Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
If you lose your car key, it's important to be aware of the various costs that are involved. You can copy a standard key from any hardware store, whereas the smart key might require you to go to an auto dealer or locksmith.
However, if the fob isn't damaged and does not require changing its programming there are ways to cut costs.
1. Type of Key
Car keys have the bizarre ability to disappear in unexpected places. They can be difficult to locate, whether they disappear from your purse when you're out shopping, end up stuck between the couch cushions or fall into a crack in the back seat. In the past, you could go to your local hardware or auto locksmith store to purchase a replacement.
These days however, it can be an expensive proposition if you're driving a vehicle with advanced technology, like key fob technology or push-to-start. The key fobs or remote transmitters that are used with these systems are miniature electronic devices, and they're packed with circuitry that could be quite costly to replace in the event of losing them.
You should therefore consider the possibility of a key fob insurance policy that will cover up to 400 dollars for each key lost or stolen. These plans typically represent just a fraction of total replacement costs, and provide unlimited replacements for stolen or lost keys as well as other benefits such as towing and roadside assistance.
The type of key that you own will also impact the cost. Certain keys are more expensive to replace. Simple metal keys that do not have keys with a fob, for example are fairly inexpensive, because they're mechanical and can be replaced by locksmiths or mechanics who are professionals. If your keys have a transponder, you'll need special equipment to duplicate it. These devices are usually accessible through dealerships or car manufacturers and can be a major driver of the total cost.
Laser cut keys are another factor that can increase the cost of replacing a car key, since they are generally thicker than regular car keys. They are made from metal that is molded into an exact shape, then cut using precision lasers for a perfect fit.
2. Key Fob
In the past lost car keys was not a big problem. A car dealer or locksmith could offer you a new key which was probably inexpensive. However since cars have evolved in terms of technology as well, so have their keys, which means replacing a lost key can be a lot more expensive than it was in the past.
In the 1990s, key fobs were popularized as a way to lock and unlock vehicles without the use of a physical car key. The small plastic fobs have a button that, when pressed, communicates to the computer onboard of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some are equipped with buttons that activate the security system in the vehicle or open the trunk.
A traditional key without a fob is similar to those made before the '90s, and it can be cut by an auto locksmith for a fee. Some locksmiths will repair your fob while they are waiting.
It can be more costly to replace a fob that has a transponder or computer chip as opposed to a traditional one. Reprogramming and pairing them could cost upwards of $200 and are only accessible through the original car dealer.
Many companies that deal with vehicles, such as 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 can be offered to consumers, however certain require specialized equipment and technical expertise to program, which isn't something that's easily accessible to the typical consumer. It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your pocket or purse. You can also include GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your policy to make things simpler if you require it.
3. Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser-cut keys have more ridges unlike mechanical keys. This makes them less prone to car thieves.
Key blades feature two slits which allow keys to be inserted into the ignition cylinder and door lock from either side. They are the most commonly used kind of car keys available in the present. They are more popular than key fobs because they provide more security and convenience.
If you're thinking of having a laser-cut key made for your car, it's important to make sure that the shop that is cutting them has the right equipment. Otherwise, you'll end up with a key that does not work properly. It is also important to consider the quality of the knife, since a poor quality knife could harm your key cutting device or cause it to break inside the ignition cylinder.
The locksmith will need your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a laser-cutted key. Once they have this information, they can run it through a computer system to retrieve the specifications specific to your vehicle. They will then employ the CNC to cut the key in accordance with these specifications.
They are generally only available through dealers. However, they are much less costly than traditional key fobs and are also a bonus for being difficult to duplicate.
The labor costs for a typical laser-cut, all-in-one key will likely range between $150 to $250. These keys need to be programmed by the dealer. They remain among the most secure and convenient keys for cars available today.
4. Switchblade Keys
Modern cars typically have key fobs that can lock and unlock doors and start the engine. In contrast to older mechanical keys which work mechanically and are easy to duplicate by locksmiths or key cutters, 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 are typically more expensive, and range between $50-$100 for the basic model to $200 for models with push-to-start features.
Fobs that have what's known 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 are released when needed. They are generally safer than traditional keys, making them a great deterrent to thieves and a great alternative for those who require an extra car key to allow valet usage. The cost of changing these keys varies between $100-$300 depending on the car and the type of key.
The electronic keys are lighter and simpler to use than the old crank keys, which were difficult, heavy and hazardous to use. These car keys also make it harder for thieves to steal them, because they are cylindrical. click here of key-duplicate machines used by criminals to copy your car key.
The keys are entirely electronic and communicate electronically to open doors and start the engine. Some keys can even do so without having to be taken from the pocket of the driver. These keys are expensive to replace and will require a trip to the dealer, which may include a towing charge.
5. Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are different from mechanical keys because they have the chip that sends a radio-frequency signal to vehicle when the key is placed into the ignition. The computer system of the vehicle analyzes the signal to determine whether the serial number matches that of the key. If it does, the vehicle will allow the key to unlock the door and begin the engine. This is done to prevent car thefts by making it difficult to wire a car hot and to start the engine.
In the theory of it, this is efficient However, clever car thieves are always looking for ways to defeat this technology. In addition, the chips that are in these keys are not as durable as many would like to believe. They are easily cleaned out, which could result in the key not functioning.
The cost of replacing transponder keys can be costly. The key blank can cost as much as $50. Programming it is an additional expense. This procedure requires a specific machine, which is only available at dealerships for cars.
It is therefore best to hire a professional locksmith with the right tools to program transponder keys. It is also a good idea to have all of the information for your vehicle including the year model, make and year of the vehicle. This will ensure that the right key blank is used, which will save you money in the long run. Locksmiths can program a transponder-type key typically for $150, however for push-to-start cars with key fobs and remote transmitters it could cost up to $180. These keys require a specialized programming service that can be done only by a certified locksmith.