Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
It is crucial to understand the cost involved when you lose your car key. You can get a copy of a standard car key from any hardware shop, but a smart key might require you to visit a locksmith or dealer.
There are ways to save money on your device if it is not damaged and doesn't require reprogramming.
1. Type of Key
Car keys have the bizarre ability to disappear into unexpected places. They can be hard to locate, whether they disappear from your pocket when you're shopping, get stuck between the couch cushions or fall into a crack in the back seat. In the past, you could pop into your local hardware or auto locksmith store to get a replacement.
It's expensive to replace a key fob or remote transmitter if you have an automobile that is equipped with advanced technology. auto car key replacement G28 on key fobs and remote transmitters which are tiny electronic devices. They're also stuffed with circuitry, making them expensive to replace in the event of the loss.
Consider a key fob insurance plan that covers up to 400 dollars per key that is stolen or lost. These plans typically cost less than the total cost of replacement and offer unlimited lost or stolen key replacements and additional benefits such as towing coverage and roadside assistance, among others.
The type of key you have will also affect the cost. Certain keys are more expensive to replace. Simple metal keys that do not have keys with a fob, for example are fairly inexpensive, as they're mechanical, and can be replaced by an experienced locksmith or mechanic. If your key contains a transponder, you'll need special equipment to duplicate it. These devices are usually available at dealerships or car manufacturers, and could be a major driver of the overall cost.
Laser cut keys are a different factor that could increase the cost of replacing a car key, since they are usually heavier than regular keys. They are made of metal that is molded into an exact shape, and then cut with lasers that are precise to ensure a perfect fit.
2. Key Fob
The loss of keys to your car used be a minor inconvenience. A locksmith or car dealer could sell you a replacement key which was probably affordable. However, as cars have evolved in terms of technology as well, so 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 '90s as an extra feature to allow car owners to lock and unlock their vehicle without a physical key. These small plastic fobs have the button that, when hit 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.
An automotive locksmith can cut a key without a remote for a small charge. This is similar to keys made before 1990. Some locksmiths will even replace a lost fob while you wait.
Fobs that contain transponders or another computer chip can be more costly to replace than standard ones. These can cost upwards of $200 to reprogram and connect to a new vehicle, and they are generally only available through the original car dealer.
Many businesses that deal with vehicles, such as auto repair shops and car dealerships could have a large number of spare fobs. Some of these can be offered to consumers, however others require special equipment and technical expertise to make use of, something that is easily accessible to the average consumer. 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 it easier if you need it.
3. Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser-cut keys have more ridges, unlike traditional mechanical keys. They make them harder for thieves in cars to duplicate.
They also have slits that are inserted into both sides of the key blades that allow them to be put into the door and ignition cylinder lock from either direction. These are the most popular car keys on the market today. They are more popular than key fobs because they provide greater security and convenience.
It is essential that the place cutting the keys has the right equipment. Otherwise, you'll end up with a key that doesn't perform as expected. You should also be aware of the quality of the blade, since poor quality blades can cause damage to 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-cut key. Once they have this information, they will run it through an electronic system to find the specifications specific to your vehicle. Then, they'll make use of a CNC to cut the key to these specifications.
They are typically only available through dealers. They are cheaper than traditional key fobs but they also have the added benefit of being difficult to duplicate.
The cost of labor for a typical laser-cut all in-one key will likely range between $150-$250. These keys need to be programmed by the dealer. They are among the most convenient and secure keys for cars that are available today.
4. Switchblade Keys
Many modern cars have key fobs that lock and unlock the doors, as well as start the engine. These aren't mechanical keys that can be easily duplicated by locksmiths and key cutters. Instead, they come with transponder chip technology built in. This chip must be connected by an auto locksmith or dealer with the vehicle. These fobs are generally more expensive, and range between $50 and $100 for the basic version to $200 for models with push-to-start functions.
Fobs that contain what's known as a switchblade, that folds in itself when not in use. typically cost more to replace. These keys have shanks that retract into the fob, which pops out at the push of a button when needed. They are typically more secure than traditional keys, which makes them a great deterrent for thieves and a great alternative for those in need of an extra car key to allow valet use. The cost of changing these keys ranges anywhere between $100 and $300 depending on the car and type of key.
These electronic keys are lighter and easier to use than the old crank keys that were difficult, heavy and hazardous to use. These car keys also make it more difficult for thieves to steal them since they are cylinder-shaped. This blocks the use of key duplicate devices used by criminals to copy your car keys.
These keys that are completely electronic communicate electronically to open doors and start the engine. Some keys are even able to do this without having to be removed from the pocket of the driver. The process of changing these kinds of keys to cars can be costly and usually require a visit to the dealer and may or may not include a towing fee.
5. Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are different from mechanical keys in that they feature an electronic chip that transmits an audio-frequency signal to the vehicle when the key is put in the ignition. The signal is then analyzed by the vehicle's computer system to determine whether it is in line with the serial number of the key. If it does, the car will allow the key to unlock the door and begin the engine. The purpose behind this is to stop car theft by making it more difficult to hot wire a car and then start the engine.
In the theory of it, this is efficient but the most sophisticated car thieves are always trying to outwit this technology. Furthermore, the chips inside these types of keys aren't as durable as some would like to believe. They are prone to being destroyed quickly, which can lead to the key not working at all.
The cost of replacing transponder keys could be high. The cost of the key blank could be up to $50. Programming it is an additional cost. This process requires a special machine that's only found in car dealerships.
It is recommended to employ a professional locksmith who has the tools to program transponder keys. It is also a good idea to have your vehicle's details ready, such as the year, make, and model. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used and could save you money in the long run. A locksmith can program a transponder keys typically for $150, however for push-to start cars equipped with remote transmitters and key fobs it could cost up to $180. These keys require a specific service that is only done by a licensed locksmith.