Lost car key, big bill: What motorists need to know

A recent post on the I Love Bryanston community group about a R6,750 bill to replace the lost key of a 2010 Suzuki SX4 prompted a familiar question from motorists: Surely replacing a car key shouldn't cost that much?

According to Dewald Ranft, National Chairman of the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), the reality is that today's vehicle keys are a long way removed from the simple metal keys of the past.

“Many motorists only discover how sophisticated – and potentially expensive – their car key is when they lose or damage it,” says Ranft. “A modern key is not simply something that opens the door. Depending on the vehicle, it can incorporate a remote locking system, transponder technology and electronic coding that allows the vehicle to recognise the key and authorise it to start.”

That technology brings added security, but it can also bring an unpleasant surprise when a key needs to be replaced.

Why can a car key cost so much?

Replacing a modern key may involve more than simply cutting a piece of metal. A replacement may need to be sourced, cut and electronically coded to the vehicle. The process and cost can vary considerably depending on the make, model, year and type of key involved.

“If you are quoted several thousand rand for a replacement, it is worth understanding what you are actually paying for,” says Ranft. “The key itself is only part of the equation. There can be programming, coding and diagnostic work involved, and some vehicles require specialist equipment.”

The situation can become considerably more complicated if all the vehicle's keys have been lost. Depending on the vehicle, additional diagnostic or computer-related work may be required before new keys can be programmed.

“Losing your only key can also mean losing access to your vehicle altogether while the replacement is being arranged. That downtime can be just as frustrating as the cost.”

Don't assume the dealer is your only option

Ranft says motorists should not automatically assume that a vehicle dealership is their only source for key replacement.

“Accredited independent aftermarket workshops, including MIWA-accredited workshops, can provide key-cutting, coding and related diagnostic services for many vehicle makes and models,” he says.

“Independent workshops may also be able to offer motorists a choice between genuine replacement keys and suitable aftermarket alternatives, depending on the vehicle and the owner's requirements. The important thing is to use a reputable workshop with the correct equipment and expertise.”

He cautions motorists against simply choosing the cheapest quote they can find online.

“A car key is part of the vehicle's security system, so this isn't an area where you want to take unnecessary risks. Ask what is included in the price, whether the key is suitable for your specific vehicle and whether programming and coding are included.”
Before you lose your last key

MIWA offers the following advice to motorists:

Don't wait until you have lost your last key. If your vehicle only came with one key, consider having a spare made while you still have a working key. It is generally much easier to deal with a replacement when you still have access to the vehicle and an existing programmed key.

Ask before you agree to the work. Get a clear quotation and establish whether it includes the key, cutting, coding, programming and any diagnostic work that may be required.

A damaged key doesn't always mean a completely new key. Keys can suffer from worn buttons, water damage, cracked casings or damage after being dropped. Depending on the fault, repair or replacement of certain components may be possible.

Shop around. If you are quoted several thousand rand, obtain a second quotation from a reputable independent workshop. Make sure you are comparing like-for-like services and that the replacement will be properly coded to your vehicle.

Check your warranty or service agreement where relevant. If your vehicle is still covered, establish whether using an independent workshop for the particular service has any implications before proceeding.

“Your car key may fit into the palm of your hand, but it can contain a surprising amount of technology,” says Ranft. “The best time to find out what your replacement options are is before you are standing next to your car with no way of starting it.”