Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
It's important to know the cost involved when you lose your car keys. You can duplicate a basic key at any hardware store, whereas the smart key might 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 in strange places. They can be difficult to locate, whether they slip out of your pocket when you're shopping, get stuck between the couch cushions or fall into a crack in the back seat. In the past, you could pop into your local auto locksmith or hardware shop to purchase a new.
These days it can be an expensive proposition in the case of a vehicle that is equipped with modern technology, such as key fob technology or push-to-start. key replacement car make use of remote transmitters and key fobs which are tiny electronic devices. They're also loaded with circuitry, which makes them costly to replace in the event of a loss.
This is why you should consider getting an insurance replacement for your key fob plan, which will cover up to $400 per lost or stolen key. These plans typically represent just a fraction of total replacement costs, and offer unlimited replacements for stolen or lost keys as well as other benefits such as towing and roadside assistance.
The type of key you have will also affect the cost. Certain keys are more expensive to replace. For instance, basic metal keys that don't have a key fob are fairly inexpensive because they're mechanical and can be replaced by an experienced locksmith or mechanic. However, if the key is equipped with a transponder chip, it'll require specialized equipment to copy. These machines are only available from car manufacturers or dealerships and could be a major factor in the cost.
Laser cut keys can increase the price of a replacement key for automobiles, as they are more substantial. They are made from metal that is then molded to the desired shape and then cut with lasers to ensure a perfect fit.
2. Key Fob
Losing keys to your car used to be a minor issue. A car dealer or locksmith would sell you a new key which was probably affordable. However as automobiles have become more technologically advanced and so have keys, and this means that replacing a lost one can be much more expensive than it used to be.
Key fobs were popular in the '90s as an extra feature that allowed car owners to lock and unlock their vehicles without a physical key. The tiny plastic fobs include the button that, when pressed signals to the onboard computer of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some have buttons that activate the vehicle's security system or unlock the trunk.
A locksmith for cars can cut a traditional key without a remote for an affordable fee. This is exactly the same as keys that were made prior to 1990. Some locksmiths can even repair lost fobs while you wait.
Fobs with a transponder or other computer chip could be more expensive to replace than traditional ones. These can cost upwards of $200 to reprogram and pair with a new vehicle and are usually only available through the dealer who sold the original car.
Many businesses that deal with cars such as auto repair shops and dealerships may end up with lots of spare fobs. Some of them are accessible to the general public, while others require special equipment or technical skills to program. This is not something that the average person can do. It's a good idea to keep an extra key in your wallet or purse. You can also add GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your insurance policy to make things simpler if you require it.
3. Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys
Unlike traditional mechanical keys, laser-cut keys have deeper grooves and ridges. They make them harder for thieves in cars to duplicate.
Key blades feature cut-outs on both sides that permit keys to be inserted into the ignition cylinder and door lock from either side. They are among the most sought-after car keys on the market today. They are more popular than key fobs, due to their more security and convenience.
If you're considering cutting a key using lasers for your vehicle, it's crucial to ensure that the shop that is cutting keys has the appropriate equipment. Otherwise, you'll end up with a key that doesn't work properly. Be aware of the quality of the blade, because low-quality ones can damage the cutting mechanism of the key or even break inside your ignition cylinder.
The locksmith will need your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a key using lasers. Once they have this information, they can run it through an electronic system to find the specifications specific to your car. Then, they'll use the CNC to cut the key in accordance with these specifications.
These keys require special machinery to make, and they are generally only available through dealerships. They are more affordable than traditional key fobs, but they also have the added benefit of being difficult to duplicate.
For a typical all-in-one laser cut key you'll have to pay between $150 and $250 for labor costs. This is due to the fact that these types of key need to be programmed at the dealership. They are nevertheless one of the most secure and convenient keys for cars on the market today.
4. Switchblade Keys
Modern cars usually have key fobs that lock and unlock doors and start the engine. In contrast to older mechanical keys which work mechanically and are easily duplicated by key cutters or locksmiths These newer car keys contain transponder chips that must be connected with the vehicle by a dealer or auto locksmith. These keys can be more expensive. They vary from $50-$100 for the basic model up to $200 for models that include push-to-start capabilities.
Fobs with what's referred to as a switchblade key, which folds into itself when not in use, generally cost more to replace. These keys come with shanks that retract into the fob and are released when needed. They are typically safer than traditional keys, which makes them a great deterrent for thieves and a great alternative for those who require an extra car key for valet usage. Changing these keys can run anywhere from $100 to $300 based on the car and the kind of key.
These electronic keys are lighter and easier to use than the old crank keys that were difficult, heavy and dangerous to handle. The car keys also make it difficult for thieves to steal them because they are cylindrical. This prevents the use of key duplicate machines used by criminals to copy your car keys.
These electronic keys can open doors and start engines without the driver needing to take them out of their pockets. The process of changing these kinds of car keys could be costly and typically require a trip to the dealership, which may or may not include a towing cost.
5. Transponder Keys
In contrast to mechanical keys keys are equipped with a chip inside them that relays a radio frequency signal to the car when it is inserted into the ignition. The computer system of the vehicle reads the signal to determine if the serial number matches that of the key. If it does, the car will let the key unlock the door and start the engine. The idea behind this is to prevent car theft by making it more difficult to wire a car and start the engine.
In the theory of it, this is efficient, however, smart car thieves are constantly trying to outwit this technology. The chips in these keys aren't as long-lasting as some think. They can get wiped out easily, which could cause the key to stop functioning at all.
Transponder key replacement costs can be very expensive. The key blank can cost up to $50. Programming it is a cost additional. This process requires a special machine that's only available at car dealerships.
It is therefore best to employ a professional locksmith with the right equipment to program transponder keys. It is also recommended to keep all of your vehicle's information ready including the year and make, as well as the model. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used and could save you money in the long run. A locksmith can typically program the new transponder key for about $150, but it may cost up to $180 for push-to-start cars equipped with key fobs or remote transmitters. These keys require a specific programming process that is performed only by a licensed locksmith.