Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
If you lose your car key, you need to know the different costs involved. You can duplicate a basic key from any hardware store, but a smart key may require you to go to an auto dealer or locksmith.
However, if the device is merely damaged and doesn't require reprogramming there are ways to reduce costs.
1. Type of Key
Car keys have an uncanny ability to disappear in most surprising places. Whether they slip out of your purse during shopping, get wedged between the couch cushions, or fall into the crack in your back seat, they're always a little bit hard to find. In the past, you could simply go to your local hardware or auto locksmith shop to purchase a new.
Nowadays, however, that can be quite costly when you're driving a car equipped with the latest technology, such as push-to-start and key fob technology. The key fobs or remote transmitters used in these systems are tiny electronic devices that are packed with circuitry that could cause them to be expensive to replace in the event that you lose them.
You should therefore consider a key fob insurance plan that covers up to 400 dollars per key that is stolen or lost. These plans usually cost a fraction of the total cost of replacement, and come with unlimited lost or stolen key replacements as well as additional benefits like towing insurance 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. For example, basic keys made of metal with no fob are quite affordable, because they're mechanical and can be replaced by an experienced locksmith or mechanic. If your keys have transponders, you'll require 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 factor that can increase the cost of a replacement car key, because they are typically thicker than regular car keys. They are fashioned from metal that's molded into the desired shape and then cut using lasers that are precise 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 you a replacement key that was likely to be inexpensive. As automobiles have become more technologically advanced, so have their keys. This means that replacing a lost key could be more costly.
In the 1990s, key fobs became popular as a method to unlock and lock a vehicle without using the physical keys of a car. These small plastic fobs have a button which when it is pressed by the user signals the onboard computer to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some include a button that allows you to activate the alarm system of the vehicle or open the trunk.
replacements car key that is not fitted with a fob is similar to the ones made before the '90s, and can be cut by an automotive locksmith for a fee. Some locksmiths can even repair the fob that was lost while you are waiting.
It can be more expensive to replace a fob that contains a transponder or computer chip than if it was merely a traditional one. Reprogramming and pairing these can cost up to $200 and are only available through the original car dealer.
Many businesses who work with cars such as auto repair shops and dealerships may have a large number of spare fobs. Some of these are available to consumers, while others require specialized equipment or technical knowledge to program. This is not something that a typical consumer can do. This is why it's recommended to keep a spare car key in your purse or pocket, and also add GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service to your insurance policy to make it more convenient should you need to use it.
3. Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys
Contrary to traditional mechanical keys laser-cut keys have more ridges and grooves. They are also more difficult for car thieves to duplicate.
They also have slits tooled into both sides of the blade that allow them to be placed into the door or ignition cylinder lock from either direction. They are the most commonly used type of car keys available today. They are more sought-after than traditional key fobs because they offer a higher level of security and comfort.
It is crucial that the shop cutting the keys has the correct equipment. Otherwise, you'll end up with a key that doesn't function properly. It is also important to consider the quality of the knife, because a knife that isn't of the highest quality could harm your key cutting device or cause it to break inside the ignition cylinder.
The locksmith will need your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a laser-cut key. Once they have this information, they can run it through a computer system to retrieve the specifications for your specific vehicle. Then, they'll employ the CNC to cut the key to these specifications.
They are typically only available through dealers. They are however, less costly than traditional key fobs and are also a bonus for being difficult to duplicate.
For an all-in-one key that is laser-cut you'll probably need to pay between $150 and $250 for labor costs. This is due to the fact that these types of key need to be programmed by the dealership. However, they are one of the most secure and practical keys for cars on the market today.
4. Switchblade Keys
Modern cars typically have key fobs that lock and unlock doors as well as start the engine. Unlike older mechanical keys, that operate mechanically and are easily duplicated 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 an auto locksmith. These keys are more expensive. They vary from $50 to $100 for the basic model up to $200 for models with push-to-start functionality.
Fobs with what's referred to as a switchblade key, which folds up when not in use, typically cost more to replace. The keys are equipped with shanks that retract into the fob, and then can be released at the touch of a button whenever needed. They are more secure than standard keys, making them an ideal choice for those who require an extra key to use for valet. The cost of replacing these keys ranges from $100 to $300 depending on the car and the type.
The electronic keys are lighter and more user-friendly than the crank keys of the past which were heavy, complicated and hazardous to use. The car keys also make it harder for thieves to steal them as they are cylindrical. This prevents the use of key-duplicate machines used by criminals to copy your car key.
These electronic keys can open doors and start engines without needing to take them out of their pockets. These keys are expensive to replace and will require an appointment with a dealer, which may include a towing cost.
5. Transponder Keys
In contrast to mechanical keys keys contain a chip within them that transmits the radio frequency signal to the car whenever it is put 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 is the key's serial number, the vehicle will allow keys to unlock the doors and also start the engine. This is done to avoid car thefts by making it more difficult to hot-wire a car and to start the engine.
In theory, this is effective, however, smart car thieves are constantly finding ways to beat this technology. Furthermore, the chips inside these keys aren't as long-lasting as many would like to believe. They can be easily wiped out, resulting in the key not functioning.
The cost of replacing a transponder key can be quite expensive. The cost of the key blank could be as much as $50. Programming it is an additional expense. This procedure requires a specific machine that's only found in car dealerships.
It is recommended to employ locksmiths who have the proper equipment to program transponder keys. It is also a great idea to have your car's information prepared, such as the year, make, and model. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used, which will save you money in the long run. Locksmiths can program a transponder-type key typically for $150, but for push-to-start cars with key fobs and remote transmitters it could cost up to $180. These keys require a specialized programming process that is performed only by a licensed locksmith.