Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
When you lose a car key, you need to know the different costs that are involved. You can obtain a copy of a standard car key at any hardware shop, but a smart key may require you to visit a dealer or locksmith.
But, if the fob is damaged but doesn't require changing its programming, there are ways to reduce costs.
1. Key Type
Car keys have an uncanny ability to disappear from the most unlikely places. They can be hard to find, whether they fall out of your pocket while shopping, are stuck between the couch cushions, or fall into the crack in the back of your car. In the past, you could simply visit your local auto locksmith or hardware store to purchase a replacement.
Nowadays, however, that could be a costly proposition when you're driving a car with advanced technology, like key fob technology or push-to-start. The key fobs or remote transmitters used in these systems are small electronic devices, and they're packed with circuitry that can cause them to be expensive to replace if you lose them.
Consider the possibility of a key fob insurance policy that covers up to $400 dollars per key lost or stolen. These plans usually cost a fraction of the total cost of replacement and offer unlimited key replacements for lost or stolen keys and additional benefits like towing insurance and roadside assistance, among others.
The type of key you're using can also affect the price and some keys are more costly to replace than others. Basic metal keys without a key fob for instance, are relatively cheap, as they're mechanical, and can be replaced by an experienced locksmith or mechanic. If your key has transponder chips, it will require specialized equipment to duplicate. These machines are usually only available through car dealerships or manufacturers, and could be a major driver of the total cost.
Laser cut keys can also increase the price of keys for replacement on a car, as they are more substantial. They are made of metal that is molded into a particular shape, and then are cut with lasers that are precise to ensure a perfect fit.
2. Key Fob
In the past lost car keys was not a big problem. A car dealer or locksmith could sell you a new key that was likely to be inexpensive. As automobiles have become more advanced in technology, so do their keys. This means that replacing a lost key could be more costly.
Key fobs were popular in the 90s as an added feature that allowed car owners to lock and unlock their car without the need for a physical key. The small plastic fobs have an electronic button that, when pressed communicates to the computer onboard of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some have a button to activate the alarm system of the vehicle or open the trunk.
A locksmith for cars can cut a traditional key without a remote for the cost of a small fee. It's exactly the same as keys produced prior to 1990. Some locksmiths will repair the fob that was lost while they are waiting.
It is more costly to replace a fob that has a transponder or computer chip as opposed to an ordinary one. These can cost upwards of $200 to reprogram and connect to a new vehicle and are typically only available through the original dealer.
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 public, whereas others require specialized equipment or technical skills to program. This isn't something that the average person could do. It is recommended to keep an extra key in your wallet or purse. You can also include GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your policy to make it simpler if you require it.
3. Keys Laser Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys have more ridges, unlike traditional mechanical keys. This makes them more difficult for car thieves to steal.
They also have slits inserted into both sides of the blades that allow them to be inserted into the door and ignition cylinder lock from either direction. These are the most well-known car keys available today. They are more popular than key fobs, due to their more security and convenience.
If you're thinking of having a laser-cut key made for your car, it is essential to make sure the company cutting them has the right equipment. Otherwise, you'll end with a key that does not work properly. You must also be aware of the quality of the blade, since low-quality blades can damage the cutting mechanism of the key or even break the ignition cylinder.
The locksmith will require your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a laser-cutted key. Once they have your VIN, they are able to run the data through a computer to retrieve the specifications of your car. They will then use an CNC machine to cut the key according to 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 hard to duplicate.
For a typical all-in-one laser cut key, you'll likely be required to shell out between $150 and $250 for labor costs. This is because these kinds of keys need to be programmed at the dealership. But, they are one of the most secure and practical keys for cars on the market today.
4. Switchblade Keys
A lot of modern cars have key fobs that lock and unlock doors, and start the engine. car key replacements that can be easily duplicated by locksmiths and key cutters. Instead, they feature transponder chip technology in the. The chip has to be paired by an auto locksmith or dealer to the vehicle. These keys are typically more expensive, and range from $50 to $100 for the basic model to $200 for models with push-to-start functions.
Fobs that have what's known as a switchblade key which folds up 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 whenever needed. They are typically more secure than standard keys, which makes them a powerful deterrent for thieves and a great alternative for those in need of an extra car key to allow valet usage. The cost of changing these keys can range between $100-$300 depending on the car and the type of key.
Unlike the old crank key, which was difficult, heavy and dangerous to handle keys made of electronic technology are lightweight and more convenient. The keys for cars are much more difficult to steal as they are cylindrical, which assists in preventing the use of key duplicate devices that are used by criminals to make illegal copies of your car's keys.
Electronic keys can open doors and start engines without the driver needing to take them out of their pockets. These types of keys are costly to replace and will require an appointment with a dealer, which might include a towing charge.
5. Transponder Keys
Transponder keys differ from mechanical keys in that they are equipped with a chip that transmits a radio-frequency signal to the vehicle when the key is placed in the ignition. The signal is then read by the computer system of the vehicle to determine whether it is in line with the serial number of the key. If it matches the key's serial number, the vehicle will allow the key to unlock the door and also start the engine. This is to stop car thefts by making it difficult to wire a car hot and also to start the engine.
In theory, this technology is effective, however, clever car thieves are always trying to outwit this technology. The chips inside the keys aren't as durable as many would think. They can get wiped out easily, which could cause the key to stop working at all.
The cost of replacing transponder keys could be high. The key blank itself could cost upwards of $50 and then you have the cost of having it programmed. This process involves using an exclusive machine that is only available at car dealerships.
This is why it is advisable to find a locksmith who has the proper equipment to program transponder keys. It is also a great idea to have your car's information prepared, such as the year model, make, and year of the vehicle. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used, which can save you money in the end. A locksmith can typically program the new transponder key for about $150, but it can cost up to $180 for push-to-start cars equipped with key fobs or remote transmitters. These keys require a specialized programming service that can be performed only by a certified locksmith.