Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key

If you lose a car key, you need to be aware of the various costs associated with. You can find a duplicate of a basic car key at any hardware shop, but the smart key could require you to go to a locksmith or dealer.

There are ways to save money if your fob is damaged but is not in need of reprogramming.

1. Key Type

Car keys have the bizarre ability to disappear in strange places. Whether they slip out of your pocket while shopping, are tucked between the couch cushions, or fall into the crack of the back seat, they're always a little bit hard to find. In the past, you could simply visit your local hardware or auto locksmith shop to purchase a new car key replacement.

Today it could be a costly proposition in the case of a vehicle that is equipped with modern technology, such as push-to-start and key fob technology. The key fobs or remote transmitters that work with these systems are small electronic devices, Cost replacement car key and they're packed with electronics that can make them quite expensive to replace if you lose them.

You should therefore consider a key fob insurance plan that will cover up to 400 dollars for each key that is stolen or lost. These plans typically cover a fraction of cost of replacement, and include unlimited replacements for stolen or lost keys, in addition to other benefits like towing and roadside assistance.

The type of key you have can also affect the price as some keys are more expensive to replace than others. For example, basic keys made of metal with no fob are quite affordable, since they're mechanical and can be replaced by a professional locksmith or mechanic. If your keys have transponder, you'll need specialized equipment to duplicate it. These devices are typically available through car dealerships or manufacturers and can be a major driver of the overall cost.

Laser cut keys may increase the cost of keys for replacement on automobiles, as they are thicker. They are made from metal that is then molded to the desired shape and then cut using lasers that are precise to ensure a perfect fit.

2. Key Fob

Not too long ago the loss of your car keys was not a big problem. A car dealer or locksmith could offer you a new key which was probably cheap. However as cars have evolved in terms of technology as well, so have their keys, and that means replacing a lost key can be much more expensive than it was in the past.

Key fobs became popular during the 90s as an added feature that allowed car owners to lock and unlock their vehicles without the need for a physical key. These small plastic fobs contain a button that, when pressed, communicates to the computer onboard of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some have buttons that activate the security system in the vehicle or open the trunk.

An automotive locksmith can cut a key without a remote at an affordable fee. This is the same as those that were made prior to 1990. Some locksmiths will repair the fob that was lost while they are waiting.

It can be more costly to replace a fob that has an electronic chip or transponder than if it were a traditional one. Reprogramming and pairing them could cost up to $200 and are only available from the original dealer for cars.

Many companies that deal with vehicles, such as auto repair shops, car dealerships, and salvage yards, could end with a number of spare fobs that aren't tied to a specific vehicle. Some of these are available to consumers, while others require specialized equipment or technical skills to program. This is not something that the average consumer can do. This is why it's recommended to keep an extra car key in your pocket or purse and also add GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service to your policy to make it even more convenient should you require it.

3. Laser Cut Keys

Laser-cut keys have deeper ridges in comparison to traditional mechanical keys. This makes them harder for car thieves to steal.

They also have slits inserted into both sides of the blade, which allows them to be put into the door and the ignition cylinder lock from either direction. They are among the most sought-after car keys available today. They are more sought-after than traditional keys because they provide a higher level of security and comfort.

If you're interested in having a laser-cut key made for your vehicle, it's crucial to ensure that the shop that is cutting keys has the appropriate equipment. Otherwise, you'll end with a key that does not function properly. You must also think about the quality of the knife since a poor quality knife could damage your key cutting machine or even cause it to break inside the ignition cylinder.

The locksmith will require your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a laser-cutted key. Once they have this information, they can run it through a computer system to retrieve the specifications of your specific vehicle. They can then use the CNC machine to cut the key based on these specifications.

They are typically only available through dealerships. They are less expensive than traditional key fobs however, they also have the added benefit of being difficult to duplicate.

For an all-in-one key that is laser-cut you'll need to pay between $150 and $250 in labor costs. These keys have to be programmed by the dealer. They remain among the most secure and convenient car keys available today.

4. Switchblade Keys

Many modern vehicles use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, and start the engine. Unlike older mechanical keys, which are mechanical and easy to duplicate by locksmiths or key cutters, these newer car keys come with transponder chips which must be linked with the vehicle by the dealer or an auto locksmith. These fobs are generally more expensive, ranging between $50-$100 for the basic model to $200 for models that have push-to-start capabilities.

Fobs that have what's known as a switchblade key, that folds in 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 needed. They are usually much more secure than traditional keys, making them a powerful deterrent for thieves. They are also a good alternative for those who require an extra car key to allow valet usage. The Cost Replacement Car Key of changing these keys can range from $100 to $300, depending on the vehicle and the type of key.

The electronic keys are lighter and easier to use than the old crank keys, which were extremely heavy, cost replacement car key complicated and dangerous to handle. The 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 keys.

These wholly electronic car keys communicate electronically to open doors and start the engine - some are even able to do so without having to be taken from the pocket of the driver. These types of keys are costly to replace and will require an excursion to the dealer, which may include a towing fee.

5. Transponder Keys

Transponder keys differ from mechanical keys because they feature a chip that transmits a radio-frequency signal to the vehicle when the key is put into the ignition. The computer system in the vehicle scans the signal to determine whether the serial number is identical to the one on the key. If it does, the car will let the key unlock the door and start the engine. This is done to avoid car thefts by making it 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 looking for ways to defeat this technology. Additionally, the chips in these keys are not as durable as many would like to believe. They can be easily wiped out, resulting in the key not functioning.

Transponder key replacement car key fobs costs can be quite expensive. The key blank can cost up to $50. Programming it is an additional expense. This requires an exclusive machine that is only available at dealerships for cars.

It is recommended to find a locksmith professional who has the necessary equipment for programming transponder key. It is also a good idea to have your car's information ready, such as the year model, make, and year of the vehicle. This will help ensure that the right key blank is used, which can save you money in the long run. Locksmiths can program a transponder keys typically for $150, but for push-to start cars equipped with remote transmitters and key fobs it could cost as high as $180. These keys require a special service that is only done by a locksmith who is certified.