15 Things You've Never Known About Cost Replacement Car Key
Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
When you lose a car key, you need to be aware of the various costs involved. You can copy a standard key at any hardware store, whereas an electronic key will require you to visit a locksmith or dealership.
However, if the device isn't damaged and doesn't require changing its programming there are ways to reduce costs.
1. Type of Key
Car keys have the bizarre ability to disappear in unexpected places. They can be difficult to locate, no matter if they fall out of your purse when you're out shopping, get stuck between the sofa cushions or fall into a crack in the back seat. In the past, you could simply go to your local hardware or auto locksmith store to purchase a replacement.
Nowadays it could be a costly proposition when you're driving a car with advanced technology, like key fob technology and push-to-start. Key fobs and remote transmitters that are used with these systems are small electronic devices that are packed with electronics that can cause them to be expensive to replace in the event that you lose them.
Consider the possibility of a key fob insurance policy that covers up to 400 dollars per key that is stolen or lost. These plans typically cover only a small fraction of the total replacement costs, and include unlimited replacements for lost or stolen keys as well as 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, simple metal keys that don't have a key fob are quite affordable, because they're mechanical and can be replaced by a professional locksmith or mechanic. If your key has transponders, you'll require special equipment to duplicate it. These devices are usually available through car dealerships or manufacturers, and could be a major driver of the total cost.
Laser cut keys are a different factor that can increase the cost of replacing a car key, since they are generally more substantial than regular car keys. They are made of metal that is then molded to the desired shape and then cut using lasers that are precise to ensure a precise fit.
2. Key Fob
In the past lost car keys was a nuisance. You could purchase an alternative key from a locksmith or car dealership, and it was likely affordable to purchase it. As cars have technologically advanced as do their keys. This means that replacing a lost key can be more costly.
In the 1990s, key fobs were popular as a method to lock and unlock a vehicle without using an actual car key. The tiny plastic fobs include a button that, when pressed signals to the onboard computer of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some of them have buttons that trigger the vehicle's security system or unlock the trunk.
A locksmith for cars can cut traditional keys without a remote at a small charge. This is similar to keys made before 1990. Some locksmiths will replace your lost fob while they wait.
It's more expensive to replace a fob with an electronic chip or transponder than if it was merely an ordinary one. They can cost as high as $200 to reprogram and pair with a new vehicle and are typically only available through the original dealer.
Many businesses that deal with cars such as auto repair shops and car dealerships may end up with a lot of spare fobs. Some of them can be sold to consumers, but others require special equipment and knowledge to program, which isn't something that is easily accessible to the average consumer. This is why it's always recommended to keep an extra car key in your pocket or purse and then add the GEICO Emergency Roadside Service to your insurance policy to make it more convenient should you require it.
3. Laser Cut Keys Keys
Unlike traditional mechanical keys, laser-cut keys feature deeper ridges and grooves. This makes them harder for car thieves to steal.
The key blades have slits on both sides which allow the key to be inserted into the ignition cylinder and door lock from either side. They are the most popular type of car keys that are in circulation today. They are more popular than traditional key fobs due to the fact that they provide a higher degree of security and comfort.
If you're thinking of cutting a key using lasers for your vehicle, it's important to make sure that the place that cuts keys has the appropriate equipment. If not, you'll end up with a key that doesn't function properly. car key replacements must also be aware of the quality of the blade, since low-quality ones can damage the cutting mechanism of the key 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 your VIN, they are able to run the information through a computer in order to determine the specifications of your car. They will then employ the CNC to cut the key in accordance with these specifications.
These keys require special machinery to make, and they are usually only available at dealerships. However, they are less expensive than traditional key fobs, and also have the benefit of being extremely difficult to duplicate.
For an all-in-one key that is laser-cut, you'll likely have to pay between $150 and $250 for labor costs. This is because these types of key need to be programmed at the dealership. But, they are one of the most secure and reliable car keys on the market today.
4. Switchblade Keys
A lot of modern cars utilize 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 or key cutters. Instead, they feature transponder chip technology in the. The chip has to be paired by an auto locksmith or dealer with the vehicle. These keys are more expensive. They vary from $50 to $100 for the basic model up to $200 for models with push-to-start capabilities.
Fobs that feature a "switchblade" key, which folds in on itself when not in use, are usually more expensive to replace. These keys come with shanks that retract into the fob and are released when needed. They are usually much more secure than standard keys, making them a great deterrent to thieves and a great alternative for those in need of an extra car key to allow valet use. Keys that are changed can cost anywhere between $100 and $300 based on the car and kind of key.
These electronic keys are lighter and simpler to use than the crank keys of the past which were extremely heavy, complicated and hazardous to use. These car keys also make it harder for thieves to steal them since they are cylinder-shaped. This prevents the use of key duplicate devices used by criminals to copy your car key.
These keys that are completely electronic communicate electronically to open the doors and begin the engine - some are able to do this without having to be removed from the pocket of the driver. Making changes to these types of car keys can be expensive and will typically require a trip to the dealer and may or may not 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 placed into the ignition. The computer system in the vehicle reads the signal to determine whether the serial number matches that of the key. If it does, the car will let the key unlock the door and begin the engine. This is done to prevent car thefts by making it difficult to connect a car's hot wire and to start the engine.
In theory, this is effective but smart car thieves are constantly looking for ways to defeat this technology. The chips inside the keys aren't as long-lasting as some like to think. They are easily cleaned out, resulting in the key not working.
The cost of replacing transponder keys can be expensive. The key blank itself can cost upwards of $50, and then there's the added expense of programming it. This process involves using a specific machine, which is only available at dealerships for cars.
It is therefore recommended to employ a professional locksmith who has the equipment to program transponder keys. It is also an excellent idea to have all of the information for your vehicle, including the year and make, as well as the model. This will ensure that the right key blank is used and can save you money over time. A locksmith can program a transponder-type key typically for $150, but for push-to start cars equipped with key fobs and remote transmitters, it could cost up to $180. These keys require a special programming service that can be done only by a licensed locksmith.