Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
If you lose a car key, it's important to understand the various costs that are involved. You can copy a standard key at any hardware store, but the smart key might require you to go to a locksmith or dealership.
But, if the fob isn't damaged and does not require reprogramming there are ways to reduce costs.
1. Type of Key
Car keys have a peculiar ability to disappear in unexpected places. They can be lost in your purse during shopping, get wedged between the couch cushions, or
nearest fall through the crack of the back seat, they're always a little bit hard to find. In the past, you could pop into your local hardware or auto locksmith store to purchase a replacement.
These days, however, that can be an expensive proposition when you're driving a car equipped with the latest technology,
www.kuelsen.de such as key fob technology or push-to-start. These systems rely on remote transmitters and key fobs which are tiny electronic devices. They're also stuffed with circuitry, which makes them costly to replace in the event of an eventual loss.
You should therefore consider an insurance plan for your key fob that covers up to $400 dollars per key stolen or lost. These plans usually cost less than total cost of replacement and offer unlimited lost or stolen key replacements and additional benefits like towing coverage and roadside assistance, among other things.
The type of key you have can also affect the price, with some types being more costly to replace than others. Basic metal keys without key fobs for instance, are relatively cheap, because they're mechanical and can be replaced by a professional mechanic or locksmith. If your key contains a transponder, you'll need an equipment that is specifically designed to duplicate it. These devices are usually available through car dealerships or manufacturers and can be a major driver of the overall cost.
Laser cut keys are yet another aspect that can raise the cost of a
replacement car keys with chips car key, as these are usually more substantial than regular car keys. They are made of metal that is molded to a particular shape, and then are cut using precision lasers for an exact fit.
2. Key Fob
In the past the loss of your car keys was not a big inconvenience. A locksmith or car dealer could sell you a new key which was probably affordable. As cars have become more advanced in technology, so have their keys. This means that replacing a lost or damaged key could be more expensive.
In the 1990s, key fobs became popular as a method to lock and unlock vehicles without the use of an actual car key. The small plastic fobs have an electronic button that, when pressed, communicates to the computer onboard of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some have buttons that activate the vehicle's security system or unlock the trunk.
An automotive locksmith can cut a key without a remote at a small charge. This is the same as those that were made prior to 1990. Some locksmiths can even repair lost fobs while you wait.
It is more costly to replace a fob with a transponder or computer chip than if it was merely an old-fashioned one. Reprogramming and pairing these can cost up to $200 and are only accessible through the original car dealer.
Many businesses that deal with cars such as auto repair shops or dealerships might have a large number of spare fobs. Some are available to the general public, while others require special equipment or technical skills to program. This isn't something that the average person can do. This is why it's always best to keep an extra car key in your purse or pocket and then add GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service to your policy to make it even more convenient should you need to use it.
3. Laser Cut Keys Keys
Laser-cut keys have more ridges unlike mechanical keys. They are also more difficult for thieves in cars to duplicate.
Key blades feature cut-outs on both sides that permit keys to be inserted in the ignition cylinder and door lock from either side. They are the most commonly used kind of car keys available these days. They are more popular than key fobs, due to their greater security and convenience.
If you're interested in getting a laser-cut key for your car, it is essential to make sure the company cutting 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, as low-quality blades can damage the key cutting machine or even break inside your ignition cylinder.
The locksmith will need your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a key using lasers. Once they have your VIN, they will run the information through a computer in order to determine the specifications of your car. They then utilize the CNC machine to cut the key based on these specifications.
They require specialized machinery to create, and they are usually only available at dealerships. They are however, less costly than traditional key fobs and also have the benefit of being extremely difficult to duplicate.
The labor costs for a typical laser-cut, all-in-one key could range from $150-$250. This is because these types of keys must be programmed at the dealership. But, they are one of the most secure and convenient keys for cars available today.
4. Switchblade Keys
Modern cars often use key fobs that can lock and unlock doors and start the engine. Contrary to the older mechanical keys which work mechanically and are easily duplicated by locksmiths or key cutters These newer car keys have transponder chips built in that must be connected with the vehicle by a dealer or auto locksmith. These keys are more expensive. They range between $50 and $100 in the basic model, and up to $200 for models that have push-to-start capabilities.
Fobs that have the "switchblade" key that folds over itself when not being used they are typically more expensive 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 a great choice for those who require an extra key for valet use. The cost of replacing these keys ranges between $100 and $300 depending on the type of vehicle and the type.
These electronic keys are lighter and more user-friendly than the old crank keys, which were difficult, heavy and hazardous to use. These car keys also make it more difficult for thieves to steal them, as they are cylindrical. This stops the use of key-duplicate machines that criminals use to copy your car key.
These keys are electronic and can open doors and start engines without having to remove them from their pockets. These keys are expensive to replace and will require an excursion to the dealer, which might include a towing fee.
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 placed in the ignition. The computer system in the vehicle scans the signal to determine if the serial number matches the one on the key. If it does, the car will allow the key to unlock the door and start the engine. The idea behind this is to stop car theft by making it more difficult to connect a car's hot wire and start the engine.
In the theory of it, this is efficient However, smart
car key replacement service near me thieves are constantly trying to outwit this technology. In addition, the chips that are in these keys aren't as long-lasting as people would 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 could be expensive. The key blank can cost up to $50. Programming it is an additional cost.