Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
It is important to be aware of the cost involved when you lose your car key. You can duplicate a basic key from any hardware store, but an electronic key will require you to visit a dealership or locksmith.
But, if the fob isn't damaged and doesn't require reprogramming there are ways to reduce costs.
1. Type of Key
Car keys have the bizarre ability to disappear in strange places. They can be lost in your purse during shopping, get wedged between the couch cushions, or fall down the crack in the back seat and are a difficult to locate. In the past, you could pop into your local auto locksmith or hardware shop to purchase a new.
It's costly to replace the key fob or remote transmitter if you have an automobile with the latest technology. Key fobs and remote transmitters that are used with these systems are miniature electronic devices that are packed with electronics that can make them quite expensive to replace in the event that you lose them.
You should therefore consider an insurance plan for your key fob which covers up to $400 dollars per key lost or stolen. These plans typically cover just a fraction of cost of replacement, and offer unlimited replacements for lost or stolen keys, in addition to other benefits such as towing and roadside assistance.
The type of key you have will also impact the cost, with some types being more expensive to replace than others. For instance, basic metal keys that don't have a key fob are quite affordable, because they're mechanical, and can be easily replaced by an expert locksmith or mechanic. If your keys have transponder, you'll need specialized equipment to duplicate it. These devices are usually accessible through dealerships or car manufacturers, and could be a major factor in 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 of metal that is molded to an exact shape, then cut using precision lasers for an exact fit.
2. Key Fob
Not too long ago the loss of your car keys was just a nuisance. You could purchase a replacement key from a locksmith or car dealership and it was relatively cheap to do so. However as cars have become more technologically advanced as well, so have their keys, and that means replacing a lost key could be a lot more expensive than it used to be.
In the 1990s, key fobs became popular as a method to unlock and lock vehicles without the use of a physical car key. The small plastic fobs have the button that, when pressed communicates to the computer onboard of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some also include a button that allows you to activate the vehicle's alarm system or open the trunk.
An automotive locksmith can cut a traditional key without a remote for a small charge. It's the same as those that were made prior to 1990. Some locksmiths will replace your lost fob while they are waiting.
It is more costly to replace a fob with a computer chip or transponder as opposed to a traditional one. Reprogramming and pairing them could cost upwards of $200 and are only available through the original dealer for cars.
Many companies that deal with cars, such as auto repair shops and car dealerships could have a large number of spare fobs. Some of them are accessible to consumers, while others require specialized equipment or technical knowledge to program. This isn't something that a typical consumer could do. It's best to always keep an extra key in your pocket or purse. You can also add GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your insurance policy to make things easier in the event of need.
3. Laser Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys have ridges that are deeper unlike mechanical keys. This makes them more difficult for car thieves.
They also have slits tooled into both sides of the key blades that allow them to be placed into the door or ignition cylinder lock from either direction. They are among the most sought-after car keys available today. They are more popular than key fobs, because they offer more security and convenience.
If you're interested in getting a laser-cut key for your vehicle, it's crucial to ensure that the place that cuts keys has the appropriate equipment. You'll end with an unusable key that doesn't function properly in the event that you don't. You should also be aware of the quality of the blade, as low-quality blades can damage the cutting mechanism of the key or even break inside your ignition cylinder.
The locksmith will need your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a laser-cut key. Once they have this information, they will run it through a computer system to get the specifications specific to your vehicle. They will then employ the CNC to cut the key according to these specifications.
They require specialized machinery to create, and are typically only available at dealerships. They are more affordable than traditional key fobs but they also have an added benefit of being hard to duplicate.
For a typical all-in-one laser-cut key you'll probably have to pay between $150 and $250 in labor costs. This is due to the fact that these types of keys must be programmed at the dealership. But, replacement car key near me are one of the most secure and reliable car keys on the market today.
4. Switchblade Keys
Modern cars often use key fobs that can lock and unlock doors and start the engine. These modern keys aren't mechanical keys that can be easily duplicated by locksmiths or key cutters. Instead, they come with transponder chip technology built in. The chip must be paired by an auto locksmith or dealer with the vehicle. These keys are more expensive. They range from $50-$100 for the basic model up to $200 for models with push-to-start capabilities.
Fobs with what's referred to as a switchblade key, which folds into itself when not in use, typically cost more to replace. They have shanks that retract into the fob, and then are released when needed. They are typically safer than traditional keys, which makes them a great deterrent to thieves and a great alternative for those who need an extra car key to allow valet usage. The cost of changing these keys varies between $100-$300 depending on the car and the type.
They are lighter and more user-friendly than the old crank keys which were heavy, complicated and dangerous to handle. They also make it more difficult for thieves to steal them as they are cylindrical. This blocks the use of key duplicate machines that criminals use to copy your car keys.
These electronic keys can open doors and start engines without the driver having to remove them from their pockets. The process of changing these kinds of car keys could be costly and generally require a visit to the dealer and may or may not include a towing cost.
5. Transponder Keys
Unlike mechanical keys, transponder keys have a chip in them that transmits an audio frequency signal to the car whenever it is inserted into 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 matches the serial number, the vehicle will let keys to unlock the doors and to start the engine. This is done to prevent car thefts by making it difficult to connect a car's hot wire and also to start the engine.
Theoretically, this technology is effective however, smart car thieves constantly find ways to defeat it. Furthermore, the chips inside these keys are not as durable as some would like to believe. They can be destroyed easily, which could result in the key not functioning 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 expense. This process requires a special machine that's only found at car dealerships.
It is best to hire locksmiths who have the proper equipment to program transponder keys. It is also an excellent idea to have all your vehicle's information ready, including the year, make and model. This will help ensure that the right key blank is used, which could save you money in the end. Locksmiths can usually program a new transponder key for around $150, however it could cost as much as $180 for cars that are equipped with remote transmitters or key fobs. These keys require a specific service that can only be performed by a certified Locksmith.