Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
If you lose your car key, it's crucial to understand the various costs associated with. You can duplicate a basic key from any hardware store, whereas a smart key may require you to go to a dealership or locksmith.
But, if the fob isn't damaged and doesn't require to be reprogrammed, there are ways to reduce costs.
1. Type of Key
Car keys have an uncanny ability to disappear from the most surprising places. Whether they slip out of your purse while shopping, or get stuck between the couch cushions or fall down the crack in the back seat, they're always a little bit hard to find. In the past, this meant that you could just pop into your local hardware store or auto locksmith and get a new replacement.
Nowadays it can be an expensive proposition if you're driving a vehicle with advanced technology, like key fob technology or push-to-start. These systems use remote transmitters and key fobs which are tiny electronic devices. They're also stuffed with circuitry, making them expensive to replace in the event of the loss.
This is the reason you should consider getting a key fob replacement insurance plan, which covers up to $400 for each lost or stolen key. These plans usually cost less than total cost of replacement, and come with unlimited key replacements in the event of theft or loss along with additional benefits such as towing coverage and roadside assistance, among other things.
The type of key that you have will also affect the cost. Some keys are more expensive to replace. For instance, simple metal keys that don't have a key fob are relatively inexpensive, since they're mechanical and can be replaced by an expert locksmith or mechanic. However, if the key has a transponder chip, it'll require specialized equipment to copy. These machines are available from car manufacturers or dealerships and can be a major factor in the cost.
Laser cut keys are a different aspect that can raise the cost of a replacement car key, because they are typically more substantial than regular car keys. They are made from metal that's molded into the desired shape and then cut with lasers to ensure a perfect fit.
2. Key Fob
In the past the loss of your car keys was a inconvenience. A car dealer or locksmith could sell you a new key, which was probably relatively inexpensive. As cars have become more technologically advanced as do their keys. This means that replacing a lost key could be more expensive.
Key fobs were popular in the '90s as an extra feature that allowed car owners to lock and unlock their car without the need for a physical key. The small plastic fobs come with an electronic button that, when pressed by the user, communicates to the computer in the onboard system to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some have buttons that activate the vehicle's security system or open the trunk.
An automotive locksmith can cut traditional keys without a remote at the cost of a small fee. It's the same as those produced prior to 1990. Some locksmiths can even replace a lost fob while you are waiting.
Fobs that contain a transponder or other computer chip could be more expensive to replace than standard ones. These can cost upwards of $200 to reprogram and connect to a new vehicle and are usually only available through the dealer who sold the original car.
Many companies that deal with cars, such as auto repair shops and car dealerships could have a large number of spare fobs. Some of them can be offered to consumers, however some require special equipment and technical knowledge to program, which isn't something that is easily accessible to the typical consumer. It's best to always keep a spare key in your pocket or purse. You can also add GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your insurance policy to make things easier in the event of need.
3. Laser Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys have ridges that are deeper in comparison to traditional mechanical keys. They make them harder for thieves in cars to duplicate.
The key blades have slits on both sides which allow keys to be inserted into the ignition cylinder as well as the door lock from either side. These are the most well-known car keys available today. They are more popular than key fobs because they provide greater security and ease of use.
If you're interested in getting a laser-cut key for your car, it's crucial to ensure that the place that cuts keys has the appropriate equipment. Otherwise, you'll end up with a key that does not function properly. You must also think about the quality of the knife, since a poor quality knife could damage your key cutting machine or cause it to break inside the ignition cylinder.
To cut a laser-cut key locksmiths will require your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have your VIN, they will run the data through a computer to retrieve the specifications of your vehicle. Then, they will use a CNC to cut the key to these specifications.
They require specialized equipment to make, and they are usually only available at dealerships. They are less expensive than traditional key fobs, however, they also have the added benefit of being difficult to duplicate.
Labor costs for a typical laser-cut all in-one key could range from $150-$250. This is because these kinds of keys need to be programmed at the dealership. But, they are one of the most secure and practical 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 easily duplicated by locksmiths or key cutters These newer car keys have transponder chips built in that need to be paired with the vehicle by the dealer or an auto locksmith. These keys can be more expensive. They vary from $50 to $100 in the basic version up to $200 for models that include push-to-start capabilities.
Fobs that feature the "switchblade" key that folds over itself when not in use They are generally more expensive to replace. The keys are equipped with shanks that retract into the fob, which is released at the push of a button when needed. They are much more secure than standard keys, which makes them a great alternative for those who require an additional key for valet use. The cost of changing these keys ranges anywhere between $100 and $300 depending on the car and type of key.
Contrary to the crank key that was heavy, complicated and dangerous to use keys made of electronic technology are lightweight and more convenient. They also make it more difficult for thieves to steal them, as they are cylindrical. This blocks the use of key-duplicate machines that criminals use to copy your car key.
These electronic keys can open doors and start engines without the driver needing to take them out of their pockets. Changing these types of keys to cars can be costly and generally require a visit to the dealer, which may or may not include a towing fee.
5. Transponder Keys
Unlike mechanical keys, transponder keys have a chip in them that relays an audio frequency signal to the car whenever it is inserted into the ignition. auto car key replacement is then analyzed by the car's computer system to determine whether it matches the serial number of the key. If it does the serial number, the vehicle will let the key unlock the door and to start the engine. The idea behind this is to deter car theft by making it more difficult 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. Furthermore, the chips inside these keys aren't as durable as many would like to believe. They can get wiped out easily, which could cause the key to stop working at all.
The cost of replacing transponder keys could be expensive. The cost of the key blank could be up to $50. Programming it is an additional expense. This procedure requires a specific machine, which is only available at car dealerships.
It is recommended to find a locksmith professional who has the tools to program transponder keys. It is also a good idea to have all of the information for your vehicle including the year model, make and year of the vehicle. This will help ensure that the correct key blank is used, which could save you money in the long run. A locksmith can program a transponder keys typically for $150, but for push-to start cars equipped with key fobs and remote transmitters, it could cost as high as $180. These keys require a special programming service that can be performed only by a locksmith who is certified.