Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
It's important to know the costs involved if you lose your car keys. automotive key replacement can copy a basic key from any hardware store, but a smart key may require you to go to an auto dealer or locksmith.
There are ways to save money if your device is not damaged and doesn't require reprogramming.
1. Type of Key
Car keys have a peculiar ability to disappear into unexpected places. They can be difficult to locate, no matter if they disappear from your purse when you're out shopping, are stuck between the couch cushions, or fall into the crack in the back seat. In the past, you could pop into your local hardware or auto locksmith store to get a replacement.
Today, however, that can be an expensive proposition in the case of a vehicle that is equipped with modern technology, such as key fob technology and push-to-start. These systems use remote transmitters and key fobs that are tiny electronic devices. They're also loaded with circuitry, which makes them costly to replace in the event of an eventual loss.
This is the reason you should think about purchasing a key fob replacement insurance plan that covers up to $400 per lost or stolen key. automotive car key replacement are usually a fraction of total replacement costs, and provide unlimited replacements for lost or stolen keys, in addition to other 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. For example, basic metal keys that don't have a key fob are quite affordable, since they're mechanical and can be easily replaced by an experienced locksmith or mechanic. If your keys have transponder, you'll need special equipment to duplicate it. These machines are only available from car manufacturers or dealerships and could be a major element in the price.
Laser cut keys are a different factor that could increase the cost of replacing a car key, as these are usually thicker than regular car keys. They are made from 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
In the past lost car keys was not a big inconvenience. A locksmith or car dealer could sell you a new key that was likely to be affordable. However since cars have evolved in terms of technology and so have keys, which means replacing a lost one can be much more expensive than it used to be.
Key fobs were popular in the 90s as an added feature to allow car owners to lock and unlock their vehicles without the need for a physical key. These small plastic fobs have a button which, when pressed by the user, sends a signal to the computer onboard to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some are equipped with buttons that activate the security system in the vehicle or unlock the trunk.
An automotive locksmith can cut a key without a remote for an affordable fee. It's exactly the same as keys that were made prior to 1990. Some locksmiths will replace your lost fob while they are waiting.
Fobs that contain transponders or another computer chip could be more expensive to replace than traditional ones. These can cost upwards of $200 to reprogram and pair with the new car, and they are generally only available through the original dealer.
Many businesses that work with automobiles, including auto repair shops, car dealerships and salvage yards could end with a number of spare fobs not tied to a specific vehicle. Some are available to consumers, while others require special equipment or technical skills to program. This isn't something that the average consumer could do. This is why it's always recommended to keep a spare car key in your purse or pocket, and then add GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service to your policy to make it more convenient should you ever require it.
3. Keys Laser Cut Keys
Unlike traditional mechanical keys, laser-cut keys feature deeper grooves and ridges. They make them harder for car thieves to duplicate.
The key blades have slits on both sides that allow the key to be inserted in the ignition cylinder and door lock from either side. These are the most well-known car keys available today. They are more popular than key fobs because they provide greater security and convenience.
If you're thinking of getting a laser-cut key for your vehicle, it's important to make sure that the place that cuts keys has the proper equipment. You'll end with a key which doesn't work properly if you don't. It is also important to consider the quality of the knife, as a low-quality one can cause damage to your key cutting machine or cause it to crack inside the ignition cylinder.
To cut a key using lasers locksmiths need to have your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have your VIN, they can run the data through a computer to retrieve the specifications of your vehicle. They then utilize the CNC machine to cut the key according to these specifications.
They are generally only available through dealerships. They are however, less costly than traditional key fobs, and have the added bonus 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. The keys must be programmed by the dealer. They are nevertheless one of the most secure and convenient car keys on the market today.
4. Switchblade Keys
A lot of modern cars use key fobs to lock and unlock doors, and also start the engine. Contrary to the older mechanical keys that operate mechanically and are easy to duplicate by key cutters or locksmiths, these newer car keys contain transponder chips which must be linked with the vehicle by a dealer or auto locksmith. These keys are typically more expensive, ranging between $50 and $100 for the basic model, and up to $200 for models that have push-to-start functions.
Fobs that have what's known as a switchblade, that folds in itself when not in use, typically, they cost more to replace. These keys have shanks that retract into the fob, which is released at the push of a button when required. They are typically more secure than standard keys, making them a great deterrent to thieves and a great alternative for those who need an extra car key to allow valet usage. Changing these keys can run anywhere from $100 to $300 based on the car and type of key.
Unlike the old crank key, which was heavy, complicated and dangerous to handle, these electronic keys are lighter and easier to use. They also make it difficult for thieves to steal them since they are cylinder-shaped. This blocks the use of key-duplicate machines used by criminals to copy your car keys.
Electronic keys can open doors and start engines without the driver needing to take them out of their pockets. The process of changing these kinds of keys for cars can be costly and usually require a visit to the dealer and may or may not include a towing charge.
5. Transponder Keys
In contrast to mechanical keys, transponder keys are equipped with a chip inside them that transmits a radio frequency signal to the car when it is placed in the ignition. The signal is then analyzed by the computer system of the vehicle to determine whether it is in line with the serial number of the key. If it does, the vehicle will allow the key to unlock the door and start the engine. This is to stop car thefts by making it harder to wire a car hot and to start the engine.
Theoretically it's possible that this technology will work However, car thieves who are smart constantly find ways to defeat it. The chips inside these keys aren't as durable as people like to believe. They are able to be easily washed out, resulting in the key not working.
The cost of replacing transponder keys could be high. The cost of the key blank could be up to $50. Programming it is an additional expense. This process requires a special machine that's only available in car dealerships.
For this reason, it is recommended to employ locksmiths who have the appropriate equipment for programming transponder keys. It is also a good idea to have your vehicle's information ready, including the year, make, and model. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used and could save you money in the long run. A locksmith can program a transponder-type key typically for $150, however for cars with push-to-start capabilities with key fobs and remote transmitters it could cost as high as $180. These keys require a special programming service that can be done only by a licensed locksmith.