Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
It's important to know the costs involved when you lose your car keys. You can duplicate a basic key from any hardware store, but a smart key may require you to visit an auto dealer or locksmith.
But, if the fob isn't damaged and does not require reprogramming there are ways to reduce costs.
1. Type of Key
Car keys have a strange ability to disappear in unexpected places. They can be hard to find, whether they disappear from your pocket while shopping, are stuck between your couch cushions or fall into a crack in the back of your car. In the past, you could go to your local auto locksmith or hardware store and purchase a new replacement.
Today it can be quite costly when you're driving a car equipped with the latest technology, such as key fob technology and push-to-start. Key fobs and remote transmitters used in these systems are miniature electronic devices that are packed with circuitry that can make them quite expensive to replace if you lose them.
This is why you should consider obtaining a key fob replacement insurance plan, which covers up to $400 per lost or stolen key. These plans typically represent only a small fraction of the cost of replacement, and offer unlimited replacements for stolen or lost keys, in addition to other benefits like towing and roadside assistance.
The type of key that you have will also affect the cost. Certain keys are more expensive to replace. For example, basic metal keys with no key fob are quite affordable, since they're mechanical and can be replaced by an expert locksmith or mechanic. If your key is equipped with transponder chips, it will require special equipment to copy. These machines are usually only available at dealerships or car manufacturers, and could be a major driver of the total cost.
Laser cut keys are a different factor that could increase the cost of replacing a car key, because they are generally more substantial than regular car keys. They are made of metal that is then molded into an exact shape, and then cut with lasers that are precise to ensure the perfect fit.
2. Key Fob
In the past lost car keys was a problem. A car dealer or locksmith would sell you a replacement key, which was probably relatively cheap. As cars have become more advanced in technology as 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 to allow car owners to lock and unlock their car without the need for a physical key. The tiny plastic fobs include an electronic button that, when pressed, signals to the onboard computer of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some of them have buttons that trigger the security system in the vehicle or unlock the trunk.
A traditional key with no fob is akin to those made prior to the 1990s, and can be cut by an automotive locksmith for a fee. Some locksmiths will even replace a lost fob while you are waiting.
Fobs that have a transponder or another chip may be more expensive to replace than traditional ones. These can cost upwards of $200 to reprogram and pair with an entirely new vehicle, and they are generally only available through the original dealer.
Many companies that deal with vehicles, such as auto repair shops, car dealerships, and salvage yards could end having a lot of spare fobs that aren't tied to a particular vehicle. Some of these can be sold to consumers, but certain require specialized equipment and technical expertise to program, which isn't something that's easily accessible to the typical consumer. This is why it's always recommended to keep an extra car key in your purse or pocket, and add GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service to your insurance policy to make it more convenient should you ever require it.
3. Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser-cut keys have deeper ridges, unlike traditional mechanical keys. These make them more difficult for car thieves to duplicate.
car key replacement service have slits on both sides that permit keys to be inserted into the ignition cylinder and door lock from either side. They are among the most sought-after car keys available today. They are more popular than traditional key fobs because they offer a higher level of security and comfort.
If you're considering cutting a key using lasers for your car, it's crucial to ensure that the company cutting keys has the proper equipment. Otherwise, you'll end up with a key that doesn't work properly. Be aware of the quality of the blade, since low-quality ones can damage the cutting mechanism of the key 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 your VIN, they can run the information through a computer to find the specifications of your car. Then, they will make use of a CNC to cut the key in accordance with these specifications.
They require specialized equipment to create, and they are generally only available through dealerships. They are cheaper than traditional key fobs, but they also have the added benefit of being difficult to duplicate.
The labor costs for a typical laser-cut all-in-one key could range from $150 and $250. This is because these types of keys need to be programmed at the dealership. But, they are one of the most secure and reliable keys for cars available today.
4. Switchblade Keys
Many modern vehicles use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, and start the engine. Contrary to the older mechanical keys which are mechanical and easy to duplicate by locksmiths or key cutters, these newer car keys have transponder chips built in that need to be paired with the vehicle by a dealer or auto locksmith. These keys can be more expensive. They vary from $50 to $100 in the basic version up to $200 for models with push-to-start functionality.
Fobs with what's referred to as a switchblade, which folds into itself when not in use, typically, they cost more to replace. These keys have shanks that retract into the fob, which then pops out 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 as a valet. Keys that are changed can cost anywhere between $100 and $300 depending on the car and the kind of key.
Unlike the old crank key that was difficult, heavy, and dangerous to handle keys that are electronic are lighter and easier to use. The car keys also make it harder for thieves to steal them since they are cylinder-shaped. This prevents the use of key-duplicate machines used by criminals to copy your car key.
Electronic keys can open doors and start engines without needing to take them out of their pockets. The process of changing these kinds of keys to cars can be costly and generally require a visit to the dealership which may or not include a towing fee.
5. Transponder Keys
In contrast to mechanical keys keys contain a chip within them that transmits a radio frequency signal to the car when it is inserted into the ignition. The signal is then read by the computer system of the vehicle to determine if it matches the serial number of the key. If it does the serial number, the vehicle will let the key to unlock the door and start the engine. The idea behind this is to stop car theft by making it more difficult to wire a car and start the engine.
Theoretically it's possible that this technology will work however, smart car thieves always find ways to beat it. The chips in the keys aren't as durable as many would think. They can be destroyed easily, which could result in the key not working at all.
The cost of replacing transponder keys could be high. The key blank can cost up to $50. Programming it is an additional cost. This procedure requires a special machine, which is only available at dealerships for cars.
It is best to hire a locksmith who has the right equipment to program transponder keys. It is also recommended to keep all of the information for your vehicle, including the year and make, as well as the model. This will ensure that the right key blank is used and can save you money over time. A locksmith can program a transponder key typically for $150, but for push-to-start cars with key fobs and remote transmitters it could cost as high as $180. These keys require a specialized service that can only be done by a locksmith who is certified.