Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
It is important to be aware of the costs involved when you lose your car keys. You can duplicate a basic key at any hardware store, but the smart key might require you to go to an auto dealer or locksmith.
There are ways to save money if your fob is not damaged and doesn't require to be reprogrammed.
1. Key Type
Car keys have a peculiar ability to disappear in strange places. If they disappear from your purse during shopping, get wedged between the couch cushions or fall through the crack in the back seat They're always a bit hard to find. In the past, you could go to your local hardware store or auto locksmith and purchase a new replacement.
These days however, it can be an expensive proposition when you're driving a car with advanced technology, like push-to-start and key fob technology. These systems make use of key fobs and remote transmitters, which are tiny electronic devices. They're also loaded with circuitry, making them expensive to replace in the event of an eventual loss.
This is why you should consider getting the replacement of your key fob insurance plan that covers up to $400 per lost or stolen key. These plans are usually a fraction of total replacement costs and include unlimited replacements for stolen or lost keys, in addition to other benefits like towing and roadside assistance.
The type of key you have can also affect the price and some keys are more costly to replace than others. For instance, simple keys made of metal with no fob are quite affordable, because they're mechanical and can be replaced by a professional locksmith or mechanic. If your keys have transponders, you'll require special equipment to duplicate it. These devices are usually available at dealerships or car manufacturers, and could be a major driver of the overall cost.
Laser cut keys are a different aspect that can raise the cost of replacing a car key, as these are typically heavier than regular keys. They are made of metal that is then molded to a specific shape and are then cut using precision lasers to ensure a precise fit.
2. Key Fob
The loss of keys to your car used be a minor issue. You could get an alternative key from a locksmith shop or a car dealership, and it was likely inexpensive to purchase one. However, as automobiles have evolved in terms of technology and so have keys, and this means that replacing a lost one can be more expensive than it used to be.
Key fobs became popular during the 1990s as an additional feature to allow car owners to lock and unlock their car without the need for a physical key. car key replacement have a button which when hit by the user signals the onboard computer to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some also contain a button that can activate the alarm system of the vehicle or open the trunk.
A traditional key without a fob is akin to those made prior to the 1990s, and it can be cut by an automotive locksmith for a small fee. Some locksmiths will be able to replace the fob that was lost while they wait.
Fobs that have a transponder or other computer chip may be more expensive to replace than standard ones. They can cost up to $200 to reprogram and connect to the new car and are usually only available through the original car dealer.
Many companies that deal with vehicles, such as auto repair shops and dealerships might end up with a lot of spare fobs. Some of these can be sold to consumers, but others require special equipment and technical expertise to make use of, 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 add GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your insurance policy to make it easier if you need it.
3. Laser Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys have more ridges unlike mechanical keys. This makes them less prone to car thieves.
They also have slits inserted into both sides of the key blades that allow them to be put into the door and the ignition cylinder lock from either direction. They are among the most sought-after car keys available today. They are more popular than key fobs, because they provide more security and convenience.
If you're thinking of cutting a key using lasers for your car, it is essential to make sure the company cutting keys has the proper equipment. You'll end with keys that don't perform as expected in the event that you don't. You should also consider the quality of the knife because a knife that isn't of the highest quality could damage your key cutting machine or even cause it to break within the ignition cylinder.
To cut a laser-cut keys locksmiths will need to have your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have this information, they can run it through an electronic system to find the specifications for your specific car. Then, they'll use the CNC to cut the key according to these specifications.
They require specialized machinery to make, and they are generally only available through dealerships. However, they are much less expensive than traditional key fobs, and have the added bonus of being extremely difficult to duplicate.
The labor costs for a typical laser-cut all in-one key will likely range between $150-$250. This is because these kinds of keys need to be programmed by the dealership. However, they are one of the most secure and convenient car keys on the market today.
4. Switchblade Keys
Many modern vehicles utilize key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, and turn on the engine. These aren't mechanical keys that are easily duplicated by locksmiths or key cutters. Instead, they have transponder chip technology integrated into. This chip must be connected 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 functionality.
Fobs with what's referred to as a switchblade key, that folds in itself when not in use, typically cost more to replace. These keys come with shanks that retract into the fob, and then release when needed. They are far more secure than standard keys, which makes them a great choice for those who need an additional key for valet use. The cost of changing these keys varies between $100-$300, depending on the vehicle and the type of key.
The electronic keys are lighter and easier to use than the old crank keys that were heavy, complicated and dangerous to handle. The car keys also make it more difficult for thieves to steal them, as they are cylindrical. This blocks the use of key duplicate devices used by criminals to copy your car keys.
These wholly electronic car keys communicate electronically to open doors and begin the engine. Some are even able to do this without having to be removed from the driver's pocket. These keys are expensive to replace and will require an excursion to the dealer, which might include a towing charge.
5. Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are different from mechanical keys due to the fact that they are equipped with the chip that sends a radio-frequency signal to the vehicle when the key is placed into the ignition. The signal is then analyzed by the computer system of the vehicle to determine whether it matches the serial number of the key. If it does, the vehicle will allow the key to open the door and begin the engine. This is to stop car thefts by making it difficult to connect a car's hot wire and also to start the engine.
In theory, this technology is effective, however, the most sophisticated car thieves are always looking for ways to defeat this technology. The chips in these keys are also not as long-lasting as some like to think. They are able to be easily washed out, which could result in the key not working.
The cost of replacing a transponder key can be very expensive. The key blank can cost as much as $50. Programming it is a cost additional. This requires a specific machine, which is only available at dealerships for cars.
For this reason, it is advisable to find locksmiths with the proper equipment to program transponder keys. It is also a great idea to have your car's information prepared, such as the year, make, and model. This will help ensure that the correct key blank is used, which will save you money in the long run. A locksmith can program a transponder-type key typically for $150, however for cars with push-to-start capabilities with remote transmitters and key fobs it could cost up to $180. auto key replacement require a special service that can only be performed by a certified Locksmith.