Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
If you lose a car key, you need to be aware of the various costs involved. You can duplicate a basic key from any hardware store, whereas a smart key may require you to visit a locksmith or dealership.
There are ways to save money on your device if it is not damaged and does not need to be reprogrammed.
1. Type of Key
Car keys have the bizarre ability to disappear into unexpected places. They can be difficult to locate, whether they slip out of your purse when you're out shopping, get stuck between the couch cushions or fall into the crack in the back seat. In the past, you could simply go to your local auto locksmith or hardware store and get a new replacement.
It's costly to replace a key fob or a remote transmitter if you drive a vehicle that has advanced technology. These systems make use of remote transmitters and key fobs, which are tiny electronic devices. They're also stuffed with circuitry, making them costly to replace in the event of an eventual loss.
This is the reason you should consider getting the replacement of your key fob insurance plan that covers up to $400 per lost or stolen key. These plans are usually just a fraction of cost of replacement, and provide unlimited replacements for stolen or lost keys as well as other benefits like towing and roadside assistance.
The kind of key you're using can also affect the price as some keys are more expensive to replace than other. Metal keys that don't have a key fob, for example, are relatively cheap, as 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 machines are usually only available at dealerships or car manufacturers and can be a major factor in the overall cost.
Laser cut keys are another factor that can increase the cost of replacing a car key, since they are typically heavier than regular keys. They are made of metal that is then molded into an exact shape, and then are cut with lasers that are precise to ensure the perfect fit.
2. Key Fob
Not too long ago lost car keys was just a nuisance. A car dealer or locksmith could offer you a new key, which was probably relatively affordable. However since automobiles have become more technologically advanced and so have keys, which means replacing a lost key could be more expensive than it was in the past.
Key fobs were popular in the 90s as an added feature that allowed car owners to lock and unlock their vehicles without the need for a physical key. The tiny plastic fobs include an electronic 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 made before the '90s, and it can be cut by an automotive locksmith for a small fee. Some locksmiths will repair the fob that was lost while they wait.
Fobs that have transponders or another computer chip can be more costly to replace than standard ones. Reprogramming and pairing them can cost up to $200 and are only available from the original dealer of the car.
Many companies that deal with cars, such as auto repair shops and dealerships could end up with lots of spare fobs. Some of these are available to the public, whereas others require specialized equipment or technical expertise to program. This is not something that the average consumer can do. It is recommended to keep an extra key in your pocket or purse. You can also include GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your policy to make things simpler if you require it.
3. Laser Cut Keys Keys
Unlike traditional mechanical keys, laser-cut keys have deeper grooves and ridges. They are also more difficult for car thieves to duplicate.
They also have slits tooled into the sides of the key blade that allow them to be inserted into the door and the ignition cylinder lock in either direction. These are the most common kind of car keys that are in circulation today. They are more popular than key fobs due to their greater security and ease of use.
If you're considering having a laser-cut key made for your car, it is important to make sure that the company cutting them has the right equipment. Otherwise, you'll end up with a key that doesn't function properly. You should also be aware of the quality of the blade, as poor quality blades can cause damage to the cutting mechanism of the key or even break inside your ignition cylinder.
To cut a key using lasers, the locksmith will need to have your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once car key replacements have this information, they can run it through an electronic system to find the specifications for your specific car. Then, they'll employ the CNC to cut the key in accordance with these specifications.
They are generally only available through dealers. They are less expensive than traditional key fobs however, they also have the added benefit of being difficult to duplicate.
The labor costs for a typical laser-cut, all-in-one key could range from $150-$250. These keys need to be programmed by the dealer. But, they are one of the most secure and convenient keys for cars on the market today.
4. Switchblade Keys
A lot of modern cars have key fobs that lock and unlock the doors, as well as turn on the engine. Contrary to the older mechanical keys which are mechanical and easily duplicated by locksmiths or key cutters the newer keys for cars have transponder chips built in which must be linked with the vehicle by a dealer or auto locksmith. These fobs are generally more expensive, ranging from $50 to $100 for the basic version to $200 for models with push-to-start functions.
Fobs that contain 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 pop out when required. They are far more secure than standard keys, which makes them a great choice for those who need an extra key to use as a valet. The cost of changing these keys ranges between $100 and $300 depending on the car and type of key.
Unlike the old crank key, which was difficult, heavy, and dangerous to handle, these electronic keys are lighter and easier to use. They also make it harder for thieves to steal them, because they are cylindrical. This stops the use of key-duplicate machines that criminals use to copy your car keys.
The keys are entirely electronic and communicate electronically to open doors and begin the engine. Some keys can even do so without having to be taken from the pocket of the driver. These keys are costly to replace and will require a trip to the dealer, which may include a towing cost.
5. Transponder Keys
In contrast to mechanical keys keys contain a chip within them that relays a radio frequency signal to the car whenever it is inserted into 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 key's serial number, the vehicle will allow the key to unlock the door and to start the engine. The concept behind this is to prevent car theft by making it harder to hot wire a car and start the engine.
In theory, this is effective However, clever car thieves are always finding ways to beat this technology. The chips inside the keys aren't as durable as people think. They can be easily wiped out, resulting in the key not functioning.
Transponder key replacement costs can be very expensive. The key blank can cost upwards of $50, and then there's the added expense of having it programmed. This requires a special machine that is only available at car dealerships.
This is why it is advisable to find locksmiths with the proper equipment to program transponder keys. It is also an excellent idea to have all your vehicle's information ready, including the year and make, as well as the model. This will ensure that the right key blank is used, which could save you money in the end. A locksmith can typically program an entirely new transponder-based key for about $150, but it can cost up to $180 for cars that are equipped with key fobs or remote transmitters. These keys require a specific programming service that can be done only by a licensed locksmith.