Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
If you lose a car key, it's crucial to be aware of the various costs that are involved. You can duplicate a basic key at any hardware store, but an electronic key will require you to visit an auto dealer or locksmith.
There are ways to save money if your device is damaged but doesn't require reprogramming.
1. Key Type
Car keys have the ability to disappear in the most unlikely places. They can be lost in your purse while shopping, are tucked between the couch cushions, or fall into the crack of the back seat They're always a bit hard to find. In the past, you could go to your local auto locksmith or hardware store and get a new replacement.
It can be expensive to replace a key fob or remote transmitter if you have an automobile with the latest technology. The key fobs or remote transmitters that are used with these systems are miniature electronic devices, and are packed with circuitry that can be quite costly to replace in the event of losing them.
Consider the possibility of a key fob insurance policy that will cover up to 400 dollars for each key lost or stolen. These plans typically cover only a small fraction of the total replacement costs and provide unlimited replacements for lost or stolen keys, as well as additional benefits like towing or roadside assistance.
The type of key that you have will also affect the cost. Some keys are more expensive to replace. For instance, basic keys made of metal with no fob are relatively inexpensive, because they're mechanical, and can be replaced by an expert locksmith or mechanic. If your key contains transponder, you'll need specialized equipment to duplicate it. These machines are available from car manufacturers or dealerships and are a significant factor in the cost.
Laser cut keys can increase the price of keys for replacement on a car, as they are thicker. They are made of metal that is then molded into an exact shape, and then cut using lasers that are precisely calibrated to ensure the perfect fit.
2. Key Fob
The loss of keys to your car used be a minor issue. A locksmith or car dealer would sell you a replacement key, which was probably relatively inexpensive. As automobiles have become more advanced in technology and so do their keys. This means that replacing a lost key can be more expensive.
Key fobs were popular in the 1990s as an additional feature to allow car owners to lock and unlock their vehicle without the need for a physical key. These small plastic fobs have a button which, when pressed by the user, sends a signal to the computer onboard to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some include a button that allows you to activate the vehicle's alarm system or open the trunk.
A key that is not fitted with a fob is similar to the ones that were made prior to the '90s and it can be cut by an automotive locksmith for a small fee. Some locksmiths will replace your lost fob while they wait.
It is more costly to replace a fob with an electronic chip or transponder as opposed to an old-fashioned one. They can cost up to $200 to reprogram and connect to an entirely new vehicle and are typically only available through the dealer who sold the original car.
Many businesses who work with vehicles, such as auto repair shops and dealerships might have a large number of spare fobs. Some of these can be sold to consumers, but others require special equipment and technical knowledge to program, which isn't something that's readily available to the average consumer. This is why it's best to keep a spare car key in your purse or pocket, and then add the GEICO Emergency Roadside Service to your policy to make it even more convenient should you require it.
3. Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser-cut keys have deeper ridges, unlike traditional mechanical keys. key replacement car make them harder for car thieves to duplicate.
Key blades feature slits on both sides that permit keys to be inserted into the ignition cylinder as well as the door lock from either side. These are the most common type of car keys that are in circulation in the present. They are more popular than key fobs because they offer greater security and convenience.
It is crucial that the company cutting the keys has the correct equipment. Otherwise, you'll end up with a key that does not function properly. You must also be aware of the quality of the blade, as low-quality ones can damage the key cutting machine or even break within your ignition cylinder.
To cut a laser-cut keys locksmiths require your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have this information, they can run it through a computer system to retrieve the specifications specific to your vehicle. They then utilize an CNC machine to cut the key in accordance with these specifications.
They require specialized equipment to make, and they are typically only available at dealerships. They are cheaper 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 probably need to pay between $150 and $250 for labor costs. This is because these types of keys must be programmed at the dealership. They are nevertheless one of the most secure and convenient keys for cars available today.
4. Switchblade Keys
Many modern vehicles utilize key fobs to lock and unlock doors, and also turn on the engine. These modern keys aren't mechanical keys that are easily duplicated by locksmiths and key cutters. Instead, they have transponder chip technology integrated into. The chip must be paired by an auto locksmith or dealer to the vehicle. The fobs are typically more expensive, and range from $50 to $100 for the basic model, and up to $200 for models with push-to-start features.
Fobs that contain what's known as a switchblade key that folds in itself when not in use, typically, they cost more to replace. They have shanks that retract into the fob, and then are released when needed. They are typically safer than traditional keys, making them a great deterrent for thieves and are a good alternative for those who need an extra car key for valet use. The cost of changing these keys can range from $100 to $300 depending on the type of vehicle and the type.
Contrary to the crank key, which was complex, heavy, and dangerous to handle, these electronic keys are lighter and easier to use. They also make it harder for thieves to steal them because they are cylindrical. This stops the use of key duplicate machines that criminals use to copy your car keys.
These keys that are completely electronic communicate electronically to open the doors and begin the engine. Some are even able to do this without having to be removed from the driver's pocket. The process of changing these kinds of keys for cars could be costly and generally require a visit to the dealership, which may or may not include a towing charge.
5. Transponder Keys
In contrast to mechanical keys, transponder keys have a chip in them that transmits a radio frequency signal to the car when it is put into the ignition. The computer system in the vehicle scans the signal to determine whether the serial number is identical to the one on the key. If it does, the car will allow the key to open the door and start the engine. This is done to avoid car thefts by making it harder to connect a car's hot wire and to start the engine.
Theoretically, this technology is effective however, smart car thieves always find ways to beat it. In addition, the chips that are in these types of keys aren't as long-lasting as some would like to believe. They can get wiped out easily, which could cause the key to stop functioning at all.
The cost of replacing a transponder key can be quite expensive. The key blank can cost upwards of $50, and then there's the additional expense of having it programmed. This process requires a special machine that is only available at car dealerships.
It is therefore recommended to employ a professional locksmith who has the necessary equipment to program transponder keys. It is also an excellent idea 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 could save you money over time. Locksmiths typically can program an entirely new transponder-based key for about $150, but it may cost up to $180 for cars that are equipped with key fobs or remote transmitters. These keys require a specialized programming service that can be performed only by a certified locksmith.