Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
It is important to be aware of the cost involved when you lose your car keys. You can obtain a copy of a basic car key from any hardware shop, but a smart key may require you to visit a locksmith or dealer.
However, if the fob is merely damaged and doesn't require to be reprogrammed there are ways to cut costs.
1. Type of Key
Car keys have a peculiar ability to disappear in unexpected places. They can be difficult to find, whether they fall out of your pocket while shopping, end up stuck between the sofa cushions, or fall into the crack in the back seat. In the past, this meant that you could go to your local auto locksmith or hardware store and get a new replacement.
These days it can be an expensive proposition if you're driving a vehicle that is equipped with modern technology, such as key fob technology or 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 be quite costly to replace in the event that you lose them.
This is the reason you should think about purchasing the
replacement key fobs for cars of your key fob insurance plan that covers up to $400 per lost or stolen key. These plans typically represent only a small fraction of the total replacement costs, and provide unlimited replacements for lost or stolen keys as well as other benefits like towing and roadside assistance.
The type of key that you own will also impact the cost. Certain keys are more expensive to replace. For instance, simple metal keys with no key fob are relatively inexpensive, because they're mechanical and can be replaced by an expert locksmith or mechanic. If your key has transponder, you'll need specialized equipment to duplicate it. These machines are available from car manufacturers or dealerships and can be a major element in the price.
Laser cut keys can also increase the
cost replacement car Key of a replacement key for a car, as they are more substantial. They are fashioned from metal that is molded into a specific shape and are then cut using precision lasers to ensure a perfect fit.
2. Key Fob
Not too long ago the loss of your car keys was just a inconvenience. A car dealer or locksmith could sell you a new key which was probably inexpensive. However, as cars have evolved in terms of technology and so have keys, and that means replacing a lost key could be much more expensive than it used to be.
In the 1990s, key fobs were popular as a method to lock and unlock vehicles without the use of the physical keys of a car. These small plastic fobs have the button that when it is pressed by the user communicates to the computer in the onboard system to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some also include a button that allows you to activate the vehicle's alarm system or open the trunk.
A traditional key without a fob is similar to those made prior to the 1990s, and can be cut by an automotive locksmith for a small charge. Some locksmiths can even replace a lost fob while you are waiting.
It can be more expensive to replace a fob that contains a transponder or computer chip as opposed to a traditional one. Reprogramming and pairing these can cost as
how much is a replacement car key uk as $200 and are only available from the original car dealer.
Many businesses that work with automobiles, including auto repair shops, car dealerships and salvage yards, could end having a lot of spare fobs that aren't attached to a specific vehicle. Some of these can be offered to consumers, however some require special equipment and knowledge to make use of, something that's readily available to the typical consumer. This is why it's ideal to keep an extra car key in your pocket or purse and also add the GEICO Emergency Roadside Service to your insurance policy to make it more convenient should you ever require it.
3. Keys Laser Cut Keys
Contrary to traditional mechanical keys laser-cut keys have more grooves and ridges. They make them harder for car thieves to duplicate.
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. These are the most popular car keys available today. They are more popular than key fobs because they provide more security and convenience.
If you're considering getting a laser-cut key for your vehicle, it's important to make sure that the place that cuts keys has the proper equipment. If not, you'll end up with a key that doesn't perform as expected. You must also be aware of the quality of the blade, as low-quality blades can damage the key cutting machine or even break within your ignition cylinder.
The locksmith will require your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a laser-cut
key replacement car. Once they have your VIN, they can run the information through a computer to find the specifications of your car. Then, they will use the CNC to cut the key according to these specifications.
They are usually only available through dealers. They are more affordable than traditional key fobs, but they also have an added benefit of being hard to duplicate.
Labor costs for a typical laser-cut all-in-one key will likely range between $150-$250. This is due to the fact that these types of keys must be programmed at the dealership. However, they are one of the most secure and practical keys for cars available today.
4. Switchblade Keys
Modern cars usually have key fobs that are able to lock and unlock doors and start the engine. In contrast to older mechanical keys which are mechanical and easy to duplicate by key cutters or locksmiths the newer keys for cars have transponder chips built in which must be linked with the vehicle by the dealer or an auto locksmith. The fobs are typically more expensive, ranging from $50 to $100 for the basic version to $200 for models with push-to-start capabilities.
Fobs that feature a "switchblade" key, which folds in on itself when not in use They are generally more expensive to replace. The keys are equipped with shanks that retract into the fob, which can be released at the touch of a button when required. They are typically more secure than standard keys, which makes them a great deterrent to thieves. They are also a good 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, depending on the car and type of key.
These electronic keys are lighter and simpler to use than the old crank keys that were heavy, complicated and dangerous to handle. The keys for cars are much more difficult to steal since they are cylindrical, a feature that assists in preventing the use of key duplicate devices used by criminals to create illegal copies of your car's key.
The keys are entirely electronic and communicate electronically to open the doors and start the engine - some are even able to do so without having to be taken from the driver's pocket. These keys are expensive to replace and require a trip to the dealer, which might include a towing fee.
5. Transponder Keys
In contrast to mechanical keys keys have a chip in them that relays an audio 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 matches the serial number of the key. If it does, the vehicle will let the key unlock the door and start the engine. The idea behind this is to stop car theft by making it more difficult to wire a car and start the engine.
In theory, this technology is effective but the most sophisticated car thieves are always looking for ways to defeat this technology. Furthermore, the chips inside these types of keys aren't as durable as people would like to believe. They are prone to being destroyed easily, which could result in the key not functioning at all.
Transponder key replacement costs can be very expensive. The key blank can cost up to $50. Programming it is an additional cost. This procedure requires a specific machine, which is only available at dealerships for cars.
It is recommended to hire a professional locksmith who has the necessary equipment for programming transponder key. It is also an excellent idea to have all of the information for your vehicle, including the year model, make and year of the vehicle. This will ensure that the right key blank is used and can save you money in the long run. Locksmiths typically can program a new transponder key for around $150, however it could cost as much as $180 for cars with push-to-start capabilities with remote transmitters or key fobs. These keys require a specialized service that can only be done by a locksmith who is certified.