Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
If you lose your car key, it's crucial to understand the various costs that are involved. You can copy a basic key from any hardware store, while the smart key might require you to go to an auto dealer or locksmith.
There are ways to save money on your device if it is not damaged and doesn't require to be reprogrammed.
1. Key Type
Car keys have the ability to disappear from the most unlikely places. They can be lost in your purse while shopping, are tucked between the couch cushions, or fall down the crack in the back seat, they're always a little bit hard to find. In the past, you could just pop into your local hardware store or auto locksmith and purchase a new replacement.
These days, however, that can be an expensive proposition in the case of a vehicle with advanced technology, like key fob technology and push-to-start. Key fobs and remote transmitters used in these systems are tiny electronic devices that are packed with circuitry that can be quite costly to replace in the event that you lose them.
You should therefore consider an insurance plan for your key fob which covers up to 400 dollars per key stolen or lost. These plans typically cover a fraction of cost of replacement, and include unlimited replacements for lost or stolen keys, as well as additional benefits like towing and roadside assistance.
The type of key that you own will also impact the cost. Certain keys are more expensive to replace. Simple metal keys that do not have keys with a fob for instance, are relatively cheap, because they're mechanical and can be replaced by locksmiths or mechanics who are professionals. If your key has a transponder, you'll need an equipment that is specifically designed to duplicate it. These devices are typically accessible through dealerships or car manufacturers, and could be a major factor in the total cost.
Laser cut keys are yet another aspect that can raise the cost of a replacement car key, because they are generally thicker than regular car keys. They are fashioned from metal that is molded into an exact shape, and then cut with lasers to ensure a precise fit.
2. Key Fob
In the past lost car keys was a problem. A car dealer or locksmith could sell you a replacement key, which was probably relatively cheap. As cars have become more technologically advanced as do their keys. This means that replacing a lost key can be more costly.
In the 1990s, key fobs became popularized as a way to unlock and lock the vehicle without requiring the physical keys of a car. The small plastic fobs have a button that, when pressed, signals to the onboard computer of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some of them have buttons that trigger the security system of the vehicle or unlock the trunk.
A traditional key without a fob is similar to the ones that were made prior to the '90s and can be cut by an auto locksmith for a fee. Some locksmiths will repair your lost fob while they wait.
It can be more expensive to replace a fob that contains a transponder or computer chip than if it were an old-fashioned one. Reprogramming and pairing them can cost up to $200 and are only accessible through the original car dealer.
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 of these are available to the public, whereas others require special equipment or technical knowledge to program. car key replacements is not something that the average person can do. This is why it's always recommended to keep a spare car key in your purse or pocket and also add GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service to your policy to make it even more convenient in the event that you need to use it.
3. Laser Cut Keys
In contrast to traditional mechanical keys laser-cut keys feature deeper grooves and ridges. This makes them more difficult for car thieves.
The blades of the key have cut-outs on both sides that allow the key to be put into the ignition cylinder as well as the door lock from either side. These are the most well-known car keys on the market today. They are more popular than key fobs, because they provide more security and convenience.
If you're interested in having a laser-cut key made for your vehicle, it's essential to make sure the place that cuts keys has the appropriate equipment. You'll get an unusable key that doesn't function properly in the event that you don't. You must also be aware of the quality of the blade, because poor quality blades can cause damage to the cutting mechanism of the key or even break within your ignition cylinder.
To cut a key using lasers, the locksmith will need to have your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have your VIN, they can run the information through a computer in order to determine the specifications of your car. They will then employ a CNC to cut the key to these specifications.
These keys require special machinery to make, and they are usually only available at dealerships. However, they are less costly than traditional key fobs and also have the benefit of being hard to duplicate.
For an all-in-one key that is laser-cut you'll be required to shell out between $150 and $250 for labor costs. The keys must be programmed by the dealer. They remain among the most secure and convenient keys for cars that are available today.
4. Switchblade Keys
Modern cars usually have key fobs that are able to lock and unlock doors and start the engine. These newer keys are not mechanical keys that can be easily duplicated by locksmiths and key cutters. Instead, they have transponder chip technology built in. The chip must be connected by an auto locksmith or dealer with the vehicle. These keys are typically more expensive, and range from $50 to $100 for the basic version to $200 for models that have push-to-start features.
Fobs that have what's known as a switchblade key, which folds into itself when not in use. typically cost more to replace. They have shanks that retract into the fob, and then pops out at the push of a button when needed. They are typically more secure than traditional keys, making them a great deterrent for thieves and a great alternative for those in need of an extra car key for valet use. The cost of changing these keys varies from $100 to $300, depending on the vehicle and the type of key.
These electronic keys are lighter and simpler to use than the crank keys of the past which were extremely heavy, complicated and hazardous to use. The keys for cars are much harder to steal since 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 key.
Electronic keys can open doors and start engines without needing to take them out of their pockets. Making changes to these types of keys for cars can be costly and usually require a visit to the dealership which may or not include a towing cost.
5. Transponder Keys
In contrast to mechanical keys keys are equipped with a chip inside them that transmits an audio frequency signal to the car whenever it is placed in the ignition. The computer system of the vehicle reads the signal to determine whether the serial number matches that of the key. If it does, the vehicle will allow the key to unlock the door and begin the engine. This is done to avoid car thefts by making it more difficult to hot-wire a car and also to start the engine.
Theoretically, this technology is effective, but smart car thieves constantly find ways to defeat it. Additionally, the chips in these keys aren't as long-lasting as people would like to believe. They are easily cleaned out, resulting in the key not functioning.
Transponder key replacement car can be very expensive. The key blank can cost as much as $50. Programming it is an additional expense. This procedure requires a specific machine that's only available in dealerships for cars.
It is recommended to employ a professional locksmith who has the necessary equipment to program transponder keys. It is also recommended to keep all of the information for your vehicle including the year, make and model. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used, and will save you money over time. Locksmiths can program a transponder key typically for $150, however for push-to-start cars with key fobs and remote transmitters, it could cost up to $180. These keys require a specialized service that is only done by a licensed locksmith.