Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
If you lose a car key, you need to know the different costs that are involved. You can copy a basic key from any hardware store, whereas the smart key might require you to go to an auto dealer or locksmith.
However, if the device isn't damaged and doesn't need changing its programming, there are ways to cut costs.
1. Type of Key
Car keys have the bizarre ability to disappear in strange places. If they disappear from your purse while shopping, or get stuck between the couch cushions or fall down the crack in your back seat and are a bit hard to find. In the past, this meant that you could go to 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 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 an eventual loss.
It is recommended to consider an insurance plan for your key fob which covers up to 400 dollars per key that is stolen or lost. These plans typically cover just a fraction of total replacement costs and offer unlimited replacements for lost or stolen keys, as well as additional benefits like towing or roadside assistance.
The type of key you own will also impact the cost. Some keys are more expensive to replace. Basic metal keys without a key fob for instance are relatively inexpensive since they're mechanical, and can be replaced by locksmiths or mechanics who are professionals. However, if your key is equipped with a transponder chip, it'll require specialized equipment to copy. These devices are available from car manufacturers or dealerships and could be a major factor in the cost.
Laser cut keys are another factor that can increase the cost of replacing a car key, because they are usually more substantial than regular car keys. They are made of metal that is molded into an exact shape, and then cut with lasers to ensure a perfect fit.
2. Key Fob
Losing your car keys used to be a minor issue. A car dealer or locksmith would sell keys to replace them, which was probably relatively inexpensive. However as automobiles have become more technologically advanced as well, so have their keys, and this means that replacing a lost one can be more expensive than it was in the past.
Key fobs became popular during the 90s as an added feature to allow car owners to lock and unlock their vehicle without the need for a physical key. The small plastic fobs come with a button which, when it is pressed by the user communicates to the computer in the onboard system to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some have buttons that activate the vehicle's security system or open the trunk.
A traditional key with no fob is akin to those that were made prior to the '90s and it can be cut by an auto locksmith for a fee. Some locksmiths will be able to replace your lost fob while they wait.
Fobs that contain transponders or another computer chip could be more expensive to replace than traditional ones. Reprogramming and pairing them can cost upwards of $200 and are only accessible through the original dealer of the car.
Many businesses who work with cars, such as auto repair shops and dealerships could end up with a lot of spare fobs. Some of them could be sold to consumers, but others require special equipment and technical knowledge to program, which isn't something that is easily accessible to the average consumer. It's best to always keep a spare key in your wallet or purse. You can also include GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your policy to make it easier in the event of need.
3. Laser Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys have ridges that are deeper, unlike traditional mechanical keys. This makes them less prone to car thieves.
The blades of the key have cut-outs on both sides that allow the key 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 in circulation in the present. They are more popular than key fobs due to their more security and convenience.
It is important that the place cutting the keys is equipped with the correct equipment. You'll get an unusable key that doesn't work properly in the event that you don't. You should also be aware of the quality of the blade, as poor quality blades can cause damage to the key cutting machine or even break inside your ignition cylinder.
To cut a key using lasers locksmiths need to have your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have this information, they will run it through an electronic system to find the specifications of your specific vehicle. They then utilize the CNC machine to cut the key according to these specifications.
These keys require special machinery to create, and are typically only available at dealerships. They are cheaper than traditional key fobs, however, they also have the added benefit of being hard to duplicate.
For a typical all-in-one laser cut key you'll probably be required to shell out between $150 and $250 in labor costs. These keys have to be programmed by the dealer. They are still one of the most secure and convenient keys for cars that are available today.
4. Switchblade Keys
Modern cars often use key fobs that can lock and unlock doors and start the engine. Unlike older mechanical keys, which are mechanical and easy to duplicate by key cutters or locksmiths the newer keys for cars come with transponder chips that must be connected with the vehicle by the dealer or auto locksmith. These keys can be more expensive. They range from $50 to $100 in the basic model, and up to $200 for models that include push-to-start functionality.
Fobs with what's referred to as a switchblade key, which folds into itself when not in use. typically, they 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 when required. replacement car key fobs are far more secure than standard keys, which makes them a great choice for those who need an additional key to use as a valet. The cost of changing these keys can range from $100 to $300 depending on the type of vehicle and the type.
They are lighter and more user-friendly than the crank keys of the past which were heavy, complicated and dangerous to handle. The car keys also make it more difficult for thieves to steal them as they are cylindrical. This blocks the use of key-duplicate machines used by criminals to copy your car keys.
The keys are entirely electronic and communicate electronically to open doors and start the engine. Some keys are able to do so without having to be taken from the driver's pocket. These keys are costly to replace and require an appointment with a dealer, which might include a towing charge.
5. Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are different from mechanical keys because they feature the chip that sends a radio-frequency signal to the vehicle when the key is inserted 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 vehicle will allow the key to unlock the door and begin the engine. The purpose behind this is to stop car theft by making it more difficult to connect a car's hot wire and then start the engine.
In the theory of it, this is efficient, however, smart car thieves are constantly trying to outwit this technology. The chips inside these keys aren't as long-lasting as some think. They can be destroyed easily, which could result in the key not working at all.
The cost of replacing transponder keys could be high. The key blank itself can cost as much as $50, and then there's the added expense of programming it. This process involves using a special machine, which is only available at dealerships for cars.
It is recommended to employ a locksmith who has the appropriate equipment for programming transponder keys. It is also recommended to have all the details of your vehicle in order including the year, make and model. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used and could save you money over time. A locksmith can typically program an entirely new transponder-based key for about $150, but it may cost as much as $180 for cars that are equipped with key fobs or remote transmitters. These keys require a special programming service that can be performed only by a licensed locksmith.