Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
If you lose your car key, you need to be aware of the various costs that are involved. You can get a copy of a car key from any hardware store, however a smart key might require you to go to a locksmith or dealer.
There are ways to save money if your device is not damaged and doesn't require to be reprogrammed.
1. Type of Key
Car keys have an uncanny ability to disappear from the most unlikely places. They can be lost in your purse during shopping, or get stuck between the sofa cushions, or fall into the crack in your back seat and are a bit hard to find. In the past, you could simply go to your local hardware store or auto locksmith and pick up a replacement.
It's costly to replace a key fob or a remote transmitter if you own an automobile that is equipped with advanced technology. These systems rely on key fobs and remote transmitters, which are tiny electronic devices. They're also stuffed with circuitry, which makes them costly to replace in the event of an eventual loss.
Consider an insurance plan for your key fob that will cover up to 400 dollars for each key stolen or lost. These plans usually cost less than the total cost of replacement, and come with unlimited lost or stolen key replacements along with additional benefits like towing insurance and roadside assistance, among others.
The type of key that you own will also impact the cost. Certain keys are more expensive to replace. For example, basic metal keys with no key fob are fairly inexpensive because they're mechanical, and can be replaced by a professional locksmith or mechanic. If your key has transponder chips, it will require specialized equipment to copy. These machines are usually only available at dealerships or car manufacturers and can be a major contributor to the overall cost.
Laser cut replacement key for car near me are a different factor that can increase the cost of a replacement car key, because they are typically heavier than regular keys. They are made from metal that's molded into a specific shape and are then cut using precision lasers to ensure a perfect fit.
2. Key Fob
The loss of keys to your car used to be a minor inconvenience. You could get an alternative key from a locksmith or a car dealership, and it was likely affordable to purchase it. However, as cars have evolved in terms of technology and so have keys, which means replacing a lost key can be much more expensive than it was in the past.
Key fobs became popular during the 1990s as an additional feature that allowed car owners to lock and unlock their vehicles without the need for a physical key. The small plastic fobs come with the button that, when it is pressed by the user sends a signal to the computer onboard to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some of them have buttons that trigger the security system in the vehicle or unlock the trunk.
A traditional key without a fob is similar to the ones made before the '90s, and can be cut by an automotive locksmith for a fee. Some locksmiths will be able to replace your lost fob while they are waiting.
Fobs with a transponder or another chip can be more costly to replace than standard ones. They can cost as high as $200 to reprogram and connect to a new vehicle and are typically only available through the dealer who sold the original car.
Many companies that deal with cars, including auto repair shops, car dealerships and salvage yards may end having a lot of spare fobs not tied to a specific vehicle. Some of them are accessible to the general public, while others require special equipment or technical knowledge to program. This isn't something that a typical consumer can do. It is recommended to keep a spare key in your purse or pocket. You can also include GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your policy to make things simpler if you require it.
3. Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser-cut keys have more ridges unlike mechanical keys. They make them harder for thieves in cars to duplicate.
The blades of the key have two slits which allow the key to be put into the ignition cylinder as well as the door lock from either side. They are among the most sought-after car keys on the market today. They are more popular than key fobs, because they provide more security and convenience.
It is important that the place cutting the keys has the right equipment. Otherwise, you'll end up with a key that doesn't perform as expected. Be aware of the quality of the blade, because poor quality blades can cause damage to the key cutting machine or even break inside your ignition cylinder.
The locksmith will require your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a laser-cutted key. Once they have this information, they will run it through a computer system to get the specifications specific to your vehicle. They will then use a CNC machine to cut the key according to these specifications.
These keys require special machinery to make, and they are generally only available through dealerships. They are cheaper than traditional key fobs however, they also have the added benefit of being hard to duplicate.
The cost of labor for a typical laser-cut, all-in-one key could range from $150-$250. This is due to the fact that these types of keys must be programmed at the dealership. But, they are one of the most secure and convenient keys for cars on the market today.
4. Switchblade Keys
Modern cars typically have key fobs that lock and unlock doors as well as 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 built in. The chip has to be paired by an auto locksmith or dealer with the vehicle. The fobs are typically more expensive, ranging between $50-$100 for the basic model, and up to $200 for models with push-to-start features.
Fobs that have the "switchblade" key that folds up on itself when not in use, are usually more expensive to replace. The keys are equipped with shanks that retract into the fob, and then pops out at the push of a button when required. They are more secure than standard keys, making them a great choice for those who require an additional key to use as a valet. The cost of changing these keys varies between $100-$300 depending on the type of vehicle and the type of key.
Contrary to the crank key that was difficult, heavy and dangerous to handle, these electronic keys are lighter and easier to use. These car keys also make it difficult for thieves to steal them, as they are cylindrical. This prevents the use of key duplicate devices used by criminals to copy your car keys.
Electronic keys can open doors and start engines without having to remove them from their pockets. These keys are expensive to replace and will require an appointment with a dealer, which might include a towing fee.
5. Transponder Keys
In contrast to mechanical keys keys have a chip in them that relays the radio frequency signal to the car whenever it is placed in the ignition. The computer system of the vehicle reads the signal to determine whether the serial number is identical to that of the key. If it does the key's serial number, the vehicle will allow the key to unlock the door and also start the engine. The purpose behind this is to prevent 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. The chips in these keys aren't as durable as many would like to think. They can be easily wiped out, resulting in the key not working.
The cost of replacing transponder keys could be high. The cost of the key blank could be as much as $50. Programming it is an additional cost. This requires an exclusive machine that is only available at dealerships for cars.
This is why it is advisable to find locksmiths with the proper equipment to program transponder keys. It is also a good idea to have your vehicle's information ready, including the year model, make, and year. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used, and will save you money over time. Locksmiths typically can program a new transponder key for around $150, however it could cost upwards of $180 for cars with push-to-start capabilities with remote transmitters or key fobs. These keys require a specialized service that can only be done by a locksmith who is certified.