiles have become more technologically advanced and so have keys, and that means replacing a lost key can be more expensive than it was in the past.
In the 1990s, key fobs became widely used to lock and unlock vehicles without the use of the physical keys of a car. These tiny plastic keys have an electronic button that when it is pressed by the user sends a signal to the computer onboard to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some are equipped with buttons that activate the security system of the vehicle or unlock the trunk.
A locksmith for cars can cut traditional keys without a remote at the cost of a small fee. This is the same as those that were made prior to 1990. Some locksmiths can even replace the fob that was lost while you are waiting.
It's more expensive to replace a fob with a transponder or computer chip than if it were a traditional one. These can cost upwards of $200 to reprogram and connect to the new car and are usually only available through the dealer who sold the original car.
Many companies that deal with vehicles, such as auto repair shops, car dealerships and salvage yards could end having a lot of spare fobs that aren't attached to a particular vehicle. Some are available to consumers, while others require specialized equipment or technical expertise to program. This isn't something that a typical consumer could do. This is why it's always ideal to keep a spare car key in your pocket or purse, and also add the GEICO Emergency Roadside Service to your insurance policy to make it more convenient should you need to use it.
3. Laser Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys have more ridges in comparison to traditional mechanical keys. They make them harder for thieves in cars to duplicate.
The blades of the key have slits on both sides that allow keys to be inserted into the ignition cylinder as well as the door lock from either side. These are the most common type of car keys available these days. They are more sought-after than traditional key fobs due to the fact that they offer a higher level of security and ease of use.
It is crucial that the company cutting the keys has the right equipment. You'll end with keys that don't function properly when you don't. Be aware of the quality of the blade, because 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-cutted key. Once they have your VIN, they are able to run the information through a computer to retrieve the specifications of your car. They will then use a CNC to cut the key in accordance with these specifications.
These keys require special machinery to create, and are usually only available at dealerships. However, auto replacement key are less expensive than traditional key fobs and also have the benefit of being hard to duplicate.
For a typical all-in-one laser cut key, you'll likely be required to shell out between $150 and $250 in labor costs. These keys need to be programmed by the dealer. But, they are one of the most secure and practical keys for cars available today.
4. Switchblade Keys
A lot of modern cars use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, as well as turn on the engine. These aren't mechanical keys that are easily duplicated by locksmiths and key cutters. Instead, they have transponder chip technology integrated into. This chip must be paired by an auto locksmith or dealer with the vehicle. The fobs are typically more expensive, ranging between $50 and $100 for the basic model, and up to $200 for models with push-to-start features.
Fobs that have what's known as a switchblade, that folds in itself when not in use. generally cost more to replace. These keys have shanks which retract into the fob, and then are released when required. They are generally more secure than standard keys, making them a great deterrent for thieves. They are also a good alternative for those who require an extra car key to allow valet usage. The cost of replacing these keys ranges from $100 to $300 depending on the car and the type.
Unlike the old crank key that was difficult, heavy and dangerous to handle keys made of electronic technology are lighter and easier to use. The keys for cars are much more difficult to steal because they are cylindrical, a feature that can prevent the use of key duplicate devices that are used by criminals to make illegal copies of your car's keys.
Electronic keys can open doors and start engines without having to remove them from their pockets. These keys are expensive to replace and will require an excursion to the dealer, which may include a towing fee.
5. Transponder Keys
Transponder keys differ from mechanical keys in that they have a chip that transmits an audio-frequency signal to the vehicle when the key is put into the ignition. The signal is then analyzed by the car's computer system to determine if it matches the serial number of the key. If it does the serial number, the vehicle will let the key unlock the door and to start the engine. This is done to prevent car thefts by making it difficult 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. Additionally, the chips in these keys are not as durable as people would like to believe. They are easily cleaned out, which could result in the key not functioning.
Transponder key replacement costs can be quite expensive. The cost of the key blank could be up to $50. Programming it is an additional expense. This procedure requires a specific machine that's only found at dealerships for cars.
It is therefore best to hire a professional locksmith who has the necessary equipment for programming transponder key. It is also an excellent idea to have all of the information for your vehicle, 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 in the long run. Locksmiths typically can program an entirely new transponder-based key for around $150, but it can cost upwards of $180 for cars with push-to-start capabilities with remote transmitters or key fobs. These keys require a specific service that is only done by a licensed locksmith.