Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
If you lose your car key, it's important to be aware of the various costs associated with. You can get a copy of a standard car key at any hardware store, however a smart key may require you to go to a locksmith or dealer.
There are ways to save money on your device if it is only damaged and does not need to be reprogrammed.
1. Key Type
Car keys have the bizarre ability to disappear in strange places. They can be hard to find, whether they slip out of your purse when you're out shopping, are stuck between the sofa cushions or fall into the crack in the back seat. In the past, you could pop into your local hardware or auto locksmith store to get a replacement.
Nowadays, however, that can be quite costly when you're driving a car that is equipped with modern technology, such as key fob technology and push-to-start. These systems rely on key fobs and remote transmitters which are tiny electronic devices. They're also packed with circuitry, which makes them expensive to replace in the event of the loss.
This is why you should consider obtaining an insurance replacement for your key fob plan, which covers up to $400 per lost or stolen key. These plans typically cost less than total cost of replacement and offer unlimited lost or stolen key replacements as well as additional benefits such as towing coverage and roadside assistance, among other things.
The type of key you're using also impacts the cost and some keys are more costly to replace than others. For instance, basic keys made of metal with no fob are relatively inexpensive, since they're mechanical and can be replaced by an expert locksmith or mechanic. However, if your key has a transponder chip, it'll require specialized equipment to copy. These machines are only available from car dealerships or manufacturers and can be a major factor in the cost.
Laser cut keys may increase the cost of keys for replacement on cars, since they are more substantial. They are made from metal that is molded into an exact shape, and then cut using precision lasers to ensure a precise fit.
2. Key Fob
Not too long ago, losing your car keys was just a problem. A car dealer or locksmith could sell keys to replace them, which was probably relatively inexpensive. However as automobiles have evolved in terms of technology, so too have their keys, and that means replacing a lost key can be more expensive than it used to be.
Key fobs were popular in the 1990s as an additional feature that allowed car owners to lock and unlock their car without the need for a physical key. The small plastic fobs have the button that, when pressed signals to the onboard computer of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some also have a button to activate the alarm system of the vehicle or open the trunk.
A traditional key without a fob is akin to those made prior to the 1990s, and can be cut by an auto locksmith for a small fee. Some locksmiths will even replace lost fobs while you are waiting.
It's more costly to replace a fob that has a computer chip or transponder than if it were an ordinary one. They can cost as high as $200 to reprogram and connect to an entirely new vehicle, and they are generally only available through the dealer who sold the original car.
Many businesses who work with vehicles, such as auto repair shops or dealerships could have a large number of spare fobs. Some are available to the public, whereas others require special equipment or technical skills to program. This is not something that the average consumer could do. It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your wallet or purse. You can also include GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your insurance policy to make things simpler if you require it.
3. key replacement car -cut keys have deeper ridges in comparison to traditional mechanical keys. This makes them harder for car thieves.
They also have slits inserted into the sides of the key blade that allow them to be placed into the door or ignition cylinder lock from either direction. These are the most popular car keys on the market today. They are more popular than traditional key fobs due to the fact that they provide a higher degree of security and comfort.
If you're considering getting a laser-cut key for your car, it's important to make sure that the company cutting them has the right equipment. Otherwise, you'll end up with a key that does not perform as expected. You must also be aware of the quality of the blade, as low-quality ones can damage the cutting mechanism of the key or even break inside 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 in order to determine the specifications of your vehicle. They will then use the CNC machine to cut the key in accordance with these specifications.
They require specialized machinery to create, and are generally only available through dealerships. However, they are less costly than traditional key fobs and also have the benefit of being hard to duplicate.
Labor costs for a typical laser-cut all in-one key can range from $150 and $250. The keys must be programmed by the dealer. They remain among the most convenient and secure car keys available today.
4. Switchblade Keys
Modern cars typically have key fobs that lock and unlock doors as well as start the engine. In contrast to older mechanical keys which are mechanical and easily duplicated by locksmiths or key cutters the newer keys for cars contain transponder chips which must be linked with the vehicle by a dealer or an auto locksmith. These keys are more expensive. They vary from $50-$100 in the basic model, and up to $200 for models with push-to-start functions.
Fobs that have what's known as a switchblade, which folds up when not in use. generally cost more to replace. The keys are equipped with shanks that retract into the fob, which is released at the push of a button whenever needed. They are typically safer than traditional keys, making them a great deterrent to thieves. They are also a good alternative for those in need of an extra car key for valet usage. Changing these keys can run anywhere from $100 to $300 based on the car and the type of key.
The electronic keys are lighter and easier to use than the old crank keys that were extremely heavy, complicated and hazardous to use. They also make it harder for thieves to steal them, since they are cylinder-shaped. This blocks the use of key-duplicate machines used by criminals to copy your car keys.
The keys are entirely electronic and communicate electronically to open doors and start the engine. Some are even able to do so without being removed from the driver's pocket. Changing these types of keys for cars could be costly and typically require a trip to the dealer, which may or may not include a towing fee.
5. Transponder Keys
In contrast to mechanical keys keys have a chip in them that relays an audio frequency signal to the car whenever it is placed in the ignition. The computer system in the vehicle analyzes the signal to determine if 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. The purpose behind this is to deter car theft by making it harder to connect a car's hot wire and then start the engine.
Theoretically it's possible that this technology will work However, car thieves who are smart always find ways to beat it. In addition, the chips that are in these keys are not as durable as many would like to believe. They are easily cleaned out, resulting in the key not working.
The cost of replacing transponder keys can be high. The key blank itself could cost up to $50 and then you have the additional expense of having it programmed. This process involves using a specific machine, which is only available at dealerships for cars.
It is recommended to find a locksmith professional who has the tools to program transponder keys. It is also a good idea to have your vehicle's details prepared, such as the year, make, and model. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used, which will save you money in the end. Locksmiths can usually program the new transponder key for around $150, but it can 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.