Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
It's important to know the cost involved when you lose your car key. You can get a copy of a basic car key from any hardware store, however a smart key might require you to visit a dealer or locksmith.
There are ways to save money on your device if it is only damaged and is not in need of to be reprogrammed.
1. Type of Key
Car keys have the bizarre ability to disappear in unexpected places. They can be hard to locate, whether they disappear from your purse when you're out shopping, end up stuck between the sofa cushions or fall into a crack in the back of your car. In the past, you could visit your local auto locksmith or hardware store to get a replacement.
It's expensive to replace a key fob or remote transmitter if you have a vehicle that has advanced technology. These systems rely on key fobs and remote transmitters that are tiny electronic devices. They're also packed with circuitry, which makes them expensive to replace in the event of an eventual loss.
You should therefore consider the possibility of a key fob insurance policy that covers up to $400 dollars per key that is stolen or lost. These plans typically cost a fraction of the total cost of replacement, and come with unlimited key replacements in the event of theft or loss as well as additional benefits such as towing coverage and roadside assistance, among others.
The type of key you have will also affect the cost. Certain keys are more expensive to replace. For instance, simple metal keys that don't have a key fob are relatively inexpensive, because they're mechanical and can be replaced by an expert locksmith or mechanic. If your key has transponders, you'll require an equipment that is specifically designed to duplicate it. These machines are usually only accessible through dealerships or car manufacturers, and could be a major factor in the total cost.
Laser cut keys are yet another factor that can increase the cost of a replacement car key, since they are generally thicker than regular car keys. They are made from metal that is molded into an exact shape, and then cut using lasers that are precisely calibrated to ensure the perfect fit.
2. Key Fob
Losing keys to your car used to be a minor issue. You could buy keys replacements from a locksmith shop or a car dealership, and it was likely affordable to purchase it. However, as cars have evolved in terms of technology, so too have their keys, and this means that replacing a lost one can be much more expensive than it used to be.
Key fobs became popular in the '90s as an extra feature that allowed car owners to lock and unlock their vehicles without the need for a physical key. These tiny plastic keys have the button that, when pressed by the user, communicates to the computer in the onboard system to lock or unlock the vehicle. automotive car key replacement include a button that allows you to activate the alarm system in the vehicle or open the trunk.
A locksmith for cars can cut traditional keys without a remote at an affordable fee. It's exactly the same as keys produced prior to 1990. Some locksmiths will even replace the fob that was lost while you are waiting.
It can be more costly to replace a fob with an electronic chip or transponder as opposed to a traditional one. These can cost upwards of $200 to reprogram and pair with a new vehicle, and they are generally only available through the original dealer.
Many businesses that deal with cars such as auto repair shops and dealerships may end up with a lot of spare fobs. Some of them could be sold to consumers, but others require special equipment and knowledge to program, which isn't something that is easily accessible to the common consumer. This is why it's always recommended to keep a spare car key in your purse or pocket and add GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service to your policy to make it more convenient should you need to use it.
3. Laser Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys have ridges that are deeper, unlike traditional mechanical keys. This makes them more difficult for car thieves.
The key blades have cut-outs on both sides that allow the key to be put in the ignition cylinder and door lock from either side. These are the most popular car keys available today. They are more popular than key fobs, because they offer greater security and convenience.
If you're interested in getting a laser-cut key for your car, it is essential to make sure the place that cuts keys has the appropriate equipment. Otherwise, you'll end with a key that doesn't work properly. You must also be aware of the quality of the blade, because low-quality blades can damage the cutting mechanism of the key or even break inside your ignition cylinder.
To cut a key using lasers locksmiths will require your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have this information, they can run it through a computer system to get the specifications of your specific car. They will then use a CNC machine to cut the key in accordance with these specifications.
They are generally only available through dealerships. They are however, less costly than traditional key fobs, and also have the benefit of being extremely difficult to duplicate.
For an all-in-one key that is laser-cut, you'll likely have to pay between $150 and $250 for labor costs. This is because these types of key need to be programmed by the dealership. They remain among the most secure and convenient keys for cars that are available today.
4. Switchblade Keys
Modern cars typically have key fobs that are able to lock and unlock doors and start the engine. In contrast to older mechanical keys which work mechanically and are easily duplicated by locksmiths or key cutters the newer keys for cars contain transponder chips which must be linked with the vehicle by the dealer or an auto locksmith. These fobs can be more expensive. They vary from $50-$100 in the basic model, and up to $200 for models with push-to-start functions.
Fobs that have a "switchblade" key that folds over itself when not being used, are usually more expensive to replace. These keys have shanks which retract into the fob and are released when needed. They are more secure than standard keys, which makes them an ideal choice for those who need an additional key to use as a valet. Keys that are changed can cost between $100 and $300 depending on the car and the kind of key.
Unlike the old crank key, which was difficult, heavy and dangerous to handle keys made of electronic technology are light and easy to handle. They are also much more difficult to steal since they are cylindrical, a feature that can prevent the use of key duplicate devices that are used by criminals to create illegal copies of your car's keys.
Electronic keys can open doors and start engines without the driver having to remove them from their pockets. Making changes to these types of keys for cars can be costly and generally require a visit to the dealership which may or not include a towing cost.
5. Transponder Keys
In contrast to mechanical keys keys have a chip in them that transmits a radio frequency signal to the car whenever it is inserted into the ignition. The signal is then analyzed by the vehicle's computer system to determine whether it is in line with the serial number of the key. If it does, the car will let the key unlock the door and begin the engine. This is to stop 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. Additionally, the chips in these types of keys aren't as durable as people would like to believe. They can be easily wiped out, which can result in the key not working.
The cost of replacing transponder keys could be costly. The key blank can cost up to $50. Programming it is an additional cost. This requires a special machine, which is only available at dealerships for cars.
It is therefore best to hire a professional locksmith who has the necessary tools to program transponder keys. It is also a great idea to have your vehicle's details ready, such as the year, make, and model. This will help ensure that the right key blank is used, which can save you money in the long run. A locksmith can program a transponder keys typically for $150, however for cars with push-to-start capabilities with remote transmitters and key fobs it could cost as high as $180. These keys require a special service that can only be done by a locksmith who is certified.