Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
It is important to be aware of the costs involved if you lose your car keys. You can duplicate a basic key at any hardware store, while a smart key may require you to go to a locksmith or dealership.
However, if the fob isn't damaged and does not require changing its programming, there are ways to reduce costs.
1. Key Type
Car keys have the bizarre ability to disappear into unexpected places. They can be hard to locate, whether they fall out of your pocket when you're shopping, end up stuck between the couch cushions or fall into a crack in the back of your car. In the past, you could simply visit your local hardware or auto locksmith shop to purchase a new.
It's costly to replace the key fob or remote transmitter if you own an automobile that is equipped with advanced technology. These systems rely on 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 the loss.
You should therefore consider a key fob insurance plan that will cover up to $400 dollars per key that is stolen or lost. These plans typically cost less than total cost of replacement, and come with unlimited key replacements for lost or stolen keys along with additional benefits like towing insurance and roadside assistance, among others.
The kind of key you're using can also affect the price and some keys are more costly to replace than others. For instance, basic keys made of metal with no fob are relatively inexpensive, since they're mechanical and can be replaced by a professional locksmith or mechanic. If your key has a transponder, you'll need an equipment that is specifically designed to duplicate it. These machines are only available from car manufacturers or dealerships and could be a major factor in the cost.
Laser cut keys can also increase the cost of a replacement key for cars, since they are more substantial. They are made from metal that is then molded to a specific shape and are then cut using lasers that are precise to ensure a perfect fit.
2. Key Fob
Losing keys to your car used be a minor issue. You could get a replacement key from a locksmith or car dealership, and it was likely affordable to purchase it. However since automobiles have become more technologically advanced, so too have their keys, and this means that replacing a lost key can be more expensive than it was in the past.
Key fobs became popular in the '90s as an extra feature to allow car owners to lock and unlock their car without the need for a physical key. These small plastic fobs have the button that, when it is pressed by the user signals the onboard computer to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some of them have buttons that trigger the security system of the vehicle or unlock the trunk.
An automotive locksmith can cut a traditional key without a remote for an affordable fee. This is the same as those made before 1990. Some locksmiths will even replace a lost fob while you wait.
It's more costly to replace a fob that contains a transponder or computer chip than if it were an ordinary one. They can cost up to $200 to reprogram and pair with an entirely new vehicle and are usually only available through the original car dealer.
Many businesses that deal with cars such as auto repair shops or dealerships could have a large number of spare fobs. Some of them can be offered to consumers, however some require special equipment and technical knowledge to make use of, something that's readily available to the typical consumer. where to get car key replacement is why it's always recommended to keep an extra car key in your purse or pocket and then add the GEICO Emergency Roadside Service to your policy to make it even more convenient should you need to use it.
3. Laser Cut Keys
Contrary to traditional mechanical keys laser-cut keys have deeper grooves and ridges. These make them more difficult 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 ignition cylinder lock from either direction. These are the most well-known car keys on the market 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 right equipment. If not, you'll end up with a key that doesn't work properly. You should also be aware of the quality of the blade, as low-quality blades can damage the key cutting machine or even break within your ignition cylinder.
The locksmith will require your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a key using lasers. Once they have your VIN, they will run the data through a computer in order to determine the specifications of your vehicle. Then, they'll use the CNC to cut the key to these specifications.
They are generally only available through dealers. However, they are much less expensive than traditional key fobs and have the added bonus of being difficult to duplicate.
For a typical all-in-one laser-cut key, you'll likely need to pay between $150 and $250 in labor costs. This is due to the fact that these types of key need to be programmed at the dealership. However, they are one of the most secure and reliable car keys on the market today.
4. Switchblade Keys
Modern cars often use key fobs that lock and unlock doors and 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 has to be connected by an auto locksmith or dealer with the vehicle. These keys are more expensive. They range from $50-$100 for the basic model up to $200 for models that include push-to-start capabilities.
Fobs with a "switchblade" key that folds up on itself when not being used, are usually more expensive to replace. These keys have shanks that retract into the fob, which then can be released at the touch of a button when required. They are generally safer than traditional keys, making them a great deterrent to thieves and are a good alternative for those who require an extra car key for valet use. The cost of changing these keys can range from $100 to $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, these electronic keys are lighter and easier to use. They also make it difficult for thieves to steal them, since they are cylinder-shaped. This blocks the use of key duplicate machines used by criminals to copy your car key.
These wholly electronic car keys communicate electronically to open doors and start the engine. Some can even do this without having to be removed from the pocket of the driver. These keys are expensive to replace and will require an appointment with a dealer, which could include a towing fee.
5. Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are different from mechanical keys in that they are equipped with a chip that transmits a radio-frequency signal to the vehicle when the key is inserted in the ignition. The signal is then read 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 unlock the door and start the engine. This is done to prevent car thefts by making it more difficult to hot-wire a car and also to start the engine.
In theory, this technology is effective However, smart car thieves are constantly looking for ways to defeat this technology. The chips in the keys aren't as long-lasting as some think. They can be easily wiped out, resulting in the key not working.
The cost of replacing a transponder key can be a significant expense. The key blank itself can cost as much as $50 and then there's the additional expense of having it programmed. This procedure requires a specific machine, which is only available at dealerships for cars.
This is why it is advisable to find a locksmith who has the right equipment to program transponder keys. It is also a good idea to have your vehicle's information ready, such as the year model, make, and year of the vehicle. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used, which could save you money in the long run. Locksmiths 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 as high as $180. These keys require a specific service that can only be performed by a certified Locksmith.