Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
It's important to know the cost involved when you lose your car keys. You can obtain a copy of a standard car key from any hardware store, however a smart key may require you to visit a locksmith or dealer.
There are ways to save money if your fob is damaged but does not need programming.
1. Type of Key
Car keys have the bizarre ability to disappear in strange places. They can be difficult to locate, whether they fall out of your pocket when you're shopping, end up stuck between the couch cushions or fall into the crack in the back of your car. In the past, you could go to your local auto locksmith or hardware store and pick up a replacement.
It can be expensive to replace a key fob or a remote transmitter if you own an automobile that is equipped with advanced technology. Key fobs or remote transmitters that work with these systems are tiny electronic devices that are packed with electronics that can be quite costly to replace in the event that you lose them.
This is why you should consider getting the replacement of your key fob insurance plan that covers up to $400 per lost or stolen key. These plans typically cover a fraction of total replacement costs and offer unlimited replacements for lost or stolen keys as well as other benefits like towing or roadside assistance.
The type of key you're using will also impact the cost, with some types being more costly to replace than others. Metal keys that don't have a key fob for instance, are relatively cheap, since they're mechanical, and can be replaced by an experienced locksmith or mechanic. If your key contains a transponder, you'll need an equipment that is specifically designed to duplicate it. These machines are usually only available at dealerships or car manufacturers and can be a major contributor to the overall cost.
Laser cut keys are yet another factor that can increase the cost of replacing a car key, because they are generally more substantial than regular car keys. They are made of metal that is then molded to the desired shape and then cut using precision lasers to ensure a precise fit.
2. Key Fob
The loss of keys to your car used to be a minor inconvenience. You could get an alternative key from a locksmith or car dealership and it was relatively cheap to do so. As automobiles have become more technologically advanced as have their keys. This means that replacing a lost key can be more expensive.
Key fobs became popular during the 90s as an added feature that allowed car owners to lock and unlock their vehicle without a physical key. These small plastic fobs contain an electronic button that, when pressed sends a signal to the computer of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some also include a button that allows you to activate the vehicle's alarm system or open the trunk.
A traditional key with no fob is similar to the ones made before the '90s, and it can be cut by an automotive locksmith for a small fee. Some locksmiths will be able to replace your fob while they are waiting.
It is more costly to replace a fob that has a computer chip or transponder as opposed to an ordinary one. Reprogramming and pairing them could cost as much as $200 and are only available from the original dealer for cars.
Many companies that deal with cars, such as auto repair shops or dealerships could end up with lots of spare fobs. Some are available to the general public, while others require special equipment or technical knowledge to program. This is not something that the average consumer can do. This is why it's best to keep a spare car key in your pocket or purse, and also add the GEICO Emergency Roadside Service to your policy to make it more convenient in the event that you require it.
3. Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser-cut keys have ridges that are deeper in comparison to traditional mechanical keys. This makes them more difficult for car thieves to steal.
The blades of the key have cut-outs on both sides that permit the key to be put in the ignition cylinder and door lock from either side. These are the most well-known car keys available today. They are more popular than traditional keys because they provide a higher degree of security and ease of use.
It is essential that the shop cutting the keys has the correct equipment. If not, you'll end up with a key that doesn't 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 the ignition cylinder.
To cut a key using lasers locksmiths will need to have your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have this information, they will run it through a computer system to get the specifications of your specific car. They then utilize an CNC machine to cut the key based on these specifications.
They are generally only available through dealerships. They are less expensive than traditional key fobs, but they also have an added benefit of being difficult to duplicate.
For an all-in-one key that is laser-cut, you'll likely have to pay between $150 and $250 for labor costs. This is because these types of key need to be programmed by the dealership. But, they are one of the most secure and practical keys for cars available today.
4. Switchblade Keys
Many modern cars utilize key fobs to lock and unlock doors, and turn on the engine. Contrary to the older mechanical keys which work mechanically and are easily duplicated by key cutters or locksmiths the newer keys for cars contain transponder chips that must be connected with the vehicle by a dealer or auto locksmith. These keys are typically more expensive, ranging between $50 and $100 for the basic version to $200 for models that have push-to-start functions.
Fobs that have what's known as a switchblade key, that folds in itself when not in use, typically, they cost more to replace. They have shanks that retract into the fob, and then release when needed. They are much more secure than standard keys, making them a great choice for those who require an additional key for valet use. The cost of changing these keys can range between $100-$300 depending on the type of vehicle and the type of key.
In contrast to the crank key of the past that was heavy, complicated and dangerous to use keys that are electronic are lightweight and more convenient. The car keys also make it harder for thieves to steal them since they are cylinder-shaped. This stops the use of key duplicate machines used by criminals to copy your car key.
These wholly electronic car keys communicate electronically to open the doors and begin the engine - some are able to do so without having to be taken from the driver's pocket. Making changes to these types of car keys can be costly and typically require a trip to the dealership and may or may not include a towing cost.
5. Transponder Keys
Transponder keys differ from mechanical keys because they are equipped with the chip that sends an audio-frequency signal to the vehicle when the key is placed in the ignition. The computer system of the vehicle analyzes the signal to determine if the serial number matches the one on the key. If it matches, the vehicle will allow keys to unlock the doors and to start the engine. This is done to prevent car thefts by making it more difficult to hot-wire a car and to start the engine.
Theoretically, this technology is effective However, car thieves who are smart always find ways to beat it. Additionally, the chips in these types of keys aren't as long-lasting as many would like to believe. They are easily cleaned out, which can result in the key not functioning.
The cost of replacing a transponder key can be a significant expense. The key blank itself could cost upwards of $50 and then you have the additional expense of programming it. This procedure requires a specific machine that's only available in dealerships for cars.
It is therefore recommended to employ a professional locksmith who has the equipment for programming transponder key. It is also a great idea to have your car's information ready, such as the year model, make, and year. This will help ensure that the right key blank is used, which can save you money in the end. Locksmiths can usually program the new transponder key for around $150, but it may cost upwards of $180 for cars that are equipped with key fobs or remote transmitters. These keys require a specific service that is only done by a locksmith who is certified.