Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
If you lose your car key, it's important to understand the various costs associated with. You can duplicate a basic key at any hardware store, while the smart key might require you to go to an auto dealer or locksmith.
However, if the device is merely damaged and does not require changing its programming there are ways to reduce costs.
1. Key Type
Car keys have a strange ability to disappear in unexpected places. They can be hard to locate, no matter if they slip out of your purse when you're out shopping, end up stuck between the sofa cushions or fall into a crack in the back seat. In the past, you could go to your local hardware or auto locksmith shop to purchase a new.
It can be expensive to replace a key fob or remote transmitter if you drive an automobile that is equipped with advanced technology. These systems make use of remote transmitters and key fobs, which are tiny electronic devices. They're also stuffed with circuitry, which makes them costly to replace in the event of an eventual loss.
This is the reason you should think about purchasing an insurance replacement for your key fob plan, which will cover up to $400 for each lost or stolen key. These plans typically cover only a small fraction of the total replacement costs, and provide unlimited replacements for lost or stolen keys, in addition to other benefits like towing and roadside assistance.
The type of key you have will also affect the cost. Certain keys are more expensive to replace. For instance, basic metal keys that don't have a key fob are relatively inexpensive, since they're mechanical and can be replaced by an expert locksmith or mechanic. If car key replacement near me transponder, you'll need specialized equipment to duplicate it. These machines are usually only available through car dealerships or manufacturers, and could be a major contributor to the total cost.
Laser cut keys may increase the cost of the replacement key for a car, as they are more substantial. They are made of metal that's molded into a specific shape and are then cut with lasers to ensure a precise fit.
2. Key Fob
Not too long ago, losing your car keys was a inconvenience. You could purchase a replacement key from a locksmith or car dealership and it was affordable to purchase it. However, as automobiles have evolved in terms of technology, so too have their keys, and that means replacing a lost one can be more expensive than it used to be.
In the 1990s, key fobs were widely used to lock and unlock the vehicle without requiring an actual car key. The small plastic fobs come with the button that when pressed by the user, communicates to the computer in the onboard system to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some are equipped with buttons that activate the security system in the vehicle or unlock the trunk.
A locksmith for cars can cut a key without a remote at the cost of a small fee. It's similar to keys that were made prior to 1990. Some locksmiths will replace your fob while they wait.
Fobs that contain a transponder or other computer chip could be more expensive to replace than standard ones. These can cost upwards of $200 to reprogram and connect to a new vehicle and are typically only available through the original car dealer.
Many companies that deal with vehicles, such as auto repair shops and car dealerships may end up with a lot of spare fobs. Some are available to the general public, while others require specialized equipment or technical expertise to program. This isn't something that the average consumer could do. This is why it's ideal to keep an extra car key in your pocket or purse and also add GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service to your policy to make it more convenient should you ever require it.
3. Keys Laser Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys have deeper ridges, unlike traditional mechanical keys. They make them harder for thieves in cars to duplicate.
They also have slits inserted into both sides of the blade, which allows them to be inserted into the door and the ignition cylinder lock in either direction. They are among the most sought-after car keys on the market today. They are more popular than key fobs, because they offer more security and convenience.
It is crucial that the shop cutting the keys has the proper equipment. Otherwise, you'll end with a key that doesn't function properly. You should also be aware of the quality of the blade, because low-quality blades can damage the key cutting machine or even break within your ignition cylinder.
To cut a laser-cut key locksmiths need to have your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have your VIN, they can run the information through a computer to retrieve the specifications of your car. They can then use the CNC machine to cut the key according to these specifications.
They are generally only available from dealerships. They are however, less expensive than traditional key fobs and are also a bonus for being hard to duplicate.
For a typical all-in-one laser cut key you'll have to pay between $150 and $250 for labor costs. This is due to the fact that these types of keys need to be programmed by the dealership. They are still one of the most secure and convenient keys for cars available today.
4. Switchblade Keys
Modern cars typically have key fobs that lock and unlock doors and start the engine. These aren't mechanical keys that can be duplicated by locksmiths and key cutters. Instead, they come with transponder chip technology built in. The chip must be paired by an auto locksmith or dealer with the vehicle. These keys are more expensive. They range from $50-$100 in the basic version up to $200 for models that have push-to-start functionality.
Fobs that have the "switchblade" key that folds over itself when not being used They are generally more expensive to replace. These keys have shanks which retract into the fob, and then pop out when required. They are far more secure than standard keys, making them an ideal choice for those who require an additional key to use as a valet. Changing these keys can run between $100 and $300 depending on the car and kind of key.
These electronic keys are lighter and simpler to use than the crank keys of the past that were difficult, heavy and dangerous to handle. They are also much more difficult to steal as they are cylindrical, a feature that helps to prevent the use of key duplicate devices used by criminals to make illegal copies of the keys to your car.
The keys are entirely electronic and communicate electronically to open doors and begin the engine - some can even do this without having to be removed from the pocket of the driver. These types of keys are costly to replace and require a trip to the dealer, which may include a towing cost.
5. Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are different from mechanical keys due to the fact that they are equipped with an electronic chip that transmits an audio-frequency signal to the vehicle when the key is placed into the ignition. The computer system in the vehicle scans the signal to determine whether the serial number is identical to that of the key. If it does the serial number, the vehicle will let the key to unlock the door and to start the engine. This is done to prevent car thefts by making it more difficult to connect a car's hot wire and also to start the engine.
Theoretically it is possible that this technology works however, smart car thieves always find ways to beat it. Furthermore, the chips inside these keys aren't as long-lasting as some would like to believe. They can be easily wiped out, which could result in the key not working.
The cost of replacing transponder keys could be costly. The key blank can cost as much as $50 and then you have the added expense of having it programmed. This requires a specific machine, which is only available at dealerships for cars.
It is therefore best to hire a professional locksmith with the right equipment for programming transponder key. It is also a good idea to have your vehicle's information ready, such as the year, make, and model. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used, and will save you money in the long run. Locksmiths can usually program the new transponder key for about $150, but it can cost upwards of $180 for cars with push-to-start capabilities with key fobs or remote transmitters. These keys require a specialized service that can only be performed by a certified Locksmith.