Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
When you lose a car key, you need to know the different costs that are involved. You can find a duplicate of a standard car key at any hardware store, however a smart key may require you to visit a dealer or locksmith.
There are ways to save money if your device is only damaged and doesn't require to be reprogrammed.
1. Key Type
Car keys have the ability to disappear from the most surprising places. They can be difficult to find, whether they fall out of your pocket while shopping, end up stuck between your couch cushions, or fall into the crack in the back of your car. In the past, this meant that you could just pop into your local auto locksmith or hardware store and pick up a replacement.
It can be expensive to replace a key fob or remote transmitter if you own an automobile with the latest technology. These systems use key fobs and remote transmitters, which are tiny electronic devices. They're also packed with circuitry, making them costly to replace in the event of a loss.
You should therefore consider a key fob insurance plan which covers up to 400 dollars per key stolen or lost. These plans typically cover a fraction of cost of replacement, and include unlimited replacements for lost or stolen 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 example, basic metal keys that don't have a key fob are fairly inexpensive because they're mechanical, and can be easily replaced by a professional locksmith or mechanic. If your key is equipped with transponder chips, it will require special equipment to copy. These devices are available from car dealerships or manufacturers and are a significant factor in the cost.
Laser cut keys are another aspect that can raise the cost of replacing a car key, as these are usually more substantial than regular car keys. They are made from metal that is then molded into a particular shape, and then are cut with lasers that are precise to ensure the perfect fit.
2. Key Fob
Losing keys to your car used to be a minor inconvenience. automotive car key replacement could purchase a replacement key from a locksmith or car dealership, and it was likely inexpensive to purchase one. However, as cars have evolved in terms of technology and so have keys, and that means replacing a lost one can be much more expensive than it used to be.
Key fobs became popular during the 90s as an added feature to allow car owners to lock and unlock their car without the need for a physical key. The small plastic fobs have the button that, when pressed communicates to the computer onboard of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. automotive car key replacement include a button that allows you to activate the alarm system in the vehicle or open the trunk.
An automotive locksmith can cut traditional keys without a remote at a small charge. This is the same as those that were made prior to 1990. Some locksmiths can even repair a lost fob while you wait.
Fobs that have a transponder or another chip can be more costly to replace than conventional ones. They can cost up to $200 to reprogram and pair with a new vehicle and are usually only available through the original car dealer.
Many businesses that work with cars, including auto repair shops, car dealerships and salvage yards, could end having a lot of spare fobs not tied to a particular vehicle. Some are available to the public, whereas others require special equipment or technical expertise to program. This isn't something that the average person could do. 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 easier if you need it.
3. Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser-cut keys have more ridges unlike mechanical keys. They are also more difficult for car thieves to duplicate.
They also have slits that are inserted into the sides of the key blade that allow them to be inserted into the door and the ignition cylinder lock from either direction. These are the most popular car keys available today. They are more popular than traditional key fobs because they provide a higher level of security and comfort.
If you're considering cutting a key using lasers for your car, it's crucial to ensure that the company cutting keys has the appropriate equipment. Otherwise, you'll end up with a key that doesn't work properly. You should also consider the quality of the knife because a knife that isn't of the highest quality could harm your key cutting device or even cause it to break inside the ignition cylinder.
To cut a laser-cut keys locksmiths will require your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have this information, they can run it through a computer system to retrieve the specifications specific to your vehicle. They will then use the CNC machine to cut the key in accordance with these specifications.
They require specialized equipment to create, and they are usually only available at dealerships. They are more affordable than traditional key fobs, but they also have an added benefit of being difficult 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 need to be programmed by the dealer. However, they are one of the most secure and practical car keys on the market today.
4. Switchblade Keys
A lot of modern cars use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, as well as start the engine. These aren't mechanical keys that are easily duplicated by locksmiths or key cutters. Instead, they have transponder chip technology built in. The chip must be connected by an auto locksmith or dealer with the vehicle. These fobs can be more expensive. They range between $50 and $100 in the basic version up to $200 for models with push-to-start functionality.
Fobs that contain what's known as a switchblade key, that folds in itself when not in use, typically, they cost more to replace. They have shanks that retract into the fob and pop out when needed. They are generally more secure than traditional keys, making them a great deterrent for thieves and are a good alternative for those who need an extra car key for valet use. The cost of changing these keys ranges anywhere from $100 to $300, depending on the car and type of key.
The electronic keys are lighter and more user-friendly than the old crank keys that were extremely heavy, complicated and dangerous to handle. They also make it difficult for thieves to steal them, because they are cylindrical. This blocks the use of key duplicate machines that criminals use to copy your car keys.
These keys are electronic and can open doors and start engines without having to remove them from their pockets. These keys are costly to replace and will require an excursion to the dealer, which might include a towing cost.
5. Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are different from mechanical keys because they have an electronic chip that transmits a radio-frequency signal to the vehicle when the key is inserted in the ignition. The signal is then analyzed by the vehicle's computer system 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. The purpose behind this is to deter car theft by making it more difficult to wire a car and then start the engine.
In the theory of it, this is efficient but clever car thieves are always looking for ways to defeat this technology. In addition, the chips that are in these types of keys aren't as durable as people would like to believe. They can be easily wiped out, resulting in the key not working.
The cost of replacing a transponder key can be quite expensive. The key blank can cost up to $50. Programming it is an additional expense. This process involves using a specific machine, which is only available at dealerships for cars.
It is recommended to employ locksmiths who have the right equipment to program transponder keys. It is also an excellent idea to keep all of the details of your vehicle in order, including the year and make, as well as the model. This will ensure that the right key blank is used, which can save you money in the end. Locksmiths can program a transponder keys typically for $150, but for push-to-start cars with key fobs and remote transmitters it could cost as high as $180. These keys require a specialized service that can only be done by a locksmith who is certified.