Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
It is important to be aware of the costs involved when you lose your car keys. You can copy a standard key from any hardware store, but the smart key might require you to go to an auto dealer or locksmith.
There are ways to save money if your device is only damaged and does not need to be reprogrammed.
1. Type of Key
Car keys have the ability to disappear in most surprising places. They can be lost in your purse while shopping, get wedged between the couch cushions or fall down the crack in your back seat and are a bit hard to find. In the past, this meant that you could go to your local auto locksmith or hardware store and pick up a replacement.
These days, however, that can be quite costly in the case of a vehicle that is equipped with modern technology, such as key fob technology or push-to-start. The key fobs or remote transmitters used in these systems are small electronic devices, and are packed with circuitry that could cause them to be expensive to replace in the event that you lose them.
Consider a key fob insurance plan that will cover up to 400 dollars for each key lost or stolen. These plans usually cost less than total cost of replacement and offer unlimited key replacements in the event of theft or loss and additional benefits like towing coverage and roadside assistance, among other things.
The kind of key you're using can also affect the price and some keys are more expensive to replace than other. Basic metal keys without a key fob, for example are fairly inexpensive, because they're mechanical and can be replaced by a professional mechanic or locksmith. However, if the key has a transponder chip, it'll require special equipment to duplicate. These devices are available from car dealers or manufacturers and can be a major factor in the cost.
Laser cut keys can increase the price of the replacement key for cars, since they are more substantial. They are made of metal that is molded to a particular shape, and then cut using lasers that are precisely calibrated to ensure an exact fit.
2. Key Fob
In the past lost car keys was a inconvenience. A locksmith or car dealer would sell keys to replace them, which was probably relatively affordable. As cars have advanced in technology and so do their keys. This means that replacing a lost or damaged key could be more expensive.
In the 1990s, key fobs were popularized as a way to lock and unlock the vehicle without requiring a physical car key. The tiny plastic fobs include an electronic button that, when pressed, signals to the onboard computer of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some also contain a button that can activate the alarm system of the vehicle or open the trunk.
A key that is not fitted with a fob is akin to those made prior to the 1990s, and can be cut by an automotive locksmith for a fee. Some locksmiths will repair your lost fob while they wait.
It can be more expensive to replace a fob that has a transponder or computer chip than if it was merely a traditional one. Reprogramming and pairing them could cost up to $200 and are only accessible through the original dealer for cars.
Many companies that deal with vehicles, such as auto repair shops, car dealerships and salvage yards may end up with quite a few spare fobs that aren't tied to a specific vehicle. Some of these can be offered to consumers, however some require special equipment and technical knowledge to program, which isn't something that's easily accessible to the average consumer. This is why it's best to keep a spare car key in your pocket or purse and add the GEICO Emergency Roadside Service to your policy to make it more convenient in the event that you require it.
3. Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys
Unlike traditional mechanical keys, laser-cut keys have more ridges and grooves. These make them more difficult for car thieves to duplicate.
They also have slits inserted into the sides of the key blades that allow them to be put into the door and the ignition cylinder lock in either direction. These are the most well-known car keys on the market today. They are more popular than traditional keys because they provide a higher degree of security and ease of use.
It is important that the shop cutting keys has the proper equipment. You'll end with an unusable key that doesn't work properly in the event that you don't. You must also be aware of the quality of the blade, because low-quality ones can damage the key cutting machine or even break the ignition cylinder.
The locksmith will require your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a key using lasers. Once they have this information, they can run it through a computer system to retrieve the specifications specific to your vehicle. They can then use an CNC machine to cut the key in accordance with these specifications.
They are typically only available through dealerships. They are cheaper than traditional key fobs, however, they also have the added benefit of being difficult to duplicate.
The cost of labor for a typical laser-cut, all-in-one key can range from $150 and $250. This is because these kinds of keys need to be programmed at the dealership. But, they are one of the most secure and convenient car keys on the market today.
4. Switchblade Keys
Modern cars often use key fobs that lock and unlock doors as well as start the engine. car key replacement mobile that can be duplicated by locksmiths and key cutters. Instead, they come with transponder chip technology integrated into. This chip must be connected by an auto locksmith or dealer with the vehicle. These keys are typically more expensive, ranging between $50 and $100 for the basic model, and up to $200 for models with push-to-start features.
Fobs that feature a "switchblade" key that folds over itself when not being used they are typically more expensive to replace. These keys have shanks that retract into the fob, which is released at the push of a button whenever needed. They are generally more secure than standard keys, making them a powerful deterrent for thieves and are a good alternative for those in need of an extra car key for valet usage. The cost of changing these keys can range between $100 and $300, depending on the vehicle and the type of key.
Unlike the old crank key, which was complex, heavy and dangerous to use, these electronic keys are lightweight and more convenient. These car keys also make it more 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.
Electronic keys can open doors and start engines without the driver having to take them out of their pockets. These keys are costly to replace and will require an appointment with a dealer, which may include a towing charge.
5. Transponder Keys
In contrast to mechanical keys keys are equipped with a chip inside them that transmits a radio frequency signal to the car when it is put into the ignition. The computer system of the vehicle analyzes the signal to determine if the serial number matches that of the key. If it is, the vehicle will allow the key unlock the door and also start the engine. The concept behind this is to stop car theft by making it harder to connect a car's hot wire and start the engine.
In theory, this technology is effective However, the most sophisticated car thieves are always finding ways to beat this technology. Furthermore, the chips inside these types of keys aren't as long-lasting 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 expensive. The key blank can cost as much as $50. Programming it is a cost additional. This process involves using an exclusive machine that is only available at car dealerships.
It is recommended to employ locksmiths who have the appropriate equipment for programming transponder keys. It is also recommended to have all of the information for your vehicle, including the year, make and model. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used and can save you money over time. Locksmiths can program a transponder keys typically for $150, however for push-to-start cars with remote transmitters and key fobs it could cost up to $180. These keys require a specific service that can only be done by a licensed locksmith.