15 Things You Didn't Know About Cost Replacement Car Key

Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key

When you lose a car key, you need to understand the various costs involved. You can copy a basic key at any hardware store, but an electronic key will require you to go to an auto dealer or locksmith.

But, if the fob is merely damaged and does not require reprogramming, there are ways to cut costs.

1. Type of Key

Car keys have the ability to disappear in most surprising places. They can be lost in your purse during shopping, get wedged between the sofa cushions, or fall down the crack of the back seat and are a difficult to locate. In the past, you could go to your local auto locksmith or hardware shop to purchase a new.

Today, however, that could be a costly proposition if you're driving a vehicle that is equipped with modern technology, such as key fob technology and push-to-start. The key fobs or remote transmitters that work with these systems are small electronic devices, and are packed with circuitry that could make them quite expensive to replace in the event of losing them.

You should therefore consider the possibility of a key fob insurance policy that will cover up to 400 dollars per key lost or stolen. These plans typically cost of replacement car key less than total cost of replacement, and come with unlimited key replacements in the event of theft or loss along with additional benefits like towing insurance and roadside assistance, among others.

The type of key you have also impacts the cost, with some types being more costly to replace than others. Metal keys that don't have keys with a fob, for example, are relatively cheap, as they're mechanical, and can be replaced by locksmiths or mechanics who are professionals. If your keys have transponder, you'll need an equipment that is specifically designed to duplicate it. These devices are typically accessible through dealerships or car manufacturers and can be a major contributor to the total cost.

Laser cut keys can also increase the price of a replacement key for cars, since they are more substantial. They are made of metal that is molded to a particular shape, and then are cut using precision lasers for the perfect fit.

2. Key Fob

Not too long ago, losing your car keys was not a big inconvenience. You could buy a replacement key from a locksmith shop or a car dealership, and it was likely relatively cheap to do so. However as cars have evolved in terms of technology, so too have their keys, and this means that replacing a lost key can be more expensive than it used to be.

Key fobs became popular during the 90s as an added feature that allowed car owners to lock and unlock their vehicle without a physical key. These tiny plastic keys have the button that, when hit by the user signals the onboard computer to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some also have a button to activate the alarm system of the vehicle or open the trunk.

A traditional key without a fob is akin to those made before the '90s, and can be cut by an auto Locksmith Near Me Car key replacement for a small charge. Some locksmiths will repair the fob that was lost while they are waiting.

Fobs that contain a transponder or other computer chip can be more costly to replace than standard ones. Reprogramming and pairing them can cost up to $200 and are only available through the original dealer for cars.

Many companies that deal with automobiles, including auto repair shops, car dealerships and salvage yards could end having a lot of spare fobs that aren't tied to a particular vehicle. Some of them are accessible to the general public, while others require specialized equipment or technical expertise to program. This is not something that the average consumer could do. This is why it's best to keep a spare car replacement key key in your pocket or purse and also add the GEICO Emergency Roadside Service to your insurance policy to make it more convenient in the event that you require it.

3. Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys

Laser-cut keys have deeper ridges unlike mechanical keys. These make them more difficult for thieves in cars to duplicate.

They also have slits tooled into both sides of the key blade 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, due to their greater security and convenience.

It is crucial that the company cutting the keys has the right equipment. You'll get an unusable key that doesn't work properly in the event that you don't. Be aware of the quality of the blade, since low-quality ones can damage the cutting mechanism of the key or even break the ignition cylinder.

To cut a key using lasers locksmiths will require your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have this information, they will run it through a computer system to retrieve the specifications of your specific vehicle. Then, they'll make use of 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 however, less costly than traditional key fobs, and also have the benefit of being hard to duplicate.

For a typical all-in-one laser-cut key you'll be required to shell out between $150 and $250 in labor costs. These keys have to be programmed by the dealer. They are still one of the most convenient and secure car keys available today.

4. Switchblade Keys

Many modern vehicles have key fobs that lock and unlock the doors, and also turn on the engine. These aren't mechanical keys that can be easily duplicated by locksmiths or key cutters. Instead, they come with transponder chip technology in the. The chip must be connected by an auto locksmith or dealer with the vehicle. The fobs are typically more expensive, and range between $50 and $100 for the basic version to $200 for models that have push-to-start functions.

Fobs with what's referred to as a switchblade key, that folds in itself when not in use, typically cost more to replace. The keys are equipped with shanks that retract into the fob, and then pops out at the push of a button when required. They are much more secure than standard keys, making them an ideal choice for those who require an extra key to use for valet. The cost of replacing these keys ranges from $100 to $300 depending on the car and the type of key.

Unlike the old crank key that was heavy, complicated, and dangerous to handle keys that are electronic are lightweight and more convenient. They also make it harder for thieves to steal them since they are cylinder-shaped. This blocks the use of key duplicate devices used by criminals to copy your car keys.

These keys that are completely electronic communicate electronically to open the doors and start the engine. Some keys can even do this without having to be removed from the pocket of the driver. These types of keys are costly to replace and require a trip to the dealer, which might include a towing fee.

5. Transponder Keys

Transponder keys differ from mechanical keys due to the fact that they are equipped with an electronic chip that transmits a radio-frequency signal to the vehicle when the key is placed into the ignition. The computer system of the vehicle scans the signal to determine whether the serial number is identical to the one on the key. If it does, the vehicle will allow the key unlock the door and start the engine. This is to stop car thefts by making it more difficult to wire a car hot and also to start the engine.

Theoretically, this technology is effective however, smart car thieves always find ways to beat it. Additionally, the chips in these types of keys aren't as long-lasting as people would like to believe. They can be easily wiped out, which can result in the key not functioning.

Transponder key replacement costs can be quite expensive. The key blank can cost as much as $50 and then you have the added expense of programming it. This procedure requires a specific machine that is only available at car dealerships.

For this reason, it is advisable to find locksmiths with the right equipment to program transponder keys. It is also a great idea to have your car's information ready, including the year, make, and model. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used, which can save you money in the end. Locksmiths typically can program the new transponder key for about $150, but it can cost up to $180 for cars that are equipped with key fobs or remote transmitters. These keys require a specialized programming service that can be performed only by a licensed locksmith.