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Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
It is crucial to understand the costs involved if you lose your car key. You can copy a standard key from any hardware store, but the smart key might require you to visit an auto dealer or locksmith.
But, if the fob isn't damaged and doesn't need changing its programming, there are ways to reduce costs.
1. Type of Key
Car keys have a peculiar ability to disappear in unexpected places. Whether they slip out of your pocket while shopping, are tucked between the sofa cushions, or fall through the crack in the back seat, they're always a little bit hard to find. In the past, this meant that you could simply go to your local hardware store or auto locksmith and get a new replacement.
These days, 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. Key fobs and remote transmitters that work with these systems are small electronic devices, and they're packed with circuitry that could cause them to be expensive to replace in the event that you lose them.
This is the reason you should consider getting the replacement of your key fob insurance plan, which will cover up to $400 for each lost or stolen key. These plans usually cost a fraction of the total cost of replacement and offer unlimited lost or stolen key replacements along with additional benefits such as towing coverage and roadside assistance, among others.
The type of key you have also impacts the cost as some keys are more costly to replace than others. For instance, basic keys made of metal with no fob are quite affordable, because they're mechanical and can be easily replaced by a professional locksmith or mechanic. If your key has transponder chips, it will require specialized equipment to duplicate. These machines are only available from car manufacturers or dealerships and can be a major factor in the cost.
Laser cut keys are another factor that could increase the cost of a replacement car key, because they are typically more substantial than regular car keys. They are made of metal that is molded to a particular shape, and then cut using lasers that are precisely calibrated to ensure the perfect fit.
2. Key Fob
The loss of keys to your car used to be a minor issue. A car dealer or locksmith could sell keys to replace them that was likely to be affordable. As cars have technologically advanced and so do their keys. This means that replacing a lost or damaged key could be more costly.
In the 1990s, key fobs were widely used to lock and unlock a vehicle without using an actual car key. The small plastic fobs have a button that, when pressed communicates to the computer onboard of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some also contain a button that can activate the vehicle's alarm system or open the trunk.
A key that is not fitted with a fob is akin to those that were made prior to the '90s and it can be cut by an auto locksmith for a fee. Some locksmiths will even replace the fob that was lost while you are waiting.
It is more costly to replace a fob that has an electronic chip or transponder than if it was merely an old-fashioned one. They can cost up to $200 to reprogram and pair with the new car and are typically only available through the dealer who sold the original car.
Many businesses that work with vehicles, such as auto repair shops, car dealerships and salvage yards could end up with quite a few spare fobs not tied to a particular vehicle. Some of these are available to consumers, while others require specialized equipment or technical knowledge to program. This isn't something that the average consumer could do. This is why it's always ideal to keep a spare car key in your purse or pocket, and add the GEICO Emergency Roadside Service to your policy to make it even more convenient should you ever need to use it.
3. Keys Laser Cut Keys
In contrast to traditional mechanical keys laser-cut keys have more grooves and ridges. This makes them more difficult for car thieves.
They also have slits tooled into the sides of the key blade that allow them to be put into the door and ignition cylinder lock from either direction. They are among the most sought-after car keys available today. They are more popular than key fobs, because they offer more security and convenience.
If you're interested in cutting a key using lasers for your vehicle, it's crucial to ensure that the place that cuts keys has the proper equipment. Otherwise, you'll end with a key that doesn't perform as expected. You must also think about the quality of the knife since a poor quality knife could damage your key cutting machine or cause it to break within the ignition cylinder.
The locksmith will require your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a key using lasers. Once they have this information, they will run it through an electronic system to find the specifications for your specific car. Then, they'll make use of the CNC to cut the key according to these specifications.
They require specialized equipment to create, and they are generally only available through dealerships. They are however, less costly than traditional key fobs and have the added bonus of being difficult to duplicate.
The cost of labor for a typical laser-cut, all-in-one key could range from $150 to $250. The keys must be programmed by the dealer. However, they are one of the most secure and reliable keys for cars on the market today.
4. Switchblade Keys
A lot of modern cars use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, as well as turn on the engine. Unlike older mechanical keys, that operate mechanically and are easy to duplicate by key cutters or locksmiths, these newer car keys come with transponder chips that must be connected with the vehicle by a dealer or auto locksmith. These keys are more expensive. They vary from $50 to $100 in the basic version up to $200 for models with push-to-start functions.
Fobs with what's referred to as a switchblade key which folds up when not in use, typically, they cost more to replace. These keys come with shanks that retract into the fob and release when required. They are more secure than standard keys, which makes them a great alternative for those who need an extra key for valet use. Keys that are changed can cost anywhere from $100 to $300 based on the car and type of key.
auto key replacement are lighter and easier to use than the crank keys of the past which were heavy, complicated and hazardous to use. The car keys also make it difficult for thieves to steal them as they are cylindrical. This blocks the use of key-duplicate devices used by criminals to copy your car keys.
These keys are electronic and can open doors and start engines without the driver having to take them out of their pockets. The process of changing these kinds of keys to cars can be costly and typically require a trip to the dealer and may or may not include a towing cost.
5. Transponder Keys
In contrast to mechanical keys, transponder keys have a chip in them that relays the radio frequency signal to the car whenever it is put into the ignition. The signal is then read by the computer system of the vehicle to determine if it matches the serial number of the key. If it does, the car will let the key unlock the door and begin the engine. The idea behind this is to prevent car theft by making it more difficult to hot wire a car and then start the engine.
Theoretically it is possible that this technology works however, smart car thieves always find ways to beat it. The chips in these keys aren't as long-lasting as some like to think. They can get wiped out easily, which could result in the key not functioning at all.
The cost of replacing transponder keys can be costly. The key blank can cost as much as $50. Programming it is an additional cost. This requires a special machine that's only available in car dealerships.
It is best to hire locksmiths with the right equipment to program transponder keys. It is also a great idea to have your vehicle's information ready, including the year, make, and model. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used and could save you money in the long run. Locksmiths typically can program the new transponder key for about $150, but it may cost as much as $180 for cars with push-to-start capabilities with remote transmitters or key fobs. These keys require a special service that can only be performed by a certified Locksmith.