Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
It's important to know the costs involved when you lose your car keys. You can get a copy of a car key from any hardware store, however a smart key might require you to visit a locksmith or dealer.
However, if the device is merely damaged and doesn't require reprogramming there are ways to reduce costs.
1. Type of Key
Car keys have a strange ability to disappear in strange places. They can be difficult to locate, no matter if they fall out of your pocket while shopping, end up stuck between your couch cushions or fall into a crack in the back of your car. In the past, you could visit your local auto locksmith or hardware store to get a replacement.
Nowadays, however, that can be an expensive proposition if you're driving a vehicle with advanced technology, like key fob technology and push-to-start. The key fobs or remote transmitters used in these systems are small electronic devices that are packed with circuitry that can make them quite expensive to replace in the event of losing them.
Consider the possibility of a key fob insurance policy that will cover up to 400 dollars per key lost or stolen. These plans typically represent just a fraction of cost of replacement, and provide unlimited replacements for lost or stolen keys as well as other benefits such as towing and roadside assistance.
The type of key that you own will also impact the cost. Some keys are more expensive to replace. Simple metal keys that do not have a key fob, for example, are relatively cheap, because they're mechanical and can be replaced by locksmiths or mechanics who are professionals. However, if your key has a transponder chip, it'll require specialized equipment to duplicate. These devices are usually available through car dealerships or manufacturers and can be a major factor in the total cost.
Laser cut keys are yet another aspect that can raise the cost of replacing a car key, since they are usually thicker than regular car keys. They are made from metal that is molded into an exact shape, and then cut using lasers that are precise to ensure a perfect fit.
2. Key Fob
Not too long ago, losing your car keys was a inconvenience. You could get keys replacements from a locksmith shop or a car dealership and it was inexpensive to purchase one. However as cars have evolved in terms of technology as well, so have their keys, and that means replacing a lost key could be much more expensive than it used to be.
Key fobs became popular during the 90s as an added feature that allowed car owners to lock and unlock their vehicle without the need for a physical key. These small plastic fobs contain an electronic button that, when pressed signals to the onboard computer of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some also have a button to activate the alarm system in the vehicle or open the trunk.
An automotive locksmith can cut a traditional key without a remote for a small charge. This is exactly the same as keys that were made prior to 1990. Some locksmiths can even replace the fob that was lost while you wait.
It's more costly to replace a fob that has an electronic chip or transponder than if it were an old-fashioned one. Reprogramming and pairing them can cost up to $200 and are only available through the original dealer of the car.
Many companies that deal with cars, such as auto repair shops and car dealerships may have a large number of spare fobs. Some of them can be sold to consumers, but some require special equipment and technical knowledge to make use of, something that's easily accessible to the common consumer. This is why it's always ideal to keep a spare car key in your purse or pocket, and also add GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service to your policy to make it more convenient should you need to use it.
3. Laser Cut Keys Keys
Contrary to traditional mechanical keys laser-cut keys feature deeper grooves and ridges. This makes them less prone to car thieves.
The key blades have two slits that permit keys to be inserted into the ignition cylinder as well as the door lock from either side. These are the most common kind of car keys that are in circulation these days. They are more popular than key fobs because they provide greater security and convenience.
If you're interested in having a laser-cut key made for your car, it's crucial to ensure that the place that cuts them has the right equipment. Otherwise, you'll end up with a key that does not perform as expected. You should also consider the quality of the knife because a knife that isn't of the highest quality could harm your key cutting device or cause it to break inside 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 an electronic system to find the specifications specific to your vehicle. They can then use the CNC machine to cut the key in accordance with these specifications.
They are generally only available through dealerships. However, they are much less expensive than traditional key fobs and are also a bonus for being difficult to duplicate.
For an all-in-one key that is laser-cut, you'll likely need to pay between $150 and $250 for labor costs. The keys must be programmed by the dealer. They are nevertheless one of the most secure and practical car keys on the market today.
4. Switchblade Keys
A lot of modern cars utilize key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, as well as start the engine. In contrast to older mechanical keys which work mechanically and are easy to duplicate by locksmiths or key cutters, these newer car keys come with transponder chips that need to be paired with the vehicle by a dealer or auto locksmith. car key remote replacement near me are generally more expensive, and range between $50-$100 for the basic model to $200 for models that have push-to-start features.
Fobs with what's referred to as a switchblade, that folds in itself when not in use. typically, they cost more to replace. They have shanks that retract into the fob, and then release when required. They are far more secure than standard keys, which makes them a great choice for those who need an extra key to use as a valet. The cost of changing these keys varies between $100 and $300, depending on the vehicle and the type.
Contrary to the crank key that was complex, heavy, and dangerous to handle keys that are electronic are lighter and easier to use. These car keys are also much harder to steal as they are cylindrical, a feature that helps to prevent the use of key duplicate devices used by criminals to create illicit copies of your car's keys.
These keys are electronic and can open doors and start engines without the driver having to take them out of their pockets. The process of changing these kinds of car keys can be expensive and will typically require a trip to the dealership and may or may not include a towing cost.
5. Transponder Keys
Unlike mechanical keys, transponder keys are equipped with a chip inside them that relays the radio frequency signal to the car when it is inserted into the ignition. The computer system in the vehicle reads the signal to determine if the serial number matches the one on the key. If it is the key's serial number, the vehicle will allow the key unlock the door and also start the engine. The idea behind this is to deter car theft by making it harder to wire a car and start the engine.
Theoretically it's possible that this technology will work, but smart car thieves always find ways to beat it. The chips in these keys are also not as long-lasting as some think. They are prone to being destroyed easily, which could lead to the key not functioning at all.
The cost of replacing a transponder key can be a significant expense. The key blank can cost up to $50. Programming it is a cost additional. This process involves using a special machine, which is only available at dealerships for cars.
It is therefore recommended to find a locksmith professional with the right equipment for programming transponder key. car key remote control replacement is also a good idea to have your vehicle's details ready, including the year model, make, and year. This will ensure that the right key blank is used, which can save you money in the long run. A locksmith can typically program a new transponder key for about $150, however it could cost as much as $180 for push-to-start cars equipped with remote transmitters or key fobs. These keys require a special service that is only performed by a certified Locksmith.