Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
When you lose a car key, it's crucial to be aware of the various costs associated with. You can find a duplicate of a standard car key from any hardware store, but the smart key could require you to go to a locksmith or dealer.
There are ways to save money if your device is only damaged and doesn't require reprogramming.
1. Key Type
Car keys have the ability to disappear from the most unlikely places. Whether they slip out of your pocket while shopping, are tucked between the couch cushions, or fall down the crack in the back seat and are a difficult to locate. In the past, you could simply pop into your local auto locksmith or hardware shop to purchase a new.
It can be expensive to replace a key fob or a remote transmitter if you drive an automobile with the latest technology. These systems rely on key fobs and remote transmitters, which are tiny electronic devices. They're also packed with circuitry, which makes them expensive to replace in the event of the loss.
This is why you should consider getting a key fob replacement insurance plan, which will cover up to $400 for each lost or stolen key. These plans typically cover just a fraction of cost of replacement, and offer unlimited replacements for stolen or lost keys as well as other benefits such as towing and roadside assistance.
The kind of key you're using also impacts the cost and some keys are more expensive to replace than others. Basic metal keys without key fobs for instance are fairly inexpensive, as they're mechanical, and can be replaced by a professional mechanic or locksmith. If your keys have transponders, you'll require an equipment that is specifically designed to duplicate it. These machines are available from car dealerships or manufacturers and can be a major factor in the cost.
Laser cut keys are another factor that could increase the cost of replacing a car key, because they are generally thicker than regular car keys. They are made from metal that is molded to a particular shape, and then cut with lasers that are precise to ensure a perfect fit.
2. Key Fob
In the past, losing your car keys was just a problem. A locksmith or car dealer would sell you a new key which was probably cheap. As cars have become more technologically advanced and so have their keys. This means that replacing a lost or damaged key could be more costly.
In the 1990s, key fobs were popularized as a way to lock and unlock a vehicle without using a physical car key. The small plastic fobs come with the button that when hit by the user communicates to the computer in the onboard system to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some also have a button to activate the vehicle's alarm system or open the trunk.
A traditional key without a fob is similar to those that were made prior to the '90s and can be cut by an automotive locksmith for a small charge. Some locksmiths will replace your lost fob while they wait.
It's more costly to replace a fob with a transponder or computer chip as opposed to a traditional one. They can cost up to $200 to reprogram and connect to the new car and are typically only available through the original dealer.
Many companies that deal with automobiles, including auto repair shops, car dealerships and salvage yards could end with a number of spare fobs not tied to a specific vehicle. Some are available to the public, whereas others require special equipment or technical knowledge to program. This isn't something that the average consumer can do. It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your wallet or purse. You can also include GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your insurance policy to make things easier in the event of need.
3. Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys
Unlike traditional mechanical keys, laser-cut keys have more ridges and grooves. They make them harder for car thieves to duplicate.
They also have slits inserted into both sides of the blades that allow them to be inserted into the door and the ignition cylinder lock from either direction. These are the most well-known car keys on the market today. They are more popular than key fobs because they provide greater security and ease of use.
It is essential that the place cutting the keys is equipped with the right equipment. You'll end up with keys that don't function properly if you don't. You should also consider the quality of the knife, since a poor quality knife could cause damage to your key cutting machine or even cause it to break within the ignition cylinder.
The locksmith will need your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a key using lasers. Once they have your VIN, they can run the data through a computer to retrieve the specifications of your vehicle. Then, they will make use of the CNC to cut the key in accordance with these specifications.
They require specialized equipment to create, and are typically 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 can range from $150-$250. This is because these types of keys need to be programmed by the dealership. However, they are one of the most secure and reliable keys for cars available today.
4. Switchblade Keys
Many modern cars have key fobs that lock and unlock the doors, and turn on the engine. These aren't mechanical keys that can be duplicated by locksmiths and key cutters. Instead, they have transponder chip technology in the. The chip has to be paired by an auto locksmith or dealer with the vehicle. These fobs are generally more expensive, ranging between $50 and $100 for the basic model to $200 for models with push-to-start features.
Fobs that contain what's known as a switchblade, which folds up when not in use, generally cost more to replace. The keys are equipped with shanks that retract into the fob, which is released at the push of a button when required. They are usually much more secure than traditional keys, which makes them a powerful deterrent for thieves and are a good alternative for those who need an extra car key to allow valet use. Changing these keys can run anywhere from $100 to $300 based on the car and kind of key.
They are lighter and more user-friendly than the old crank keys which were difficult, heavy and dangerous to handle. They also make it harder for thieves to steal them, because they are cylindrical. This stops the use of key duplicate machines that criminals use to copy your car key.
These keys are electronic and can open doors and start engines without the driver needing to take them out of their pockets. Making changes to these types of car keys could be costly and typically require a trip to the dealer and may or may not include a towing cost.
5. Transponder Keys
Transponder keys differ from mechanical keys in that they feature the chip that sends an audio-frequency signal to the vehicle when the key is put in the ignition. The computer system of the vehicle reads the signal to determine whether the serial number is identical to the one on the key. If it matches, the vehicle will allow the key unlock the door and start the engine. The idea behind this is to stop car theft by making it harder to connect a car's hot wire and start the engine.
Theoretically it's possible that this technology will work However, car thieves who are smart always find ways to beat it. The chips in these keys aren't as long-lasting as some like to think. They are easily cleaned out, which can result in the key not functioning.
Transponder key replacement costs can be very expensive. The key blank can cost as much as $50. Programming it is an additional cost. This process involves using a specific machine, which is only available at car dealerships.
For this reason, it is advisable to find a locksmith who has the proper equipment to program transponder keys. It is also a great idea to have your car's information ready, including the year model, make, and year. This will ensure that the right key blank is used and can save you money over time. Locksmiths typically can program the new transponder key for around $150, but it may cost up to $180 for push-to-start cars equipped with remote transmitters or key fobs. vehicle key replacement require a specialized programming service that can be done only by a locksmith who is certified.