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 obtain a copy of a car key at any hardware store, but a smart key might require you to go to a locksmith or dealer.

However, if the device is merely 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 pocket while shopping, end up stuck between the sofa cushions or fall into the crack in the back seat. In the past, you could just pop into your local hardware store or auto locksmith and purchase a new replacement keys for car.

Today it can be an expensive proposition in the case of a vehicle that is equipped with modern technology, such as push-to-start and key fob technology. These systems make use of remote transmitters and key fobs which are tiny electronic devices. They're also packed with circuitry, which makes them costly to replace in the event of a loss.

Consider an insurance plan for your key fob that covers up to 400 dollars per key stolen or lost. These plans are usually just a fraction of cost of replacement car key fobs, and include unlimited replacements for stolen or lost keys, in addition to other benefits such as towing and roadside assistance.

The type of key that you have will also affect the cost. Some keys are more expensive to replace. For instance, basic keys made of metal with no fob are quite affordable, since they're mechanical and can be easily replaced by an experienced locksmith or mechanic. If your key is equipped with transponder chips, it will require special equipment to copy. These machines are available from car dealerships or manufacturers and could be a major factor in the cost.

Laser cut keys are another factor that can increase the cost of replacing a car key, as these are generally more substantial than regular car keys. They are made of metal that is then molded into an exact shape, and then cut using precision lasers for the perfect fit.

2. Key Fob

Not too long ago the loss of your car keys was a problem. You could purchase a replacement key from a locksmith or car dealership and it was affordable to purchase it. As automobiles have become more advanced in technology and so have their keys. This means that replacing a lost key could be more costly.

Key fobs became popular during the 90s as an added feature to allow car owners to lock and unlock their vehicle without a physical key. These small plastic fobs have a button which, when hit by the user sends a signal to the computer onboard to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some contain a button that can activate the alarm system of the vehicle or open the trunk.

An automotive locksmith can cut a traditional key without a remote at a small charge. This is the same as those that were made prior to 1990. Some locksmiths can even replace a lost fob while you wait.

Fobs that contain a transponder or another chip can be more costly to replace than traditional ones. Reprogramming and pairing them could cost upwards of $200 and are only available from the original car keys lost replacement dealer.

Many businesses that deal with vehicles, such as auto repair shops and dealerships might end up with a lot of spare fobs. Some of these can be sold to consumers, but others require special equipment and knowledge to make use of, something that's easily accessible to the common consumer. It's best to always keep an extra key in your pocket or purse. You can also include GEICO emergency car key replacement near me Roadside Service as part of your policy to make things even easier in the event of need.

3. Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys

Contrary to traditional mechanical keys laser-cut keys feature deeper grooves and ridges. They are also more difficult for thieves in cars to duplicate.

They also have slits tooled into the sides of the key car replacement blades that allow them to be inserted into the door and the ignition cylinder lock in either direction. These are the most common kind of car keys that are that are in circulation today. They are more popular than key fobs due to their more security and convenience.

It is crucial that the shop cutting the keys has the proper equipment. If not, you'll end up with a key that does not function properly. You must 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.

The locksmith will require your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a key using lasers. Once they have this information, they will run it through a computer system to retrieve the specifications specific to your vehicle. Then, they will use the CNC to cut the key to these specifications.

They require specialized machinery to create, and they are typically only available at dealerships. They are cheaper than traditional key fobs however, they also have the added benefit of being difficult to duplicate.

The labor costs for a typical laser-cut all-in-one key could range from $150 to $250. This is because these types of keys need to be programmed at the dealership. However, they are one of the most secure and reliable keys for cars on the market today.

4. Switchblade Keys

Many modern cars have key fobs that lock and unlock doors, and also start the engine. Contrary to the older mechanical keys which work mechanically and are easy to duplicate by key cutters or locksmiths, these newer car keys contain transponder chips which must be linked with the vehicle by a dealer or an auto locksmith. These keys are more expensive. They range from $50 to $100 for the basic model up to $200 for models that have push-to-start capabilities.

Fobs that contain what's known as a switchblade, that folds in itself when not in use, typically, they cost more to replace. The keys are equipped with shanks that retract into the fob, and then is released at the push of a button when required. They are much more secure than standard keys, which makes them an ideal choice for those who need an additional key for valet use. Keys that are changed can cost between $100 and $300 depending on the car and kind of key.

Unlike the old crank key, which was difficult, heavy and dangerous to use keys made of electronic technology are light and easy to handle. These car keys also make it difficult for thieves to steal them because they are cylindrical. This prevents 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 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 keys for cars can be costly and typically require a trip to the dealership and may or may not include a towing fee.

5. Transponder Keys

Transponder keys differ from mechanical keys because they feature an electronic chip that transmits an audio-frequency signal to the vehicle when the key is put into the ignition. The signal is then read by the vehicle's computer system to determine whether it is in line with the serial number of the key. If it matches the serial number, the vehicle will let keys to unlock the doors and start the engine. The concept behind this is to deter car theft by making it harder to wire a car and start the engine.

In theory, this is effective, however, clever car thieves are always looking for ways to defeat this technology. The chips inside these keys are also not as durable as many would think. They are easily cleaned out, which can result in the key not functioning.

Transponder key replacement costs can be a significant expense. The key blank itself could cost as much as $50 and then you have the additional expense of having it programmed. This procedure requires a specific machine that's only found in dealerships for cars.

This is why it is recommended to employ locksmiths who have the appropriate equipment for programming transponder keys. It is also a good idea to have all the details of your vehicle in order, including the year model, make and year of the vehicle. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used, which will save you money in the end. Locksmiths can program a transponder key typically for $150, however for push-to start cars equipped with remote transmitters and key fobs it could cost as high as $180. These keys require a special programming service that can be done only by a certified locksmith.