Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
If you lose your car key, it's crucial to be aware of the various costs that are involved. You can obtain a copy of a standard car key from any hardware store, however a smart key may require you to visit a locksmith or dealer.
There are ways to save money if your fob is not damaged and does not need programming.
1. Type of Key
Car keys have an uncanny ability to disappear in most surprising places. If automotive car key replacement disappear from your purse during shopping, or get stuck between the sofa cushions, or fall through the crack in your back seat, they're always a little bit hard to find. In the past, you could go to your local hardware or auto locksmith shop to purchase a new.
Today however, it could be a costly proposition when you're driving a car that is equipped with modern technology, such as push-to-start and key fob technology. These systems use remote transmitters and key fobs that are tiny electronic devices. They're also packed with circuitry, making them expensive to replace in the event of a loss.
Consider the possibility of a key fob insurance policy that will cover up to $400 dollars per key stolen or lost. These plans typically cover a fraction of cost of replacement, and include unlimited replacements for stolen or lost keys, as well as additional benefits like towing and roadside assistance.
The type of key you have can also affect the price as some keys are more costly to replace than others. For instance, simple metal keys with no key 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 machines are only available from car manufacturers or dealerships and could be a major element in the price.
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 molded to the desired shape, then cut using precision lasers for a perfect fit.
2. Key Fob
Losing keys to your car used be a minor inconvenience. You could purchase keys replacements from a locksmith or car dealership and it was relatively cheap to do so. As cars have become more advanced in technology as have their keys. This means that replacing a lost key could be more expensive.
In the 1990s, key fobs were popular as a method to unlock and lock a vehicle without using the physical keys of a car. These small plastic fobs contain a button that, when pressed sends a signal to the computer of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some also contain a button that can activate the alarm system in the vehicle or open the trunk.
A traditional key without a fob is similar to those that were made prior to the '90s and it can be cut by an automotive locksmith for a fee. similar web page will be able to replace your fob while they wait.
It can be more expensive to replace a fob that contains an electronic chip or transponder as opposed to an old-fashioned one. Reprogramming and pairing them could cost upwards of $200 and are only accessible through the original dealer of the car.
Many businesses that work with cars, including auto repair shops, car dealerships, and salvage yards may end with a number of spare fobs not tied to a particular vehicle. Some of them can be offered to consumers, however some require special equipment and technical expertise to make use of, something that's readily available to the typical consumer. It's best to always keep an extra key in your purse or pocket. You can also include GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your insurance policy to make things easier if you need it.
3. Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser-cut keys have more ridges, unlike traditional mechanical keys. This makes them less prone to car thieves to steal.
They also have slits that are inserted 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 in circulation these days. They are more popular than key fobs because they provide greater security and convenience.
It is crucial that the shop cutting keys has the right equipment. You'll get a key which doesn't work properly when you don't. You should also be aware of the quality of the blade, because low-quality ones can damage the key cutting machine or even break inside your ignition cylinder.
To cut a laser-cut keys, the locksmith will need to have your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have this information, they will run it through a computer system to retrieve the specifications specific to your vehicle. Then, they'll make use of the CNC to cut the key to these specifications.
They are usually only available through dealerships. However, they are much less expensive than traditional key fobs, and also have the benefit of being hard to duplicate.
The cost of labor for a typical laser-cut, all-in-one key could range from $150-$250. These keys need to be programmed by the dealer. However, they are one of the most secure and convenient car keys on the market today.
4. Switchblade Keys
A lot of modern cars have key fobs that lock and unlock the doors, and start the engine. Unlike older mechanical keys, that operate mechanically and are easy to duplicate by key cutters or locksmiths These newer car keys come with transponder chips that need to be paired with the vehicle by a dealer or an auto locksmith. These keys can be more expensive. They range from $50-$100 for the basic model up to $200 for models with push-to-start functions.
Fobs with the "switchblade" key, which folds in on itself when not being used they are typically more expensive to replace. These keys have shanks that retract into the fob, which then pops out at the push of a button when required. They are more secure than standard keys, which makes them an ideal choice for those who require an additional key to use as a valet. The cost of changing these keys varies between $100 and $300, depending on the vehicle and the type.
In contrast to the crank key of the past, which was heavy, complicated and dangerous to handle, these electronic keys are lighter and easier to use. They also make it more difficult for thieves to steal them because they are cylindrical. This blocks the use of key duplicate devices used by criminals to copy your car keys.
These electronic keys can open doors and start engines without needing to take them out of their pockets. The process of changing these kinds of car keys can be costly and generally require a visit to the dealership which may or not include a towing fee.
5. Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are different from mechanical keys in that they feature an electronic chip that transmits a radio-frequency signal to the vehicle when the key is inserted in the ignition. The computer system of the vehicle reads the signal to determine whether the serial number is identical to that of the key. If it does, the car will allow the key to open the door and start the engine. The idea behind this is to deter car theft by making it more difficult to wire a car and start the engine.
Theoretically it is possible that this technology works, but smart car thieves constantly find ways to defeat it. The chips in these keys aren't as long-lasting as some 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 could be costly. The key blank can cost as much as $50. Programming it is a cost additional. This procedure requires a specific machine, which is only available at dealerships for cars.
It is therefore best to find a locksmith professional with the right equipment to program transponder keys. It is also an excellent idea to have all the information for your vehicle including the year, make and model. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used, which will save you money in the long run. Locksmiths can program a transponder-type key typically for $150, but for push-to-start cars with key fobs and remote transmitters, it could cost up to $180. These keys require a special service that is only performed by a certified Locksmith.