Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
If you lose your car key, you need to understand the various costs involved. You can duplicate a basic key at any hardware store, while an electronic key will require you to visit a dealership or locksmith.
However, if the device isn't damaged and does not require changing its programming there are ways to cut costs.
1. Key Type
Car keys have a strange ability to disappear into unexpected places. They can be difficult to locate, whether they disappear from your pocket when you're shopping, are stuck between the couch cushions, or fall into the crack in the back of your car. In the past, this meant that you could simply go to your local hardware store or auto locksmith and pick up a replacement.
Nowadays however, it can be quite costly when you're driving a car that is equipped with modern technology, such as push-to-start and key fob technology. Key fobs and remote transmitters that are used with these systems are small electronic devices, and are packed with circuitry that could cause them to be expensive to replace in the event that you lose them.
It is recommended to consider the possibility of a key fob insurance policy that covers up to 400 dollars for each key that is stolen or lost. These plans typically cover only a small fraction of the cost of replacement, and offer unlimited replacements for lost or stolen keys as well as other benefits like towing or roadside assistance.
The type of key you have will also affect the cost. Some keys are more expensive to replace. Simple metal keys that do not have a key fob, for example, are relatively cheap, because they're mechanical and can be replaced by locksmiths or mechanics who are professionals. However, if your key has transponder chips, it will require special equipment to duplicate. These machines are usually only available through car dealerships or manufacturers, and could be a major factor in the overall cost.
Laser cut keys are another aspect that can raise the cost of replacing a car key, because they are usually thicker than regular car keys. They are made of metal that is then molded into the desired shape, then cut using lasers that are precisely calibrated to ensure a perfect fit.
2. Key Fob
In the past lost car keys was not a big inconvenience. You could get an alternative key from a locksmith or a car dealership, and it was likely inexpensive to purchase one. As automobiles have become more advanced in technology and so do their keys. This means that replacing a lost key can be more costly.
In the 1990s, key fobs were popular as a method to lock and unlock vehicles without the use of a physical car key. The tiny plastic fobs include a button that, when pressed communicates to the computer onboard of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some also have a button to activate the alarm system of the vehicle or open the trunk.
A traditional key with no fob is similar to the ones made before the '90s, and can be cut by an automotive locksmith for a small fee. Some locksmiths will be able to replace the fob that was lost while they wait.
It is more expensive to replace a fob that has a computer chip or transponder than if it were an old-fashioned one. These can cost upwards of $200 to reprogram and pair with the new car and are usually only available through the dealer who sold the original car.
Many businesses that work with cars, including auto repair shops, car dealerships and salvage yards may end with a number of spare fobs that aren't attached to a particular vehicle. Some are available to the public, whereas others require specialized equipment or technical knowledge 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 add GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service to your policy to make it even more convenient should you ever need to use it.
3. Laser Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys have ridges that are deeper in comparison to traditional mechanical keys. This makes them harder for car thieves to steal.
The key blades have two slits that allow keys to be inserted in the ignition cylinder and door lock from either side. These are the most well-known car keys on the market today. They are more popular than traditional key fobs because they offer a higher level of security and comfort.
If you're thinking of having a laser-cut key made for your car, it's crucial to ensure that the company cutting keys has the proper equipment. If not, you'll end up with a key that doesn't function properly. You must also be aware of the quality of the blade, because low-quality blades can damage the cutting mechanism of the key or even break inside your ignition cylinder.
The locksmith will require your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a laser-cut key. Once they have this information, they can run it through an electronic system to find the specifications for your specific vehicle. They will then employ the CNC to cut the key to these specifications.
They are generally only available through dealers. However, they are less costly than traditional key fobs and are also a bonus for being extremely difficult to duplicate.
The labor costs for a typical laser-cut all in-one key will likely range between $150-$250. This is due to the fact that these types of keys need to be programmed by the dealership. But, they are one of the most secure and reliable car keys on the market today.
4. Switchblade Keys
A lot of modern cars have key fobs that lock and unlock doors, and also turn on the engine. Contrary to the older mechanical keys which are mechanical and easily duplicated by key cutters or locksmiths the newer keys for cars have transponder chips built in that need to be paired with the vehicle by the dealer or auto locksmith. These fobs can be more expensive. They vary from $50-$100 in the basic version up to $200 for models with push-to-start functionality.
vehicle key replacement with the "switchblade" key that folds over itself when not in use they are typically more expensive to replace. These keys have shanks that retract into the fob, which then is released at the push of a button when needed. They are more secure than standard keys, which makes them a great alternative for those who need an additional key to use for valet. Changing these keys can run anywhere between $100 and $300 based on the car and the type of key.
They are lighter and simpler to use than the crank keys of the past that were difficult, heavy and dangerous to handle. The keys for cars are much more difficult to steal because they are cylindrical, a feature that can prevent the use of key duplicate devices used by criminals to make illegal copies of your car's key.
These electronic keys can open doors and start engines without needing to take them out of their pockets. These keys are costly to replace and will require an excursion to the dealer, which may include a towing fee.
5. Transponder Keys
In contrast to mechanical keys keys contain a chip within them that relays the radio frequency signal to the car whenever it is put into the ignition. The computer system of the vehicle reads the signal to determine whether the serial number matches the one on the key. If it does, the car will allow the key to unlock the door and start the engine. The concept behind this is to deter car theft by making it harder to wire a car and start the engine.
Theoretically it is possible that this technology works however, smart car thieves always find ways to beat it. In addition, the chips that are in these types of keys are not as durable as some would like to believe. They can be destroyed easily, which could result in the key not functioning at all.
The cost of replacing a transponder key can be quite expensive. The key blank can cost as much as $50. Programming it is an additional cost. This process requires a special machine that's only available at car dealerships.
It is recommended to hire a professional locksmith who has the necessary equipment to program transponder keys. It is also an excellent idea to have all of the details of your vehicle in order, including the year model, make and year of the vehicle. This will ensure that the right key blank is used and could save you money in the long run. Locksmiths typically can program the new transponder key for around $150, but it can cost up to $180 for cars that are equipped with remote transmitters or key fobs. These keys require a specialized programming service that can be done only by a licensed locksmith.