Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
It’s important to know the cost involved when you lose your car keys. You can obtain a copy of a basic car key at any hardware store, but the smart key could require you to go to a locksmith or dealer.
However, if the device isn’t damaged and does not require to be reprogrammed there are ways to cut costs.
1. Key Type
Car keys have the ability to disappear in the most unlikely places. If they disappear from your purse during shopping, get wedged between the sofa cushions, or fall into the crack of the back seat and are a difficult to locate. In the past, you could simply go to your local hardware store or auto locksmith and purchase a new replacement keys for cars.
Today it can be an expensive proposition in the case of a vehicle equipped with the latest technology, such as push-to-start and key fob technology. Key fobs and remote transmitters used in these systems are miniature electronic devices, and are packed with electronics that can be quite costly to replace in the event that you lose them.
You should therefore consider an insurance plan for your key fob which covers up to $400 dollars per key lost or stolen. These plans are usually only a small fraction of the total Mobile replacement car keys costs and include unlimited replacements for stolen or lost keys, in addition to other benefits like towing or roadside assistance.
The type of key that you own will also impact the cost. Certain keys are more expensive to replace. For example, basic metal keys with no key fob are fairly inexpensive because they’re mechanical and can be replaced by an expert locksmith or mechanic. If your key is equipped with a transponder chip, it’ll require special equipment to duplicate. These devices are available from car dealers or manufacturers and are a significant factor in the cost.
Laser cut keys can increase the cost of keys for replacement on automobiles, as they are thicker. They are made of metal that is then molded into a particular shape, then cut using precision lasers for a perfect fit.
2. Key Fob
Not too long ago lost car keys was a nuisance. You could get an alternative key from a locksmith shop or a car dealership, and it was likely affordable to purchase it. As automobiles have become more technologically advanced as have their keys. This means that replacing a lost key could be more expensive.
Key fobs became popular during the 1990s as an additional feature that allowed car owners to lock and unlock their car without the need for a physical key. These small plastic fobs contain the button that, when pressed, communicates to the computer onboard of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some include a button that allows you to activate the vehicle’s alarm system or open the trunk.
An automotive locksmith can cut a key without a remote at the cost of a small fee. It’s the same as those produced prior to 1990. Some locksmiths will even replace a lost fob while you are waiting.
Fobs with a transponder or another chip could be more expensive to replace than standard ones. These can cost upwards of $200 to reprogram and pair with the new car and are usually only available through the original car dealer.
Many businesses that work with cars, including auto repair shops, car dealerships, and salvage yards may end with a number of spare fobs that aren’t tied to a particular vehicle. Some of them could be offered to consumers, however certain require specialized equipment and technical expertise to program, which isn’t something that is easily accessible to the average consumer. This is why it’s always ideal to keep a spare car key in your purse or pocket, and also add GEICO’s Emergency Roadside Service to your policy to make it even more convenient should you ever need to use it.
3. Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser-cut keys have ridges that are deeper in comparison to traditional mechanical keys. This makes them more difficult for car thieves to steal.
The key blades have slits on both sides that permit keys to be inserted into the ignition cylinder as well as the door lock from either side. They are the most popular kind of car keys that are in circulation in the present. They are more popular than key fobs, because they offer more security and convenience.
If you’re interested in having a laser-cut key made for your car, it is important to make sure that the company cutting keys has the proper equipment. Otherwise, you’ll end up with a key that doesn’t work properly. You should also be aware of the quality of the blade, since low-quality blades can damage the key cutting machine or even break within your ignition cylinder.
The locksmith will need your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a laser-cut key. Once they have this information, they can run it through a computer system to retrieve the specifications of your specific car. Then, they’ll make use of a CNC to cut the key according to these specifications.
They are usually only available through dealerships. They are more affordable than traditional key fobs however, they also have the added benefit of being hard to duplicate.
Labor costs for a typical laser-cut all-in-one key could range from $150 to $250. These keys have to be programmed by the dealer. They are nevertheless 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, and also start the engine. These newer keys are not mechanical keys that can be easily duplicated by locksmiths and key cutters. Instead, they come with transponder chip technology integrated into. The chip has to be paired by an auto locksmith or dealer with the vehicle. The fobs are typically more expensive, and range from $50 to $100 for the basic version to $200 for models with push-to-start features.
Fobs that have what’s known as a switchblade, which folds up when not in use. generally cost more to replace. These keys have shanks that retract into the fob, which then is released at the push of a button when needed. They are usually much more secure than standard keys, which makes them a great deterrent to thieves. They are also a good alternative for those who need an extra car key for valet usage. The cost of replacing these keys ranges from $100 to $300 depending on the type of vehicle and the type.
These electronic keys are lighter and simpler to use than the old crank keys, which were heavy, complicated and hazardous to use. They also make it harder for thieves to steal them, as they are cylindrical. This prevents the use of key duplicate devices used by criminals to copy your car keys.
Electronic keys can open doors and start engines without needing 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 fee.
5. Transponder Keys
In contrast to mechanical keys keys have a chip in them that transmits the radio frequency signal to the car when it is inserted into the ignition. The computer system in the vehicle analyzes the signal to determine whether the serial number matches the one on the key. If it does, the vehicle will let the key unlock the door and begin the engine. This is done to prevent car thefts by making it harder to wire a car hot and to start the engine.
Theoretically it’s possible that this technology will work However, car thieves who are smart constantly find ways to defeat it. In addition, the chips that are in these keys aren’t as long-lasting as many would like to believe. They are able to be easily washed out, which could result in the key not functioning.
The cost of replacing a transponder key can be a significant expense. The key blank can cost as much as $50. Programming it is a cost additional. This requires a special machine that’s only found in car dealerships.
It is recommended to employ a professional locksmith who has the necessary tools to program transponder keys. It is also an excellent idea to have 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, which could save you money in the end. A locksmith can program a transponder key typically for $150, however for cars with push-to-start capabilities with remote transmitters and key fobs it could cost up to $180. These keys require a specific service that can only be performed by a certified Locksmith.