Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
It is crucial to understand the costs involved if you lose your car key. You can copy a standard key from any hardware store, but the smart key might require you to visit an auto dealer or locksmith.
But, if the fob is damaged but doesn't need to be reprogrammed there are ways to cut costs.
1. Type of Key
Car keys have an uncanny ability to disappear in the most surprising places. They can be lost in your purse while shopping, or get stuck between the couch cushions, or fall into the crack of the back seat and are a bit hard to find. In the past, you could go to your local auto locksmith or hardware store to get a replacement.
It's costly to replace the key fob or remote transmitter if you have an automobile with the latest technology. The key fobs or remote transmitters used in these systems are miniature electronic devices that are packed with circuitry that can be quite costly to replace in the event that you lose them.
It is recommended to consider the possibility of a key fob insurance policy that covers up to $400 dollars per key stolen or lost. These plans typically represent only a small fraction of the cost of replacement, and include unlimited replacements for lost or stolen keys, as well as additional benefits like towing or roadside assistance.
The type of key you own will also impact the cost. Certain keys are more expensive to replace. For instance, basic metal keys that don't have a key fob are quite affordable, because they're mechanical and can be replaced by an experienced locksmith or mechanic. However, if your key is equipped with a transponder chip, it'll require specialized equipment to duplicate. These machines are only available from car dealers or manufacturers and can be a major factor in the cost.
Laser cut keys are yet another aspect that can raise the cost of replacing a car key, since they are usually thicker than regular car keys. They are fashioned from metal that is molded into an exact shape, and then cut using lasers that are precise to ensure a precise fit.
2. Key Fob
Not too long ago, losing your car keys was a nuisance. A car dealer or locksmith would sell you a replacement key, which was probably relatively inexpensive. As automobiles have become more technologically advanced, so do their keys. This means that replacing a lost key can be more expensive.
Key fobs were popular in the 90s as an added feature to allow car owners to lock and unlock their vehicles without the need for a physical key. These tiny plastic keys have the button that, when pressed by the user, sends a signal to the computer onboard to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some have buttons that activate the security system of the vehicle or unlock 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 automotive locksmith for a small charge. Some locksmiths will be able to replace your fob while they are waiting.
It's more costly to replace a fob that contains an electronic chip or transponder as opposed to a traditional one. see this page can cost up to $200 to reprogram and pair with an entirely new vehicle and are typically only available through the original car dealer.
Many companies that deal with vehicles, such as auto repair shops, car dealerships and salvage yards may end having a lot of spare fobs not tied to a particular vehicle. Some of these can be offered to consumers, however some require special equipment and technical expertise to make use of, something that is easily accessible to the average consumer. It's a good idea to keep an extra key in your purse or pocket. You can also include GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your policy to make things even easier in the event of need.
3. Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys
Contrary to traditional mechanical keys laser-cut keys have deeper ridges and grooves. This makes them less prone to car thieves to steal.
They also have slits inserted into both sides of the key blade that allow them to be put into the door and the ignition cylinder lock in either direction. These are the most common kind of car keys available today. They are more sought-after than traditional keys because they provide a higher degree of security and ease of use.
If you're interested in getting a laser-cut key for your car, it's essential to make sure the shop that is cutting keys has the appropriate equipment. You'll end with keys that don't function properly if you don't. Be aware of the quality of the blade, as low-quality blades can damage the cutting mechanism of the key or even break within your ignition cylinder.
The locksmith will require your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a laser-cutted key. Once they have your VIN, they can run the data through a computer to find the specifications of your car. They will then use a CNC machine to cut the key based on these specifications.
They are generally only available from dealerships. They are however, less costly than traditional key fobs, and are also a bonus for being hard to duplicate.
The cost of labor for a typical laser-cut all-in-one key could range from $150 and $250. The keys must be programmed by the dealer. They are still one of the most secure and convenient car keys 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 which work mechanically and are easily duplicated by key cutters or locksmiths These newer car keys come with transponder chips that need to be paired with the vehicle by the dealer or an auto locksmith. These fobs are generally more expensive, ranging from $50 to $100 for the basic version to $200 for models with push-to-start capabilities.
Fobs with what's referred to as a switchblade key that folds in itself when not in use, generally cost more to replace. They have shanks that retract into the fob, and then pop out when required. They are generally more secure than traditional keys, making them a great deterrent for thieves and a great alternative for those in need of an extra car key for valet use. The cost of changing these keys varies between $100-$300 depending on the car and the type.
Unlike the old crank key, which was complex, heavy, and dangerous to handle keys made of electronic technology are light and easy to handle. The car keys also make it harder for thieves to steal them, because they are cylindrical. This stops the use of key duplicate devices used by criminals to copy your car key.
These keys are electronic and can open doors and start engines without needing to take them out of their pockets. These keys are expensive to replace and require an excursion to the dealer, which might include a towing cost.
5. Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are different from mechanical keys in that they have a chip that transmits a radio-frequency signal to vehicle when the key is inserted in the ignition. The computer system of the vehicle analyzes the signal to determine whether the serial number matches the one on the key. If it does the key's serial number, the vehicle will allow keys to unlock the doors and also start the engine. This is to stop car thefts by making it difficult to hot-wire a car and to start the engine.
In theory, this is effective, however, smart car thieves are constantly trying to outwit this technology. The chips in the keys aren't as durable as people think. They are easily cleaned out, which can result in the key not working.
The cost of replacing transponder keys can be high. The key blank itself could cost upwards of $50, and then there's the added expense of programming it. This requires a special machine, which is only available at dealerships for cars.
It is therefore recommended to hire a professional locksmith who has the necessary equipment to program transponder keys. It is also a good 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 right key blank is used, and will save you money over time. Locksmiths can program a transponder-type key typically for $150, however for push-to start cars equipped with key fobs and remote transmitters, it could cost up to $180. These keys require a specific programming service that can be performed only by a licensed locksmith.