Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
It is crucial to understand the costs involved if you lose your car keys. You can copy a basic key at any hardware store, but a smart key may require you to visit an auto dealer or locksmith.
There are ways to save money on your device if it is damaged but doesn't require to be reprogrammed.
1. Key Type
Car keys have the bizarre ability to disappear in unexpected places. Whether they slip out of your purse during shopping, or get stuck between the couch cushions, or fall down the crack in the back seat, they're always a little difficult to locate. In the past, this meant that you could simply go to your local auto locksmith or hardware store and get a new replacement.
get a replacement car key to replace a key fob or remote transmitter if you have a vehicle that has advanced technology. Key fobs and remote transmitters used in these systems are tiny electronic devices that are packed with circuitry that can cause them to be expensive to replace if you lose them.
This is the reason you should consider getting an insurance replacement for your key fob plan, which will cover up to $400 for each lost or stolen key. These plans are usually just a fraction of total replacement costs, and include unlimited replacements for stolen or lost keys, as well as additional benefits like towing and roadside assistance.
The type of key you have also impacts the cost as some keys are more expensive to replace than other. For instance, basic metal keys that don't have a key fob are relatively inexpensive, because they're mechanical, and can be easily replaced by an experienced locksmith or mechanic. If your key is equipped with transponder chips, it will require special equipment to duplicate. These devices are usually available through car dealerships or manufacturers, and could be a major contributor to the overall cost.
Laser cut keys can also increase the cost of the replacement key for a car, as they are more substantial. They are made of metal that is then molded into a particular shape, and then cut using precision lasers for a perfect fit.
2. Key Fob
The loss of keys to your car used be a minor inconvenience. You could get an alternative key from a locksmith or a car dealership, and it was likely inexpensive to purchase one. As cars have technologically advanced as have their keys. This means that replacing a lost or damaged key could be more costly.
Key fobs were popular in the 90s as an added feature that allowed car owners to lock and unlock their car without the need for a physical key. The tiny plastic fobs include an electronic button that, when pressed, sends a signal to the computer of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some 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 similar to those made before the '90s, and can be cut by an auto locksmith for a small fee. Some locksmiths will repair the fob that was lost while they wait.
Fobs that have a transponder or other computer chip can be more costly to replace than traditional ones. Reprogramming and pairing these can cost upwards of $200 and are only available through the original dealer of the car.
Many companies that deal with cars, such as auto repair shops or dealerships might have a large number of spare fobs. Some are available to the general public, while others require specialized equipment or technical skills to program. This isn't something that a typical consumer could do. This is why it's always best to keep a spare car key in your purse or pocket and add GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service to your insurance policy to make it more convenient should you need to use it.
3. Keys Laser Cut Keys
In contrast to traditional mechanical keys laser-cut keys have more ridges and grooves. This makes them more difficult for car thieves.
The blades of the key have two slits that allow the key to be inserted into the ignition cylinder and door lock from either side. These are the most popular car keys on the market today. They are more sought-after than traditional key fobs due to the fact that they provide a higher degree of security and ease of use.
If you're considering having a laser-cut key made for your car, it is important to make sure that the company cutting them has the right equipment. You'll get keys that don't function properly when you don't. You should also consider the quality of the knife, because a knife that isn't of the highest quality could damage your key cutting machine or even cause it to break within the ignition cylinder.
To cut a key using lasers locksmiths will 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 of your specific car. They will then use the CNC machine to cut the key according to these specifications.
They are typically only available through dealers. They are however, less costly than traditional key fobs, and are also a bonus for being extremely difficult to duplicate.
For a typical all-in-one laser cut key, you'll likely be required to shell out between $150 and $250 for labor costs. These keys have to be programmed by the dealer. They are among the most convenient and secure keys for cars available today.
4. Switchblade Keys
Modern cars typically have key fobs that are able to lock and unlock doors and start the engine. Contrary to the older mechanical keys that operate mechanically and are easily duplicated by key cutters or locksmiths These newer car keys have transponder chips built in which must be linked with the vehicle by a dealer or auto locksmith. These keys are typically more expensive, and range between $50-$100 for the basic model, and up to $200 for models with push-to-start functions.
Fobs with what's referred to as a switchblade key, which folds up when not in use, generally cost more to replace. These keys have shanks that retract into the fob, and then can be released at the touch of a button when needed. They are usually much safer than traditional keys, which makes them a great deterrent to thieves. They are also a good alternative for those who require an extra car key to allow valet use. The cost of changing these keys can range between $100-$300, depending on the vehicle and the type.
In contrast to the crank key of the past that was difficult, heavy and dangerous to handle keys made of electronic technology are lighter and easier to use. They are also much more difficult to steal since they are cylindrical, which can prevent the use of key-duplicate devices used by criminals to create illegal copies of your car's key.
These keys that are completely electronic communicate electronically to open doors and begin the engine. Some can even do so without being removed from the pocket of the driver. The process of changing these kinds of car keys could be costly and usually require a visit to the dealer, which may or may not include a towing cost.
5. Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are different from mechanical keys due to the fact that they are equipped with an electronic chip that transmits an audio-frequency signal to the vehicle when the key is placed in the ignition. The computer system in the vehicle analyzes the signal to determine whether the serial number matches the one on the key. If car key barrel replacement does, the car will allow the key to open 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.
In theory, this technology is effective However, the most sophisticated car thieves are always finding ways to beat this technology. In addition, the chips that are in these types of keys are not as durable as people would like to believe. They are able to be easily washed out, which could result in the key not functioning.
Transponder key replacement costs can be very expensive. The key blank can cost up to $50. Programming it is an additional cost. This process requires a special machine that's only found at car dealerships.
It is therefore best to hire a professional locksmith with the right equipment for programming transponder key. It is also a good idea to have your vehicle's details ready, including the year model, make, and year. This will ensure that the right key blank is used and could save you money in the long run. Locksmiths can usually program an entirely new transponder-based key for around $150, however it could cost upwards of $180 for push-to-start cars equipped with remote transmitters or key fobs. These keys require a specific service that is only performed by a certified Locksmith.