Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
When you lose a car key, it's crucial to understand the various costs involved. You can obtain a copy of a car key at any hardware store, however a smart key might require you to visit a locksmith or dealer.
But, if the fob is damaged but doesn't need changing its programming there are ways to reduce costs.
1. Type of Key
Car keys have an uncanny ability to disappear in the most surprising places. They can be hard to find, whether they fall out of your pocket when you're shopping, are stuck between your couch cushions or fall into the crack in the back of your car. In the past, you could simply pop into your local hardware or auto locksmith store to purchase a replacement.
These days, however, that can be an expensive proposition when you're driving a car with advanced technology, like key fob technology or push-to-start. Key fobs or remote transmitters that are used with these systems are tiny electronic devices, and they're packed with circuitry that could make them quite expensive to replace if you lose them.
You should therefore consider an insurance plan for your key fob that will cover up to 400 dollars for each key lost or stolen. These plans typically cost a fraction of the total cost of replacement and offer 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 have will also affect the cost. Some keys are more expensive to replace. For instance, basic keys made of metal with no fob are quite affordable, since they're mechanical and can be replaced by an expert locksmith or mechanic. If your keys have a transponder, you'll need special equipment to duplicate it. These devices are available from car dealerships or manufacturers and could be a major factor in the cost.
Laser cut keys are yet another aspect that can raise the cost of a replacement car key, since they are generally thicker than regular car keys. They are made of metal that is molded to the desired shape, and then are cut using precision lasers for an exact fit.
2. Key Fob
In the past lost car keys was a inconvenience. A car dealer or locksmith could sell you a new key that was likely to be inexpensive. However, as automobiles have evolved in terms of technology, so too have their keys, and this means that replacing a lost one can be more expensive than it was in the past.
In the 1990s, key fobs became popularized as a way to unlock and lock a vehicle without using the physical keys of a car. These small plastic fobs contain an electronic button that, when pressed, signals to the onboard computer of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some also have a button to activate the alarm system in the vehicle or open the trunk.
A locksmith for cars can cut traditional keys without a remote for a small charge. It's the same as those produced prior to 1990. Some locksmiths will repair your lost fob while they are waiting.
Fobs that contain a transponder or another chip can be more costly to replace than conventional ones. Reprogramming and pairing them can cost as much as $200 and are only accessible through the original dealer of the car.
Many companies that deal with cars such as auto repair shops and car dealerships might have a large number of spare fobs. Some of them can be offered to consumers, however certain require specialized equipment and knowledge to program, which isn't something that's easily accessible to the average consumer. This is why it's best to keep a spare car key in your purse or pocket and add the GEICO Emergency Roadside Service to your policy to make it even more convenient should you ever require it.
3. Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys
Unlike traditional mechanical keys, laser-cut keys have more ridges and grooves. This makes them less prone to car thieves.
They also have slits that are inserted into the sides of the key blade that allow them to be placed into the door or the ignition cylinder lock from either direction. They are the most commonly used kind of car keys that are in circulation today. They are more popular than traditional key fobs due to the fact that they provide a higher level of security and convenience.
It is important that the shop cutting keys has the proper equipment. Otherwise, you'll end with a key that does not function properly. Be aware of the quality of the blade, as low-quality ones can damage the key cutting machine or even break inside your ignition cylinder.
To cut a key using lasers locksmiths will require your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have this information, they can run it through an electronic system to find the specifications specific to your car. Then, they'll use the CNC to cut the key according to these specifications.
They are generally only available from dealerships. They are more affordable than traditional key fobs, but they also have an added benefit of being hard 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. The keys must be programmed by the dealer. They are nevertheless one of the most secure and reliable keys for cars available today.
4. Switchblade Keys
Modern cars usually have key fobs that lock and unlock doors as well as start the engine. These aren't mechanical keys that are easily duplicated by locksmiths and key cutters. Instead, they come with transponder chip technology built in. The chip must be connected by an auto locksmith or dealer to the vehicle. These fobs can be more expensive. They vary from $50-$100 in the basic model, and up to $200 for models that have push-to-start functions.
Fobs that feature a "switchblade" key that folds up on itself when not in use They are generally more expensive to replace. These keys have shanks that retract into the fob, which then is released at the push of a button whenever needed. They are much more secure than standard keys, making them a great choice for those who require an extra key for valet use. Changing these keys can run between $100 and $300 based on the car and the type of key.
These electronic keys are lighter and easier to use than the old crank keys, which were extremely heavy, complicated and hazardous to use. replacement car keys make it more difficult for thieves to steal them since they are cylinder-shaped. This prevents the use of key duplicate devices used by criminals to copy your car key.
Electronic keys can open doors and start engines without the driver having to take them out of their pockets. These keys are expensive to replace and will require an excursion to the dealer, which may include a towing cost.
5. Transponder Keys
In contrast to mechanical keys keys contain a chip within them that transmits an audio frequency signal to the car whenever it is put into the ignition. The computer system in the vehicle scans the signal to determine whether the serial number matches the one on the key. If it matches, the vehicle will allow the key unlock the door and also start the engine. This is to stop car thefts by making it harder to hot-wire a car and also to start the engine.
In theory, this is effective However, the most sophisticated car thieves are always finding ways to beat this technology. The chips in these keys aren't as durable as many would like to believe. They can be easily wiped out, which can result in the key not working.
Transponder key replacement costs can be a significant expense. The cost of the key blank could be as much as $50. Programming it is a cost additional. This process involves using an exclusive machine that is only available at car dealerships.
This is why it is recommended to employ locksmiths with the proper equipment to program transponder keys. It is also a good idea to have your vehicle's information ready, such as the year, make, and model. This will ensure that the right key blank is used, which will save you money in the end. Locksmiths can usually program a new transponder key for about $150, but it may cost as much as $180 for cars that are equipped with remote transmitters or key fobs. These keys require a special programming service that can be performed only by a certified locksmith.