Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
When you lose a car key, it's important to be aware of the various costs associated with. You can duplicate a basic key from any hardware store, whereas an electronic key will require you to go to a locksmith or dealership.
There are ways to save money if your fob is only damaged and doesn't require programming.
1. Key Type
Car keys have a strange ability to disappear in strange places. They can be hard to locate, no matter if they slip out of your pocket while shopping, get stuck between your couch cushions or fall into the crack in the back seat. In the past, you could go to your local hardware store or auto locksmith and pick up a replacement.
Today, however, that could be a costly proposition in the case of a vehicle equipped with the latest technology, such as key fob technology and push-to-start. replace keys or remote transmitters that are used with these systems are miniature electronic devices that are packed with circuitry that can cause them to be expensive to replace in the event of losing them.
It is recommended to consider a key fob insurance plan which covers up to $400 dollars per key that is stolen or lost. These plans typically represent only a small fraction of the cost of replacement, and offer 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 keys made of metal with no fob are fairly inexpensive because they're mechanical, and can be easily replaced by an experienced locksmith or mechanic. If your keys have transponders, you'll require an equipment that is specifically designed to duplicate it. These devices are available from car manufacturers or dealerships and are a significant factor in the cost.
Laser cut keys can also increase the cost of the replacement key for a car, as they are more substantial. They are fashioned from metal that's molded into the desired shape and then cut with lasers to ensure a precise fit.
2. Key Fob
Not too long ago lost car keys was not a big nuisance. A car dealer or locksmith could offer you a replacement key, which was probably relatively cheap. However, as automobiles have become more technologically advanced as well, so have their keys, and this means that replacing a lost one can be more expensive than it was in the past.
Key fobs were popular in the 90s as an added feature to allow car owners to lock and unlock their vehicles without a physical key. The tiny plastic fobs include an electronic button that, when pressed, sends a signal to the computer of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some of them have buttons that trigger the vehicle's security system 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 automotive locksmith for a small fee. Some locksmiths can even repair a lost fob while you wait.
It's more expensive to replace a fob that has a computer chip or transponder as opposed to an ordinary one. Reprogramming and pairing them could cost up to $200 and are only available through the original dealer for cars.
Many businesses who work with cars, such as auto repair shops or dealerships could end up with a lot of spare fobs. Some of these are available to the public, whereas others require specialized equipment or technical skills to program. This isn't something that the average person can do. This is why it's always recommended 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 need to use it.
3. Laser Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys have deeper ridges, unlike traditional mechanical keys. This makes them less prone to car thieves to steal.
Key blades feature cut-outs on both sides which allow the key to be inserted into the ignition cylinder as well as the door lock from either side. They are the most popular type of car keys that are in circulation these days. They are more popular than traditional key fobs due to the fact that they provide a higher degree of security and comfort.
It is important that the place cutting the keys is equipped with the correct equipment. Otherwise, you'll end with a key that does not work properly. You should also be aware of the quality of the blade, since poor quality blades can cause damage to the cutting mechanism of the key or even break the ignition cylinder.
The locksmith will need 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 car. They will then use the CNC to cut the key in accordance with these specifications.
They require specialized machinery to create, and they are typically only available at dealerships. They are more affordable than traditional key fobs but they also have an added benefit of being hard to duplicate.
For a typical all-in-one laser-cut key you'll need to pay between $150 and $250 in labor costs. This is due to the fact that these types of keys must be programmed at the dealership. They are still one of the most secure and convenient keys for cars available today.
4. Switchblade Keys
Modern cars often use key fobs that are able to lock and unlock doors and start the engine. These newer keys are not mechanical keys that can be easily duplicated by locksmiths or key cutters. Instead, they come with transponder chip technology integrated into. The chip has to be paired by an auto locksmith or dealer with the vehicle. These keys can be more expensive. They vary from $50-$100 for the basic model up to $200 for models that have push-to-start functions.
Fobs that have what's known as a switchblade key, which folds up when not in use, typically cost more to replace. The keys are equipped with shanks that retract into the fob, which then pops out at the push of a button when needed. They are usually much safer than traditional keys, which makes them a great deterrent to thieves and a great alternative for those who require an extra car key for valet usage. The cost of changing these keys ranges between $100 and $300 depending on the car and the type of key.
These electronic keys are lighter and more user-friendly than the crank keys of the past, which were difficult, heavy and hazardous to use. The keys for cars are more difficult to steal since they are cylindrical, a feature that helps to prevent the use of key duplicate devices that are used by criminals to create illegal copies of the keys to your car.
These electronic keys can open doors and start engines without the driver having to remove them from their pockets. Making changes to these types of keys for cars could be costly and typically require a trip to the dealer which may or not include a towing cost.
5. Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are different from mechanical keys due to the fact that they have a chip that transmits a radio-frequency signal to vehicle when the key is inserted in the ignition. The signal is then read by the car's computer system to determine if it matches the serial number of the key. If it does, the car will allow the key to unlock the door and start the engine. This is done to prevent car thefts by making it difficult 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. Additionally, the chips in these keys aren't as long-lasting as some would like to believe. They can be destroyed quickly, which can result in the key not working at all.
The cost of replacing transponder keys can be costly. The key blank can cost up to $50. Programming it is an additional expense. This process involves using a special machine, which is only available at car dealerships.
It is recommended to find a locksmith professional with the right equipment for programming transponder key. It is also a good idea to have your car's information prepared, such as the year model, make, and year of the vehicle. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used and can save you money over time. Locksmiths can usually program the new transponder key for about $150, but it can cost up to $180 for cars with push-to-start capabilities with remote transmitters or key fobs. These keys require a specialized service that is only done by a licensed locksmith.