Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
If you lose your car key, it's important to know the different costs involved. You can find a duplicate of a basic car key at any hardware store, however a smart key may require you to visit a locksmith or dealer.
There are ways to save money if your device is only damaged and is not in need of programming.
1. Type of Key
Car keys have a peculiar ability to disappear in strange places. They can be lost in your purse while shopping, get wedged between the sofa cushions, or fall down the crack of the back seat and are a bit hard to find. In the past, you could go to your local hardware store or auto locksmith and get a new replacement.
These days however, it can be an expensive proposition if you're driving a vehicle equipped with the latest technology, such as key fob technology or push-to-start. Key fobs or remote transmitters that work with these systems are miniature electronic devices, and are packed with circuitry that could cause them to be expensive to replace in the event that you lose them.
Consider the possibility of a key fob insurance policy which covers up to $400 dollars per key stolen or lost. These plans usually cost less than the total cost of replacement and offer unlimited key replacements for lost or stolen keys as well as additional benefits like towing insurance and roadside assistance, among other things.
The type of key you own will also impact the cost. Certain keys are more expensive to replace. For example, basic metal keys that don't have a key fob are fairly inexpensive because they're mechanical, and can be easily replaced by an expert locksmith or mechanic. If your keys have a transponder, you'll need specialized equipment to duplicate it. These devices are typically accessible through dealerships or car manufacturers and can be a major contributor to the total cost.
Laser cut keys can increase the price of a replacement key for a car, as they are more substantial. They are made from metal that's molded into an exact shape, and then cut with lasers to ensure a precise fit.
2. Key Fob
Not too long ago the loss of your car keys was a nuisance. A car dealer or locksmith would sell keys to replace them which was probably cheap. As cars have technologically advanced as do their keys. This means that replacing a lost key could be more expensive.
In the 1990s, key fobs became popular as a method to lock and unlock the vehicle without requiring the physical keys of a car. These small plastic fobs contain the button that, when pressed sends a signal to the computer of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some include a button that allows you to activate the alarm system of the vehicle or open the trunk.
A traditional key without a fob is akin to those that were made prior to the '90s and can be cut by an auto locksmith for a fee. Some locksmiths can even replace the fob that was lost while you are waiting.
Fobs with a transponder or another chip can be more costly to replace than traditional ones. These can cost upwards of $200 to reprogram and connect to an entirely new vehicle and are usually only available through the original car dealer.
Many businesses that deal with cars such as auto repair shops or dealerships may end up with lots of spare fobs. Some of these are available to the general public, while others require special equipment or technical expertise to program. This isn't something that the average person can do. It's best to always keep an extra key in your purse or pocket. You can also include GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your insurance policy to make things even easier if you need it.
3. Keys Laser Cut Keys
Contrary to traditional mechanical keys laser-cut keys feature deeper grooves and ridges. They make them harder for car thieves to duplicate.
They also have slits that are inserted into both sides of the blade, which allows them to be inserted into the door and the ignition cylinder lock in either direction. They are the most commonly used kind of car keys that are available in the present. They are more popular than key fobs because they provide greater security and convenience.
If you're considering having a laser-cut key made for your vehicle, it's important to make sure that the shop that is cutting them has the right equipment. You'll end up with an unusable key that doesn't function properly in the event that you don't. You must also be aware of the quality of the blade, because low-quality ones 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 car key replacements have your VIN, they can run the data through a computer to find the specifications of your vehicle. Then, they will use a CNC to cut the key according to these specifications.
They require specialized equipment to create, and are typically only available at dealerships. They are cheaper than traditional key fobs, however, they also have the added benefit of being hard to duplicate.
For an all-in-one key that is laser-cut you'll be required to shell out between $150 and $250 in labor costs. These keys need to be programmed by the dealer. replacement key for car near me are still one of the most secure and convenient car keys available today.
4. Switchblade Keys
A lot of modern cars have key fobs that lock and unlock doors, and start the engine. Unlike older mechanical keys, which work mechanically and are easily duplicated by key cutters or locksmiths the newer keys for cars have transponder chips built in that must be connected with the vehicle by a dealer or an auto locksmith. These fobs can be more expensive. They range from $50-$100 for the basic model up to $200 for models that have push-to-start functionality.
Fobs that have the "switchblade" key that folds up on itself when not being used they are typically more expensive to replace. The keys are equipped with shanks that retract into the fob, which can be released at the touch of a button whenever needed. They are more secure than standard keys, which makes them a great choice for those who need an extra key for valet use. Changing these keys can run anywhere from $100 to $300 depending on the car and type of key.
Unlike the old crank key, which was heavy, complicated and dangerous to use keys made of electronic technology are lightweight and more convenient. They also make it harder for thieves to steal them as they are cylindrical. This stops the use of key-duplicate devices used by criminals to copy your car keys.
These keys are electronic and can open doors and start engines without the driver having to remove them from their pockets. Making changes to these types of car keys could be costly and generally require a visit to the dealership which may or not include a towing charge.
5. Transponder Keys
Transponder keys differ from mechanical keys due to the fact that they feature an electronic chip that transmits a radio-frequency signal to the vehicle when the key is inserted in the ignition. The signal is then read by the vehicle's computer system to determine whether it matches the serial number of the key. If it is the key's serial number, the vehicle will allow the key to unlock the door and start the engine. The idea behind this is to prevent car theft by making it harder to connect a car's hot wire and start the engine.
Theoretically it is possible that this technology works However, car thieves who are smart constantly find ways to defeat it. In addition, the chips that are in these types of keys aren't as long-lasting as many would like to believe. They are prone to being destroyed easily, which could lead to the key not working at all.
The cost of replacing transponder keys can be expensive. The key blank can cost up to $50. Programming it is an additional expense. This process involves using an exclusive machine that is only available at dealerships for cars.
It is advisable to find a locksmith who has the appropriate equipment for programming transponder keys. It is also a good idea to have your car's information ready, such as the year model, make, and year. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used, and will save you money over time. A locksmith can program a transponder keys typically for $150, but for push-to start cars equipped with key fobs and remote transmitters it could cost as high as $180. These keys require a special service that is only done by a locksmith who is certified.