Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
If you lose a car key, you need to understand the various costs associated with. You can copy a basic key from any hardware store, whereas a smart key may require you to go to an auto dealer or locksmith.
There are ways to save money if your fob is not damaged and is not in need of to be reprogrammed.
1. Type of Key
Car keys have a strange ability to disappear into unexpected places. If they disappear from your purse while shopping, or get stuck between the couch cushions, or fall down the crack of the back seat They're always a bit hard to find. In the past, you could just pop into your local auto locksmith or hardware store and pick up a replacement.
It's costly to replace the key fob or remote transmitter if you have an automobile that is equipped with advanced technology. The key fobs or remote transmitters used in these systems are miniature electronic devices, and are packed with electronics that can make them quite expensive to replace if you lose them.
This is the reason you should consider getting the replacement of your key fob insurance plan that covers up to $400 for each lost or stolen key. These plans typically cost less than the total cost of replacement, and come with unlimited key replacements for lost or stolen keys along with additional benefits like towing coverage and roadside assistance, among others.
The type of key you have also impacts the cost as some keys are more costly to replace than others. Metal keys that don't have key fobs, for example are relatively inexpensive since they're mechanical, and can be replaced by locksmiths or mechanics who are professionals. If Read the Full Report has transponders, you'll require an equipment that is specifically designed to duplicate it. These devices are available from car dealers or manufacturers and can be a major factor in the cost.
Laser cut keys are another aspect that can raise the cost of a replacement car key, since they are typically more substantial than regular car keys. They are made of metal that is molded into an exact shape, and then cut with lasers to ensure a perfect fit.
2. Key Fob
In the past lost car keys was just a inconvenience. A car dealer or locksmith would sell you a replacement key, which was probably relatively affordable. However, as cars have become more technologically advanced as well, so have their keys, and this means that replacing a lost one can be more expensive than it was in the past.
Key fobs became popular during the '90s as an extra feature that allowed car owners to lock and unlock their vehicles without a physical key. These small plastic fobs contain a button that, when pressed, sends a signal to the computer of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some of them have buttons that trigger the vehicle's security system or unlock the trunk.
A key that is not fitted with a fob is similar to the ones made before the '90s, and can be cut by an auto locksmith for a fee. Some locksmiths will even replace the fob that was lost while you are waiting.
It's more expensive to replace a fob with a computer chip or transponder than if it were a traditional one. They can cost as high as $200 to reprogram and pair with a new vehicle and are typically only available through the original car dealer.
Many businesses that work 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 them could be offered to consumers, however certain require specialized equipment and technical knowledge to make use of, something that's easily accessible to the common consumer. This is why it's recommended to keep a spare car key in your pocket or purse and also 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
Laser-cut keys have ridges that are deeper, unlike traditional mechanical keys. This makes them less prone to car thieves.
Key blades feature slits on both sides which allow the key to be put in the ignition cylinder and door lock from either side. They are the most commonly used kind of car keys available these days. They are more popular than key fobs because they provide more security and convenience.
If you're interested in having a laser-cut key made for your car, it's important to make sure that the company cutting them has the right equipment. If not, you'll end up with a key that doesn't work properly. Be aware of the quality of the blade, since low-quality blades can damage the cutting mechanism of the key or even break within your ignition cylinder.
To cut a laser-cut key locksmiths need to have your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have this information, they will run it through a computer system to get the specifications specific to your car. Then, they will employ the CNC to cut the key to these specifications.
They are typically only available through dealerships. They are more affordable than traditional key fobs, but they also have an added benefit of being difficult to duplicate.
For a typical all-in-one laser-cut key you'll be required to shell out between $150 and $250 in labor costs. These keys need to be programmed by the dealer. But, they are one of the most secure and convenient keys for cars available today.
4. Switchblade Keys
A lot of modern cars utilize key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, as well as turn on the engine. Contrary to the older mechanical keys that operate mechanically and are easy to duplicate by key cutters or locksmiths These newer car keys have transponder chips built in that need to be paired with the vehicle by a dealer or an auto locksmith. The fobs are typically more expensive, and range from $50 to $100 for the basic model to $200 for models with push-to-start functions.
Fobs that have the "switchblade" key, which folds in on itself when not in use, are usually more expensive to replace. These keys have shanks which retract into the fob, and then release when required. They are much more secure than standard keys, making them a great choice for those who require an extra key to use as a valet. The cost of changing these keys ranges anywhere from $100 to $300 based on the car and the kind of key.
These electronic keys are lighter and more user-friendly than the old crank keys which were difficult, heavy and hazardous to use. They also make it harder for thieves to steal them since they are cylinder-shaped. This stops the use of key duplicate devices used by criminals to copy your car keys.
These keys are electronic and can open doors and start engines without having to take them out of their pockets. These types of keys are expensive to replace and will require an excursion to the dealer, which may include a towing charge.
5. Transponder Keys
Transponder keys differ from mechanical keys because they are equipped with the chip that sends an audio-frequency signal to the vehicle when the key is inserted in the ignition. The computer system of the vehicle scans the signal to determine whether the serial number matches that of the key. If it does, the car will allow the key to unlock the door and start the engine. This is done to prevent car thefts by making it harder to hot-wire a car and also to start the engine.
Theoretically, this technology is effective However, car thieves who are smart constantly find ways to defeat it. The chips inside these keys are also not as durable as people like to think. They are easily cleaned out, which could result in the key not working.
Transponder key replacement costs can be a significant expense. The key blank can cost up to $50. Programming it is a cost additional. This process involves using an exclusive machine that is only available at dealerships for cars.
For this reason, it is recommended to employ locksmiths with the right equipment to program transponder keys. It is also recommended to keep all of the details of your vehicle in order including the year model, make and year of the vehicle. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used, and will save you money over time. A locksmith can typically program the new transponder key for around $150, however it could cost as much as $180 for cars with push-to-start capabilities with key fobs or remote transmitters. These keys require a specialized programming process that is performed only by a locksmith who is certified.