10 Steps To Begin The Business You Want To Start Cost Replacement Car Key Business
Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
If you lose your car key, you need to know the different costs involved. automotive key replacement can copy a basic key from any hardware store, but the smart key might require you to visit a locksmith or dealership.
There are ways to save money if your fob is only damaged and doesn't require programming.
1. Key Type
Car keys have an uncanny ability to disappear in most surprising places. If they disappear from your purse while shopping, or get stuck between the couch cushions, or fall down the crack in the back seat and are a bit hard to find. In the past, this meant that you could go to your local hardware store or auto locksmith and purchase a new replacement.
Nowadays it can be quite costly if you're driving a vehicle with advanced technology, like key fob technology and push-to-start. These systems rely on remote transmitters and key fobs, which are tiny electronic devices. They're also stuffed with circuitry, making them costly to replace in the event of the loss.
This is why you should consider getting a key fob replacement insurance plan, which covers up to $400 for each lost or stolen key. These plans are usually only a small fraction of the total replacement costs and include unlimited replacements for lost or stolen keys, as well as additional benefits like towing or roadside assistance.
The type of key that you have will also affect the cost. Some keys are more expensive to replace. Simple metal keys that do not have a key fob, for example are relatively inexpensive as they're mechanical, and can be replaced by an experienced locksmith or mechanic. If your key has a transponder, you'll need special equipment to duplicate it. These machines are only available from car dealerships or manufacturers and are a significant element in the price.
Laser cut keys can increase the cost of a replacement key for a car, as they are more substantial. They are made of metal that is molded into a particular shape, and then are cut using precision lasers for a perfect fit.
2. Key Fob
In the past the loss of your car keys was just a inconvenience. A car dealer or locksmith could offer you a new key which was probably inexpensive. As automobiles have become more advanced in technology and so do their keys. This means that replacing a lost key could be more costly.
Key fobs became popular in the '90s as an extra feature to allow car owners to lock and unlock their vehicle without the need for a physical key. These small plastic fobs have an electronic button that, when pressed by the user, sends a signal to the computer onboard to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some of them have buttons that trigger the security system of the vehicle or open the trunk.
An automotive locksmith can cut a traditional key without a remote for the cost of a small fee. This is the same as those that were made prior to 1990. Some locksmiths will be able to replace your fob while they wait.
It's more expensive to replace a fob that contains an electronic chip or transponder than if it was merely an ordinary one. Reprogramming and pairing these can cost up to $200 and are only available through the original dealer for cars.
Many companies that deal with cars such as auto repair shops and dealerships may end up with lots of spare fobs. Some of them could be offered to consumers, however others require special equipment and knowledge to make use of, something that's easily accessible to the typical consumer. 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 easier in the event of need.
3. Laser Cut Keys Keys
Contrary to traditional mechanical keys laser-cut keys have deeper grooves and ridges. This makes them less prone to car thieves.
Key blades feature two slits that allow the key to be put into the ignition cylinder as well as the door lock from either side. They are among the most sought-after car keys available today. They are more popular than traditional keys because they offer a higher level of security and comfort.
If you're thinking of having a laser-cut key made for your vehicle, it's crucial to ensure that the shop that is cutting them has the right equipment. Otherwise, you'll end up with a key that doesn't work properly. You should also consider the quality of the knife as a low-quality one can harm your key cutting device or cause it to crack inside the ignition cylinder.
To cut a key using lasers, the locksmith will need to have your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have this information, they can run it through an electronic system to find the specifications specific to your vehicle. They then utilize an CNC machine to cut the key according to these specifications.
They require specialized equipment to create, and they are generally only available through dealerships. However, they are much less costly than traditional key fobs and also have the benefit of being extremely difficult to duplicate.
Labor costs for a typical laser-cut all-in-one key will likely range between $150-$250. These keys need to be programmed by the dealer. They remain among the most secure and convenient keys for cars available today.
4. Switchblade Keys
A lot of modern cars use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, and also start the engine. These newer keys are not mechanical keys that can be duplicated by locksmiths and key cutters. Instead, they have transponder chip technology integrated into. This chip must be paired by an auto locksmith or dealer to the vehicle. These fobs are generally more expensive, and range between $50 and $100 for the basic model, and up to $200 for models that have push-to-start features.
Fobs that contain what's known as a switchblade key that folds in itself when not in use. typically, they cost more to replace. They have shanks that retract into the fob, and then is released at the push of a button whenever needed. They are typically safer than traditional keys, which makes them a great deterrent to thieves. They are also a good alternative for those in need of an extra car key for valet usage. Keys that are changed can cost anywhere between $100 and $300 depending on the car and the kind of key.
The electronic keys are lighter and easier to use than the crank keys of the past which were heavy, complicated and dangerous to handle. They also make it difficult for thieves to steal them because they are cylindrical. This prevents the use of key duplicate machines that criminals use to copy your car key.
The keys are entirely electronic and communicate electronically to open doors and begin the engine. Some can even do this without having to be removed from the driver's pocket. These types of keys are expensive to replace and require an appointment with a dealer, which might include a towing cost.
5. Transponder Keys
In contrast to mechanical keys keys have a chip in them that relays a radio frequency signal to the car when it is inserted into the ignition. The signal is then analyzed by the car's computer system to determine whether it is in line with the serial number of the key. If it is the serial number, the vehicle will let the key unlock the door and to start the engine. The concept behind this is to prevent car theft by making it harder to connect a car's hot wire and then start the engine.
Theoretically it's possible that this technology will work however, smart car thieves constantly find ways to defeat it. In addition, the chips that are in these keys aren't as durable as some would like to believe. They can get wiped out easily, which could cause the key to stop functioning at all.
The cost of replacing a transponder key can be very expensive. car key replacement can cost upwards of $50 and then you have the added expense of having it programmed. This procedure requires a specific machine that's only found in car dealerships.
It is recommended to employ a locksmith who has the appropriate equipment for programming transponder keys. It is also recommended to have all the details of your vehicle in order including the year and make, as well as the model. This will help ensure that the correct key blank is used, which will save you money in the end. A locksmith can program a transponder key typically for $150, however for cars with push-to-start capabilities with key fobs and remote transmitters it could cost up to $180. These keys require a specific service that can only be done by a locksmith who is certified.