Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
If you lose a car key, you need to be aware of the various costs involved. You can copy a basic key from any hardware store, whereas a smart key may require you to visit a dealership or locksmith.
There are ways to save money on your device if it is damaged but does not need programming.
1. Type of Key
Car keys have the ability to disappear in most unexpected places. Whether they slip out of your purse while shopping, are tucked between the couch cushions or fall down the crack of the back seat, they're always a little difficult to locate. In the past, you could simply pop into your local hardware or auto locksmith store to purchase a replacement.
It can be expensive to replace the key fob or remote transmitter if you drive an automobile with the latest technology. The key fobs or remote transmitters that work with these systems are miniature electronic devices that are packed with circuitry that can make them quite expensive to replace in the event that you lose them.
This is the reason you should consider getting a key fob replacement insurance plan, which covers up to $400 for each lost or stolen key. These plans usually cost less than total cost of replacement, and come with unlimited lost or stolen key replacements and additional benefits like towing coverage and roadside assistance, among other things.
key replacement car of key you have will also affect the cost. Some keys are more expensive to replace. Metal keys that don't have keys with a fob for instance are relatively inexpensive since they're mechanical, and can be replaced by a professional mechanic or locksmith. If your key is equipped with a transponder chip, it'll require special equipment to duplicate. These machines are usually only available through car dealerships or manufacturers, and could be a major contributor to the overall cost.
Laser cut keys can also increase the price of keys for replacement on cars, since they are more substantial. They are made of metal that is molded into an exact shape, and then cut using precision lasers for an exact fit.
2. Key Fob
In the past the loss of your car keys was not a big problem. A locksmith or car dealer could offer you a new key which was probably inexpensive. As cars have advanced in technology and so do their keys. This means that replacing a lost key could be more costly.
Key fobs became popular in the 1990s as an additional feature that allowed car owners to lock and unlock their vehicle without the need for a physical key. These small plastic fobs contain the button that, when pressed, sends a signal to the computer of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some are equipped with buttons that activate the security system of the vehicle or open the trunk.
An automotive locksmith can cut a traditional key without a remote at the cost of a small fee. It's similar to keys produced prior to 1990. Some locksmiths will even replace the fob that was lost while you wait.
It's more costly to replace a fob that has a computer chip or transponder than if it was merely an ordinary one. Reprogramming and pairing them can cost up to $200 and are only accessible through the original dealer of the car.
Many businesses who work with cars such as auto repair shops and car dealerships may have a large number of spare fobs. Some are available to consumers, while others require specialized equipment or technical skills to program. This is not something that the average consumer can do. It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your pocket or purse. You can also include GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your policy to make things even easier in the event of need.
3. Keys Laser Cut Keys
Contrary to traditional mechanical keys laser-cut keys have deeper grooves and ridges. This makes them less prone to car thieves.
They also have slits that are inserted into both sides of the key blades that allow them to be placed into the door or ignition cylinder lock from either direction. These are the most popular car keys available today. They are more popular than key fobs due to their greater security and ease of use.
It is important that the company cutting the keys has the proper equipment. You'll end with keys that don't perform as expected when you don't. Be aware of the quality of the blade, because low-quality blades can damage the key cutting machine or even break within your ignition cylinder.
The locksmith will require your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a key using lasers. Once they have this information, they can run it through a computer system to get the specifications of your specific vehicle. They then utilize a CNC machine to cut the key according to these specifications.
They are generally only available from dealerships. However, they are much less costly than traditional key fobs, and have the added bonus of being extremely difficult to duplicate.
Labor costs for a typical laser-cut all in-one key will likely range between $150 and $250. 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 typically have key fobs that are able to lock and unlock doors and start the engine. These modern keys aren't mechanical keys that can be easily duplicated by locksmiths or key cutters. Instead, they come with transponder chip technology in the. This chip must be paired by an auto locksmith or dealer to the vehicle. The fobs 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 contain what's known as a switchblade, which folds up when not in use. typically cost more to replace. These keys have shanks which retract into the fob and release when required. They are typically more secure than traditional keys, making them a powerful deterrent for thieves. They are also a good alternative for those who require an extra car key to allow valet usage. Keys that are changed can cost anywhere from $100 to $300 depending on the car and the type of key.
The electronic keys are lighter and more user-friendly than the crank keys of the past which were heavy, complicated and hazardous to use. They also make it difficult for thieves to steal them, as they are cylindrical. This prevents the use of key duplicate machines used by criminals to copy your car keys.
The keys are entirely electronic and communicate electronically to open the doors and begin the engine - some can even do this without having to be removed from the pocket of the driver. These types of keys are expensive to replace and will require an appointment with a dealer, which may include a towing cost.
5. Transponder Keys
Transponder keys differ from mechanical keys because they feature a chip that transmits a radio-frequency signal to vehicle when the key is inserted into the ignition. The signal is then read by the car's computer system to determine whether it is in line with the serial number of the key. If it is the serial number, the vehicle will let the key unlock the door and to start the engine. This is done to prevent car thefts by making it harder to wire a car hot and to start the engine.
Theoretically, this technology is effective however, smart car thieves always find ways to beat it. The chips in the keys aren't as long-lasting as some think. They can be destroyed quickly, which can lead to the key not functioning at all.
The cost of replacing transponder keys can be expensive. The cost of the key blank could be as much as $50. vehicle key replacement is an additional expense. This process involves using a specific machine, which is only available at dealerships for cars.
For this reason, it is advisable to find a locksmith who has the appropriate equipment for programming transponder keys. It is also a good idea to have all of your vehicle's information ready, including the year and make, as well as the model. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used, and will save you money over time. A locksmith can program a transponder keys 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 specific service that can only be done by a licensed locksmith.