Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
It is crucial to understand the costs involved if you lose your car key. You can get a copy of a standard car key at any hardware store, but a smart key may require you to visit a dealer or locksmith.
But, if the fob is merely damaged and doesn't require reprogramming there are ways to reduce costs.
1. Key Type
Car keys have a strange ability to disappear in strange places. They can be hard to locate, whether they disappear from your pocket while shopping, end up stuck between your couch cushions or fall into the crack in the back seat. In the past, this meant that you could just pop into your local hardware store or auto locksmith and purchase a new replacement.
These days, however, that can be quite costly if you're driving a vehicle with advanced technology, like key fob technology or push-to-start. Key fobs or remote transmitters that are used with these systems are miniature electronic devices, and they're packed with electronics that can cause them to be expensive to replace in the event that you lose them.
You should therefore consider a key fob insurance plan that covers up to 400 dollars for each key that is stolen or lost. These plans typically cost a fraction of the total replacement costs and include unlimited key replacements for lost or stolen keys and additional benefits such as towing coverage and roadside assistance, among others.
The kind of key you're using can also affect the price, with some types being more costly to replace than others. For instance, simple metal keys that don't have a key fob are relatively inexpensive, because they're mechanical, and can be easily replaced by an experienced locksmith or mechanic. If your key is equipped with transponder chips, it will require specialized equipment to duplicate. These devices are available from car dealerships or manufacturers and could be a major element in the price.
Laser cut keys are another factor that can increase the cost of a replacement car key, because they are generally thicker than regular car keys. They are made from metal that is then molded to an exact shape, and then cut with lasers to ensure a precise fit.
2. Key Fob
Not too long ago lost car keys was not a big inconvenience. You could purchase an alternative key from a locksmith or a car dealership and it was affordable to purchase it. As cars have become more advanced in technology as do their keys. This means that replacing a lost key can be more expensive.
Key fobs became popular in the 1990s as an additional feature to allow car owners to lock and unlock their car without a physical key. These tiny plastic keys have the button that, when pressed by the user, sends a signal to the computer onboard to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some also 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 similar to those made prior to the 1990s, and can be cut by an automotive locksmith for a fee. Some locksmiths will even replace lost fobs while you are waiting.
Fobs that contain transponders or another computer chip can be more costly to replace than traditional ones. Reprogramming and pairing them could cost up to $200 and are only available through the original car dealer.
Many businesses that work with cars, including auto repair shops, car dealerships and salvage yards, could end with a number of spare fobs not tied to a particular vehicle. Some of them could be offered to consumers, however certain require specialized equipment and technical knowledge to make use of, something that is easily accessible to the typical consumer. It's best to always keep a spare key in your pocket or purse. You can also add GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your policy to make it simpler if you require it.
3. Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys
In contrast to traditional mechanical keys laser-cut keys feature deeper grooves and ridges. This makes them less prone to car thieves.
The blades of the key have slits on both sides that permit the key to be put into the ignition cylinder as well as the door lock from either side. These are the most well-known car keys available today. They are more popular than key fobs, because they offer greater security and ease of use.
It is crucial that the company cutting keys has the correct equipment. Otherwise, you'll end with a key that doesn't perform as expected. You must also think about 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.
To cut a laser-cut keys locksmiths need to have your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have your VIN, they are able to run the information through a computer to retrieve the specifications of your car. They will then use a CNC machine to cut the key according to these specifications.
They require specialized equipment to make, and they are typically only available at dealerships. They are however, less expensive than traditional key fobs, and also have the benefit of being hard to duplicate.
For an all-in-one key that is laser-cut you'll need to pay between $150 and $250 for labor costs. These keys have to be programmed by the dealer. They are nevertheless one of the most secure and reliable keys for cars available today.
4. Switchblade Keys
Modern cars typically have key fobs that are able to lock and unlock doors as well as start the engine. Unlike older mechanical keys, that operate mechanically and are easily duplicated by locksmiths or key cutters, these newer car keys come with transponder chips which must be linked with the vehicle by the dealer or auto locksmith. These keys are typically more expensive, and range from $50 to $100 for the basic version to $200 for models that have push-to-start capabilities.
Fobs that have what's known as a switchblade, which folds up when not in use. typically, they cost more to replace. They have shanks that retract into the fob, and then release when needed. They are more secure than standard keys, which makes them an ideal choice for those who require an extra key for valet use. The cost of changing these keys can range between $100-$300, depending on the vehicle and the type.
In contrast to the crank key of the past, which was complex, heavy and dangerous to handle keys that are electronic are light and easy to handle. They also make it more difficult for thieves to steal them as they are cylindrical. This stops the use of key duplicate machines used by criminals to copy your car key.
These electronic keys 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, which may or may not include a towing cost.
5. Transponder Keys
In contrast to mechanical keys, transponder keys have a chip in them that transmits a radio frequency signal to the car when it is put into the ignition. funny post is then read by the vehicle's computer system to determine whether it is in line with the serial number of the key. If it matches the key's serial number, the vehicle will allow the key to unlock the door and to start the engine. The purpose behind this is to stop car theft by making it harder to wire a car and start the engine.
Theoretically it's possible that this technology will work however, smart car thieves constantly find ways to defeat it. The chips in these keys are also not as long-lasting as some like to believe. They are easily cleaned out, resulting in the key not functioning.
The cost of replacing transponder keys could be high. The key blank can cost as much as $50. Programming it is an additional expense. This process requires a special machine that's only available at dealerships for cars.
For this reason, it is recommended to employ a locksmith who has the right equipment to program transponder keys. It is also a good idea to have your vehicle's information prepared, such as the year model, make, and year. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used and can save you money in the long run. A locksmith can program a transponder key typically for $150, but for cars with push-to-start capabilities with remote transmitters and key fobs it could cost up to $180. These keys require a specialized service that can only be done by a locksmith who is certified.