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Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
When you lose a car key, it's important to know the different costs that are involved. You can copy a basic key from any hardware store, whereas the smart key might require you to visit an auto dealer or locksmith.
However, if the fob isn't damaged and doesn't need reprogramming, there are ways to cut costs.
1. Type of Key
Car keys have a peculiar ability to disappear into unexpected places. They can be hard to locate, whether they disappear from your purse when you're out shopping, get stuck between your couch cushions or fall into a crack in the back of your car. In the past, this meant that you could just pop into your local hardware store or auto locksmith and get a new replacement.
It's expensive to replace a key fob or remote transmitter if you drive an automobile with the latest technology. These systems rely on remote transmitters and key fobs that are tiny electronic devices. They're also stuffed with circuitry, which makes them costly to replace in the event of an eventual loss.
It is recommended to consider the possibility of a key fob insurance policy which 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 such as towing and roadside assistance.
The type of key that you have will also affect the cost. Certain keys are more expensive to replace. Simple metal keys that do not have a key fob for instance are relatively inexpensive because they're mechanical and can be replaced by an experienced locksmith or mechanic. If your key has a transponder chip, it'll require special equipment to duplicate. These devices are available from car manufacturers or dealerships and can be a major factor in the cost.
Laser cut keys are a different factor that can increase the cost of a replacement car key, as these are usually more substantial than regular car keys. They are made of metal that is then molded into the desired shape, and then are cut using lasers that are precisely calibrated to ensure a perfect fit.
2. Key Fob
Losing keys to your car used to be a minor inconvenience. You could purchase keys replacements from a locksmith shop or a car dealership and it was inexpensive to purchase one. As automobiles have become more technologically advanced and so have their keys. This means that replacing a lost key can be more expensive.
Key fobs were popular in the 1990s as an additional feature to allow car owners to lock and unlock their car without the need for a physical key. The small plastic fobs come with a button which when pressed by the user, sends a signal to the computer onboard to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some also have a button to activate the vehicle's alarm system or open the trunk.
A key that is not fitted with a fob is similar to the ones made prior to the 1990s, and can be cut by an auto locksmith for a fee. Some locksmiths will even replace the fob that was lost while you wait.
It's more expensive to replace a fob with an electronic chip or transponder than if it were an old-fashioned one. Reprogramming and pairing them can cost up to $200 and are only available through the original car dealer.
Many businesses that deal with vehicles, such as auto repair shops and dealerships might end up with lots of spare fobs. Some of these are available to consumers, while others require specialized equipment or technical expertise to program. remote car key replacement isn't something that a typical consumer can do. This is why it's ideal to keep an extra car key in your pocket or purse, and add GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service to your insurance policy to make it more convenient in the event that you need to use it.
3. Keys Laser Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys have ridges that are deeper unlike mechanical keys. They are also more difficult for thieves in cars to duplicate.
They also have slits inserted into both sides of the key blade that allow them to be placed into the door or the ignition cylinder lock from either direction. These are the most common kind of car keys that are in circulation today. They are more sought-after than traditional keys because they offer a higher level of security and convenience.
It is essential that the shop cutting the keys is equipped with the proper equipment. If not, you'll end up with a key that does not function properly. You should also be aware of the quality of the blade, because low-quality ones can damage the key cutting machine or even break inside your ignition cylinder.
To cut a laser-cut key locksmiths will need to have your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have this information, they can run it through an electronic system to find the specifications for your specific vehicle. They will then use the CNC to cut the key in accordance with these specifications.
They are generally only available through dealers. They are more affordable than traditional key fobs but they also have an added benefit of being hard to duplicate.
For an all-in-one key that is laser-cut you'll need to pay between $150 and $250 for labor costs. This is because these types of key need to be programmed by the dealership. However, they are one of the most secure and practical keys for cars on the market today.
4. Switchblade Keys
Many modern vehicles use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, as well as turn on the engine. These newer keys are not mechanical keys that can be easily duplicated by locksmiths or key cutters. Instead, they have transponder chip technology integrated into. This chip must be connected by an auto locksmith or dealer to the vehicle. These fobs can be more expensive. They range from $50-$100 in the basic model, and up to $200 for models that have push-to-start functions.
Fobs with what's referred to as a switchblade key, which folds into itself when not in use. generally cost more to replace. These keys come with shanks that retract into the fob, and then pop out when required. They are generally more secure than traditional keys, which makes them a great deterrent to thieves. They are also a good alternative for those in need of an extra car key to allow valet usage. The cost of replacing these keys ranges between $100 and $300 depending on the type of vehicle and the type.
Unlike the old crank key, which was heavy, complicated, and dangerous to handle keys that are electronic are lighter and easier to use. They also make it more difficult for thieves to steal them, because they are cylindrical. This blocks the use of key duplicate devices used by criminals to copy your car key.
These wholly electronic car keys communicate electronically to open doors and start the engine. Some keys are able to do this without having to be removed from the pocket of the driver. The process of changing these kinds of keys for cars could be costly and typically require a trip to the dealership which may or not include a towing cost.
5. Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are different from mechanical keys in that they have the chip that sends an audio-frequency signal to the vehicle when the key is inserted in the ignition. The computer system in the vehicle scans the signal to determine whether the serial number matches the one on the key. If it does, the vehicle will allow the key unlock the door and also start the engine. This is to stop car thefts by making it more difficult to connect a car's hot wire and also to start the engine.
In theory, this is effective but the most sophisticated car thieves are always trying to outwit this technology. The chips in these keys aren't as durable as people like to believe. They are able to be easily washed out, which can result in the key not working.
The cost of replacing transponder keys can be high. The cost of the key blank could be as much as $50. Programming it is a cost additional. This procedure requires a specific machine that is only available in dealerships for cars.
It is advisable to find locksmiths with the right equipment to program transponder keys. It is also a good idea to have your vehicle's details prepared, such as the year model, make, and year of the vehicle. This will ensure that the right key blank is used and can save you money over time. A locksmith can program a transponder-type key typically for $150, however for push-to-start cars with key fobs and remote transmitters it could cost up to $180. These keys require a specialized service that can only be performed by a certified Locksmith.