Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
If you lose your car key, it's important to know the different costs associated with. You can get a copy of a standard car key at any hardware store, however the smart key could require you to visit a dealer or locksmith.
But, if the fob is damaged but does not require changing its programming there are ways to reduce costs.
1. Type of Key
Car keys have the bizarre ability to disappear in strange places. They can be hard to locate, whether they disappear from your pocket when you're shopping, are stuck between your couch cushions or fall into a crack in the back of your car. In the past, you could simply visit your local auto locksmith or hardware shop to purchase a new.
These days, however, that could be a costly proposition in the case of a vehicle that is equipped with modern technology, such as key fob technology and push-to-start. These systems use key fobs and remote transmitters that are tiny electronic devices. They're also packed with circuitry, which makes them expensive to replace in the event of a loss.
It is recommended to consider an insurance plan for your key fob that covers up to 400 dollars for each key lost or stolen. These plans typically cover a fraction of cost of replacement, and offer unlimited replacements for stolen or lost keys, as well as additional benefits such as towing and roadside assistance.
The type of key you're using will also impact the cost, with some types being more expensive to replace than other. For instance, simple metal keys with no key fob are relatively inexpensive, because they're mechanical and can be replaced by a professional locksmith or mechanic. However, if the key is equipped with a transponder chip, it'll require special equipment to copy. These devices are usually accessible through dealerships or car manufacturers, and could be a major factor in the total cost.
Laser cut keys are yet another factor that could increase the cost of replacing a car key, because they are usually thicker than regular car keys. They are made of metal that is molded to a particular shape, and then are cut using precision lasers for the perfect fit.
2. Key Fob
In the past, losing your car keys was just a nuisance. You could purchase a replacement key from a locksmith shop or a car dealership and it was affordable to purchase it. As cars have technologically advanced as do their keys. This means that replacing a lost key can be more costly.
In the 1990s, key fobs were popular as a method to unlock and lock a vehicle without using an actual car key. The small plastic fobs come with a button which 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 open the trunk.
A traditional key with no fob is similar to those made prior to the 1990s, and it can be cut by an auto locksmith for a small charge. Some locksmiths can even repair a lost fob while you are waiting.
Fobs with a transponder or another chip could be more expensive to replace than conventional ones. Reprogramming and pairing them can cost upwards of $200 and are only accessible through the original car dealer.
Many companies that deal with cars such as auto repair shops and car dealerships could end up with lots of spare fobs. Some of these can be offered to consumers, however certain require specialized equipment and technical expertise to make use of, something that's readily available to the common consumer. This is why it's best to keep an extra car key in your purse or pocket and add the GEICO Emergency Roadside Service to your insurance policy to make it more convenient should you need to use it.
3. how.much is a replacement car key -cut keys have more ridges in comparison to traditional mechanical keys. They make them harder for thieves in cars to duplicate.
They also have slits tooled into both sides of the blade that allow them to be placed into the door or the ignition cylinder lock in either direction. They are the most popular kind of car keys that are available in the present. They are more popular than key fobs because they provide greater security and convenience.
If you're thinking of cutting a key using lasers for your car, it is important to make sure that the shop that is cutting keys has the proper equipment. Otherwise, you'll end up with a key that does not function properly. Be aware of the quality of the blade, since low-quality ones can damage the key cutting machine or even break inside your ignition cylinder.
The locksmith will require your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a key using lasers. Once they have this information, they can run it through a computer system to retrieve the specifications for your specific vehicle. They then utilize an CNC machine to cut the key according to these specifications.
They require specialized machinery to make, and they are typically only available at dealerships. They are however, less costly than traditional key fobs, and have the added bonus of being difficult to duplicate.
For a typical all-in-one laser cut key, you'll likely have to pay between $150 and $250 for labor costs. This is because these kinds of key need to be programmed at the dealership. But, they are one of the most secure and convenient keys for cars available today.
4. Switchblade Keys
Many modern vehicles use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, as well as turn on the engine. These newer keys are not mechanical keys that can be easily duplicated by locksmiths or key cutters. Instead, they feature transponder chip technology built in. The chip must be paired by an auto locksmith or dealer with the vehicle. 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 functions.
Fobs that have what's known as a switchblade key, which folds into itself when not in use. typically, they cost more to replace. They have shanks that retract into the fob, which then is released at the push of a button when required. They are much more secure than standard keys, making them a great alternative for those who need an extra key for valet use. The cost of replacing these keys ranges from $100 to $300, depending on the vehicle and the type.
These electronic keys are lighter and more user-friendly than the crank keys of the past which were extremely heavy, complicated and hazardous to use. The car keys also make it more difficult for thieves to steal them as they are cylindrical. This stops the use of key duplicate machines that criminals use to copy your car keys.
These keys that are completely electronic communicate electronically to open doors and begin the engine. Some are able to do so without having to be taken from the pocket of the driver. These keys are costly to replace and require an appointment with a dealer, which could include a towing fee.
5. Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are different from mechanical keys because they feature a chip that transmits an audio-frequency signal to the vehicle when the key is inserted in the ignition. The signal is then analyzed 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 keys to unlock the doors and also start the engine. The purpose behind this is to deter car theft by making it harder to hot wire a car and start the engine.
In the theory of it, this is efficient but smart car thieves are constantly trying to outwit this technology. In addition, the chips that are in these types of keys are not as durable as some would like to believe. They are prone to being destroyed quickly, which could result in the key not functioning at all.
The cost of replacing transponder keys can be costly. The key blank itself can cost as much as $50 and then there's the added expense of having it programmed. This process involves using a specific machine, which is only available at car dealerships.
It is advisable to find a locksmith who has the proper equipment to program transponder keys. It is also recommended to have all the details of your vehicle in order, including the year and make, as well as the model. This will help ensure that the right key blank is used, which will save you money in the long run. A locksmith can program a transponder keys typically for $150, however for push-to-start cars with key fobs and remote transmitters, it could cost up to $180. These keys require a special programming process that is performed only by a licensed locksmith.