20 Things Only The Most Devoted Cost Replacement Car Key Fans Should Know
Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
When you lose a car key, it's important to know the different costs involved. You can get a copy of a car key from any hardware store, but 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 is not in need of reprogramming.
1. Type of Key
Car keys have the ability to disappear in the most surprising places. They can be difficult to locate, whether they slip out of your purse when you're out shopping, are stuck between the couch cushions, or fall into the crack in the back of your car. In the past, you could simply visit your local auto locksmith or hardware store to purchase a replacement.
car key replacements to replace a key fob or remote transmitter if you own a vehicle that has advanced technology. Key fobs and remote transmitters used in these systems are tiny electronic devices, and they're packed with circuitry that can make them quite expensive to replace if you lose them.
Consider a key fob insurance plan which covers up to $400 dollars per key that is stolen or lost. These plans are usually a fraction of total replacement costs and include unlimited replacements for stolen or lost keys, as well as additional benefits like towing or roadside assistance.
The type of key you have will also impact the cost and some keys are more expensive to replace than other. Metal keys that don't have keys with a fob, for example are fairly inexpensive, as they're mechanical, and can be replaced by a professional mechanic or locksmith. However, if the key is equipped with a transponder chip, it'll require specialized equipment to duplicate. These devices are typically accessible through dealerships or car manufacturers, and could be a major factor in the total cost.
Laser cut keys are another factor that can increase the cost of a replacement car key, because they are usually more substantial than regular car keys. They are made from metal that is then molded into an exact shape, then cut using lasers that are precisely calibrated to ensure the perfect fit.
2. Key Fob
Not too long ago, losing your car keys was not a big nuisance. You could buy an alternative key from a locksmith shop or a car dealership, and it was likely relatively cheap to do so. However as automobiles have become more technologically advanced and so have keys, and that means replacing a lost one can be much more expensive than it was in the past.
In the 1990s, key fobs became widely used to lock and unlock a vehicle without using a physical car key. The tiny plastic fobs include a 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 alarm system in the vehicle or open the trunk.
A locksmith for cars can cut traditional keys without a remote for the cost of a small fee. This is exactly the same as keys that were made prior to 1990. Some locksmiths will repair the fob that was lost while they are waiting.
It can be more expensive to replace a fob that has a computer chip or transponder than if it were a traditional one. They can cost up to $200 to reprogram and connect to a new vehicle, and they are generally only available through the dealer who sold the original car.
Many businesses who work with cars, such as auto repair shops and dealerships may end up with lots of spare fobs. Some of them are accessible to consumers, while others require specialized equipment or technical knowledge to program. This is not something that the average person can do. It is recommended to 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 even easier in the event of need.
3. Laser Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys have ridges that are deeper unlike mechanical keys. This makes them harder for car thieves to steal.
They also have slits tooled into the sides of the key blades that allow them to be put into the door and the ignition cylinder lock from either direction. These are the most well-known car keys available today. They are more popular than key fobs because they provide greater security and convenience.
It is important that the company cutting the keys has the proper equipment. Otherwise, you'll end with a key that doesn't function properly. You must also be aware of the quality of the blade, since poor quality blades can cause damage to the key cutting machine or even break the ignition cylinder.
To cut a laser-cut key locksmiths require your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have this information, they can run it through a computer system to retrieve the specifications for your specific vehicle. They will then use a CNC to cut the key in accordance with these specifications.
They require specialized equipment to make, and they are usually only available at dealerships. They are however, less costly than traditional key fobs, and have the added bonus of being extremely difficult to duplicate.
For a typical all-in-one laser cut key you'll have to pay between $150 and $250 in labor costs. This is because these types of keys must be programmed by the dealership. They remain among the most secure and convenient keys for cars that are available today.
4. Switchblade Keys
Many modern vehicles use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, and turn on the engine. In contrast to older mechanical keys that operate mechanically and are easily duplicated by key cutters or locksmiths These newer car keys have transponder chips built in that must be connected with the vehicle by the dealer or an auto locksmith. The fobs are typically more expensive, ranging between $50 and $100 for the basic model, and up to $200 for models that have push-to-start functions.
Fobs with what's referred to as a switchblade, which folds up when not in use, generally cost more to replace. These keys have shanks which retract into the fob and are released when needed. They are usually much safer than traditional keys, which makes them a powerful deterrent for thieves. They are also a good alternative for those in need of an extra car key for valet use. The cost of changing these keys can range between $100-$300, depending on the vehicle and the type of key.
Unlike the old crank key that was complex, heavy and dangerous to handle keys made of electronic technology are light and easy to handle. These car keys are also much more difficult to steal as they are cylindrical, which helps to prevent the use of key duplicate devices used by criminals to create illegal copies of your car's key.
These wholly electronic car keys communicate electronically to open doors and begin the engine - some are even able to do so without having to be taken from the pocket of the driver. The process of changing these kinds of car keys can be expensive and will typically require a trip to the dealer which may or not include a towing fee.
5. Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are different from mechanical keys in that they have an electronic chip that transmits an audio-frequency signal to the vehicle when the key is inserted in the ignition. The computer system in the vehicle analyzes the signal to determine whether the serial number matches that of the key. If it does, the vehicle will let the key unlock the door and begin the engine. This is done to prevent car thefts by making it harder to connect a car's hot wire and to start the engine.
In the theory of it, this is efficient but smart car thieves are constantly trying to outwit this technology. In addition, the chips that are in these keys are not as durable as people would like to believe. They are easily cleaned out, resulting in the key not working.
The cost of replacing a transponder key can be a significant expense. The key blank can cost upwards of $50, and then there's the additional expense of having it programmed. This process involves using a special machine, which is only available at dealerships for cars.
It is therefore recommended to employ a professional locksmith with the right tools to program transponder keys. It is also a good idea to have your vehicle's information ready, including the year, make, and model. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used and can save you money over time. Locksmiths can program a transponder keys typically for $150, however for cars with push-to-start capabilities with key fobs and remote transmitters, it could cost up to $180. car key replacements require a specific service that can only be done by a locksmith who is certified.