Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
If you lose a car key, you need to know the different costs that are involved. You can copy a standard key from any hardware store, but an electronic key will require you to visit a locksmith or dealership.
However, if the fob isn't damaged and doesn't require to be reprogrammed there are ways to reduce costs.
1. key replacement car of Key
Car keys have the ability to disappear from the most unlikely places. They can be difficult to locate, whether they disappear from your purse when you're out shopping, are stuck between the couch cushions or fall into the crack in the back of your car. In the past, you could go to your local hardware or auto locksmith store to purchase a replacement.
It's costly to replace the key fob or remote transmitter if you have a vehicle that has advanced technology. car key replacements and remote transmitters that work with these systems are tiny electronic devices, and they're packed with electronics that can be quite costly to replace in the event of losing them.
It is recommended to consider an insurance plan for your key fob that will cover up to $400 dollars per key that is stolen or lost. These plans typically cost less than total cost of replacement, and come with unlimited key replacements for lost or stolen keys and additional benefits like towing coverage and roadside assistance, among other things.
The type of key that you own will also impact the cost. Certain keys are more expensive to replace. Metal keys that don't have a key fob for instance are fairly inexpensive, because 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 specialized equipment to copy. These machines are usually only available at dealerships or car manufacturers, and could be a major driver of the overall cost.
Laser cut keys are another factor that could increase the cost of a replacement car key, because they are generally more substantial than regular car keys. They are made of metal that is molded to the desired shape, and then are cut using lasers that are precisely calibrated to ensure the perfect fit.
2. Key Fob
Not too long ago, losing your car keys was not a big problem. You could buy a replacement key from a locksmith shop or a car dealership, and it was likely affordable to purchase it. As automobiles have become more technologically advanced, so have their keys. This means that replacing a lost key could be more costly.
Key fobs became popular during the 1990s as an additional feature that allowed car owners to lock and unlock their car without a physical key. The small plastic fobs have the button that, when pressed, communicates to the computer onboard of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some are equipped with buttons that activate the security system in the vehicle or unlock the trunk.
A key that is not fitted with a fob is similar to those that were made prior to the '90s and can be cut by an auto locksmith for a small fee. Some locksmiths can even replace lost fobs while you wait.
Fobs with a transponder or another chip can be more costly to replace than conventional ones. Reprogramming and pairing them can cost upwards of $200 and are only accessible through the original dealer for cars.
Many companies that deal with cars such as auto repair shops or dealerships may end up with lots of spare fobs. Some are available to consumers, while others require specialized equipment or technical skills to program. This isn't something that a typical consumer can do. This is why it's ideal 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 in the event that you require it.
3. Laser Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys have ridges that are deeper unlike mechanical keys. This makes them harder for car thieves.
They also have slits that are inserted into the sides of the key blade, which allows them to be inserted into the door and the ignition cylinder lock from either direction. These are the most popular car keys on the market today. They are more sought-after than traditional key fobs due to the fact that they provide a higher degree of security and ease of use.
It is essential that the place cutting the keys has the correct equipment. You'll end up with keys that don't work properly if you don't. You should also consider the quality of the knife since a poor quality knife could damage your key cutting machine or cause it to break within the ignition cylinder.
To cut a key using lasers, the locksmith will require your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have this information, they will run it through an electronic system to find the specifications for your specific vehicle. Then, they will use a CNC to cut the key according to these specifications.
They are typically only available through dealerships. They are less expensive than traditional key fobs, but they also have the added benefit of being hard to duplicate.
For an all-in-one key that is laser-cut, you'll likely need to pay between $150 and $250 in labor costs. This is due to the fact that these types of key need to be programmed by the dealership. They are among the most convenient and secure keys for cars available today.
4. Switchblade Keys
Many modern cars use key fobs to lock and unlock doors, as well as start the engine. These newer keys are not mechanical keys that can be duplicated by locksmiths and key cutters. Instead, they come with transponder chip technology integrated into. The chip must be connected by an auto locksmith or dealer with the vehicle. These fobs can be more expensive. They vary between $50 and $100 for the basic model up to $200 for models that include push-to-start functions.
Fobs that have a "switchblade" key that folds over itself when not in use they are typically more expensive to replace. The keys are equipped with shanks that retract into the fob, which then is released at the push of a button whenever needed. They are far more secure than standard keys, making them an ideal choice for those who require an extra key to use as a valet. Changing these keys can run anywhere between $100 and $300, depending on the car and the kind of key.
They are lighter and easier to use than the old crank keys which were difficult, heavy and dangerous to handle. These car keys also make it harder for thieves to steal them as they are cylindrical. This stops the use of key-duplicate machines used by criminals to copy your car keys.
Electronic keys can open doors and start engines without having to remove them from their pockets. Making changes to these types of keys for cars can be expensive and will typically require a trip to the dealer and may or may not include a towing charge.
5. Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are different from mechanical keys because they are equipped with a chip that transmits a radio-frequency signal to vehicle when the key is placed into 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 car will allow the key to unlock the door and start the engine. The purpose behind this is to deter car theft by making it harder to connect a car's hot wire and start the engine.
Theoretically, this technology is effective however, smart car thieves always find ways to beat it. The chips in these keys aren't as durable as many would think. They can be easily wiped out, which could result in the key not functioning.
Transponder key replacement costs can be quite expensive. The key blank itself can cost upwards of $50 and then you have the cost of programming it. This procedure requires an exclusive machine that is only available at car dealerships.
experienced is therefore best to find a locksmith professional who has the necessary tools to program transponder keys. It is also an excellent idea to have all the information for your vehicle including the year and make, as well as the model. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used and can save you money in the long run. Locksmiths typically can program the new transponder key for about $150, however it could cost upwards of $180 for cars that are equipped with remote transmitters or key fobs. These keys require a specific service that is only performed by a certified Locksmith.