Unexpected Business Strategies That Aided Cost Replacement Car Key Succeed
Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
If you lose a car key, it's important to know the different costs involved. You can get a copy of a car key at any hardware store, however a smart key may require you to visit a locksmith or dealer.
There are ways to save money if your device is damaged but is not in need of reprogramming.
1. Key Type
Car keys have an uncanny ability to disappear in the most unexpected places. They can be lost in your pocket while shopping, get wedged between the couch cushions or fall through the crack in your back seat They're always a difficult to locate. In the past, you could simply visit your local hardware or auto locksmith shop to purchase a new.
Today it can be quite costly in the case of a vehicle equipped with the latest technology, such as key fob technology or push-to-start. Key fobs or remote transmitters used in these systems are miniature electronic devices, and are packed with electronics that can cause them to be expensive to replace in the event of losing them.
This is the reason you should consider obtaining a key fob replacement insurance plan, which covers up to $400 for each lost or stolen key. These plans usually cost a fraction of the total cost of replacement, and come with unlimited key replacements in the event of theft or loss and additional benefits like towing coverage and roadside assistance, among others.
The kind of key you're using will also impact the cost, with some types being more expensive to replace than others. Simple metal keys that do not have key fobs, for example are relatively inexpensive because they're mechanical and can be replaced by locksmiths or mechanics who are professionals. If your key contains transponders, you'll require an equipment that is specifically designed to duplicate it. These machines are only available from car manufacturers or dealerships and can be a major factor in the cost.
Laser cut keys can also increase the price of the replacement key for a car, as they are more substantial. They are made from metal that is then molded to an exact shape, and then cut with lasers to ensure a perfect fit.
2. Key Fob
In the past, losing your car keys was just a nuisance. A car dealer or locksmith would sell you a new key, which was probably relatively cheap. As automobiles have become more technologically advanced as have their keys. This means that replacing a lost or damaged key could be more expensive.
Key fobs became popular during the 1990s as an additional feature that allowed car owners to lock and unlock their vehicle without a physical key. The small plastic fobs have an electronic button that, when pressed signals to the onboard computer of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some are equipped with buttons that activate the security system in the vehicle or open the trunk.
A locksmith for cars can cut a key without a remote for a small charge. This is similar to keys that were made prior to 1990. Some locksmiths will even replace a lost fob while you are waiting.
It's more costly to replace a fob that contains a transponder or computer chip as opposed to a traditional one. Reprogramming and pairing these can cost as much as $200 and are only available from the original car dealer.
Many businesses that deal with vehicles, such as auto repair shops and car dealerships might have a large number of spare fobs. Some of them can be sold to consumers, but others require special equipment and technical expertise to program, which isn't something that's readily available to the typical consumer. This is why it's recommended to keep a spare car key in your purse or pocket and then add GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service to your insurance policy to make it more convenient should you ever require it.
3. Laser Cut Keys Keys
Contrary to traditional mechanical keys laser-cut keys have deeper ridges and grooves. They are also more difficult for car thieves to duplicate.
The key blades have two slits which allow keys to be inserted in the ignition cylinder and door lock from either side. They are among the most sought-after car keys on the market today. They are more sought-after than traditional keys because they offer a higher level of security and ease of use.
It is important that the place cutting the keys is equipped with the right equipment. Otherwise, you'll end up with a key that doesn't perform as expected. You should also consider the quality of the knife because a knife that isn't of the highest quality could harm your key cutting device or cause it to break within the 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 vehicle. Then, they'll employ the CNC to cut the key to these specifications.
They are typically only available through dealers. However, they are less costly than traditional key fobs, and have the added bonus of being hard to duplicate.
The labor costs for a typical laser-cut all-in-one key could range from $150-$250. These keys need to be programmed by the dealer. But, they are one of the most secure and convenient car keys on the market today.
4. Switchblade Keys
Modern cars usually have key fobs that are able to lock and unlock doors and start the engine. These modern keys aren't mechanical keys that are easily duplicated by locksmiths and key cutters. Instead, they come with transponder chip technology integrated into. 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 with push-to-start features.
Fobs that have the "switchblade" key, which folds in on itself when not in use, are usually more expensive to replace. They have shanks that retract into the fob, which is released at the push of a button when needed. They are much more secure than standard keys, making them an ideal choice for those who require an extra key to use as a valet. Keys that are changed can cost between $100 and $300, depending on the car and type of key.
The electronic keys are lighter and more user-friendly than the old crank keys that were difficult, heavy and dangerous to handle. These car keys are also much harder to steal since they are cylindrical, which helps to prevent the use of key-duplicate devices that are used by criminals to create illegal copies of your car's keys.
Electronic keys can open doors and start engines without having to take them out of their pockets. These keys are costly to replace and will require a trip to the dealer, which might include a towing cost.
5. Transponder Keys
Unlike mechanical keys, transponder keys are equipped with a chip inside them that relays the radio frequency signal to the car whenever it is placed in the ignition. The signal is then read by the car's computer system to determine if it matches the serial number of the key. If it does, the vehicle will allow the key to open the door and start the engine. This is done to prevent car thefts by making it harder to connect a car's hot wire and to start the engine.
Theoretically, this technology is effective However, car thieves who are smart constantly find ways to defeat it. The chips in the keys aren't as durable as many would like to think. They can be easily wiped out, resulting in the key not functioning.
The cost of replacing a transponder key can be a significant expense. The key blank can cost as much as $50. Programming it is a cost additional. This process requires a special machine that's only available at car dealerships.
This is why it is best to hire locksmiths who have the right equipment to program transponder keys. car key and fob replacement is also a great idea to have your vehicle's information ready, such as the year model, make, and year. This will help ensure that the correct key blank is used, which can save you money in the long run. A locksmith can typically program a new transponder key for about $150, however it could cost upwards of $180 for cars with push-to-start capabilities with key fobs or remote transmitters. These keys require a special service that is only performed by a certified Locksmith.