Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
If you lose a car key, it's important to know the different costs associated with. You can obtain a copy of a car key at any hardware store, but a smart key might require you to visit a dealer or locksmith.
There are ways to save money on your device if it is not damaged and doesn't require programming.
1. Key Type
Car keys have an uncanny ability to disappear from the most surprising places. They can be hard to locate, whether they fall out of your purse when you're out shopping, end up stuck between your couch cushions or fall into a crack in the back of your car. In the past, you could simply go to your local auto locksmith or hardware store to purchase a replacement.
These days however, it could be a costly proposition when you're driving a car with advanced technology, like key fob technology or push-to-start.
key car replacement fobs and remote transmitters used in these systems are miniature electronic devices, and are packed with electronics that can make them quite expensive to replace in the event that you lose them.
You should therefore consider the possibility of a key fob insurance policy which covers up to 400 dollars for each key stolen or lost. These plans are usually just a fraction of total replacement costs and offer unlimited replacements for stolen or
lost car keys replacement keys, as well as additional benefits like towing or roadside assistance.
The type of key that you own will also impact 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 easily replaced by an expert
locksmith car key replacement cost or mechanic. If your key is equipped with transponder chips, it will require specialized equipment to duplicate. These machines are usually only available at dealerships or car manufacturers, and could be a major contributor to the overall cost.
Laser cut keys are another aspect that can raise the cost of a
replacement car keys cost car key, as these are typically heavier than regular keys. They are made from metal that is molded into a specific shape and are then cut using lasers that are precise to ensure a precise fit.
2. Key Fob
In the past the loss of your car keys was just a inconvenience. A car dealer or locksmith could sell you a new key which was probably affordable. As cars have advanced in technology, so do their keys. This means that replacing a lost key could be more costly.
In the 1990s, key fobs became popularized as a way to lock and unlock vehicles without the use of an actual car key. The small plastic fobs have a button that, when pressed sends a signal to the computer of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some include a button that allows you to activate the alarm system of the vehicle or open the trunk.
A traditional key without a fob is akin to those that were made prior to the '90s and can be cut by an auto locksmith for a fee. Some locksmiths will be able to replace your fob while they wait.
It can be more costly to replace a fob that has a computer chip or transponder than if it were a traditional one. These can cost upwards of $200 to reprogram and connect to the new car and are usually only available through the original dealer.
Many businesses that work with vehicles, such as auto repair shops, car dealerships, and salvage yards may end up with quite a few spare fobs not tied to a specific vehicle. Some of these can be sold to consumers, but others require special equipment and knowledge to program, which isn't something that's easily accessible to the common consumer. It's best to always keep an extra key in your pocket or purse. You can also include GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your insurance policy to make it simpler if you require it.
3. Keys Laser Cut Keys
Contrary to traditional mechanical keys laser-cut keys have deeper grooves and ridges. They are also more difficult for thieves in cars to duplicate.
The blades of the key have two slits which allow the key to be inserted in the ignition cylinder and door lock from either side. These are the most common type of car keys that are in circulation these days. They are more popular than traditional keys because they provide a higher degree of security and comfort.
It is essential that the place cutting the keys is equipped with the correct equipment. You'll end up with an unusable key that doesn't work properly when you don't. You should also consider the quality of the knife, as a low-quality one can damage your key cutting machine or cause it to crack inside the ignition cylinder.
The locksmith will require your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a laser-cutted key. Once they have your VIN, they can run the information through a computer to find the specifications of your car. They will then use the CNC to cut the key in accordance with these specifications.
They are typically only available through dealers. However, they are much less expensive than traditional key fobs and have the added bonus of being extremely difficult to duplicate.
Labor costs for a typical laser-cut all in-one key will likely range between $150-$250. This is because these types of key need to be programmed at the dealership. They are still one of the most convenient and secure keys for cars that are available today.
4. Switchblade Keys
Modern cars usually have key fobs that lock and unlock doors as well as start the engine. Contrary to the older mechanical keys which are mechanical and easily duplicated by locksmiths or key cutters the newer keys for cars come with transponder chips that need to be paired with the vehicle by the dealer or auto locksmith. These keys can be more expensive. They vary from $50-$100 in the basic version up to $200 for models that have push-to-start functionality.
Fobs with what's referred to as a switchblade, that folds in itself when not in use. generally cost more to replace. They have shanks that retract into the fob, which then pops out at the push of a button when required. They are generally more secure than standard keys, making them a great deterrent to thieves and are a good alternative for those who need an extra car key to allow valet usage. The cost of changing these keys ranges between $100 and $300 based on the car and kind of key.
The electronic keys are lighter and more user-friendly than the old crank keys that were difficult, heavy and dangerous to handle. These car keys also make it 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.
The keys are entirely electronic and communicate electronically to open doors and start the engine. Some can even do so without being removed from the driver's pocket. Making changes to these types of keys for cars can be expensive and will typically require a trip to the dealer, which may or may not include a towing charge.
5. Transponder Keys
Transponder keys differ from mechanical keys due to the fact that they have the chip that sends a radio-frequency signal to vehicle when the key is placed in the ignition. The computer system in the vehicle scans the signal to determine whether the serial number matches the one on the key. If it does, the car will allow the key to unlock the door and begin the engine. This is done to prevent
cheapest car key replacement thefts by making it harder to hot-wire a car and also to start the engine.
In theory, this is effective but smart car thieves are constantly finding ways to beat this technology. The chips inside these keys are also not as durable as people think. They are easily cleaned out, which can result in the key not functioning.
Transponder key replacement costs can be a significant expense. The key blank can cost up to $50. Programming it is an additional cost. This process requires a special machine that is only available at dealerships for cars.
It is therefore recommended to employ a professional
locksmith car key replacement cost who has the equipment to program transponder keys. It is also recommended to have all of the information for your vehicle, including the year, make and model. This will help ensure that the correct key blank is used, which will save you money in the end. Locksmiths can usually program the new transponder key for around $150, but it can cost up to $180 for cars with push-to-start capabilities with key fobs or remote transmitters. These keys require a specific programming process that is performed only by a licensed locksmith.