Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key

If you lose a car key, you need to be aware of the various costs involved. You can copy a basic key from any hardware store, but a smart key may require you to go to a dealership or locksmith.

But, if the fob isn't damaged and doesn't require changing its programming, there are ways to cut costs.

1. Type of Key

Car keys have an uncanny ability to disappear from the most surprising places. They can be difficult to locate, whether they fall out of your pocket when you're shopping, are stuck between the sofa cushions or fall into the crack in the back seat. In the past, this meant that you could simply go to your local hardware store or auto locksmith and get a new replacement car key.

These days it can be an expensive proposition in the case of a vehicle that is equipped with modern technology, such as push-to-start and key fob technology. These systems use key fobs and remote transmitters that are tiny electronic devices. They're also loaded with circuitry, making them expensive to replace in the event of an eventual loss.

This is why you should consider obtaining a key fob replacement insurance plan, which covers up to $400 per lost or stolen key. These plans typically cost of car key replacement less than total Replacement Remote Car Keys (Diywiki.Org) costs and include unlimited key replacements in the event of theft or loss as well as additional benefits like towing insurance and roadside assistance, to name a few.

The type of key you're using will also impact the cost and some keys are more expensive to replace than others. Basic metal keys without a key fob, for example are fairly inexpensive, as they're mechanical, and can be replaced by an experienced locksmith or mechanic. However, if your key is equipped with a transponder chip, it'll require special equipment to duplicate. These machines are available from car dealerships or manufacturers and could be a major element in the price.

Laser cut keys may increase the cost of keys for replacement car keys on automobiles, as they are thicker. They are fashioned from metal that is molded into the desired shape and then cut using lasers that are precise to ensure a precise fit.

2. Key Fob

Losing keys to your car used be a minor inconvenience. A locksmith or car dealer would sell you a new key, which was probably relatively inexpensive. However, as automobiles have become more technologically advanced, so too have their keys, and that means replacing a lost key could be a lot more expensive than it used to be.

Key fobs became popular in the '90s as an extra feature that allowed car owners to lock and unlock their car without a physical key. These small plastic fobs contain the button that, when pressed sends a signal to the 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 the same as those made before 1990. Some locksmiths will even replace lost fobs while you wait.

It can be more costly to replace a fob that has a transponder or computer chip than if it was merely an ordinary one. Reprogramming and pairing these can cost up to $200 and are only available through the original car dealer.

Many businesses who work with cars such as auto car key replacement near me repair shops and dealerships may end up with lots of spare fobs. Some of them are accessible to consumers, while others require specialized equipment or technical knowledge to program. This isn't something that the average consumer can do. It is recommended to keep a spare key in your pocket or purse. You can also include GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your insurance policy to make it easier in the event of need.

3. Keys Laser Cut Keys

Contrary to traditional mechanical keys laser-cut keys have more grooves and ridges. They are also more difficult for thieves in cars to duplicate.

Key blades feature slits on both sides that allow keys to be inserted in the ignition cylinder and door lock from either side. These are the most well-known car keys available today. They are more popular than key fobs because they provide more security and convenience.

It is essential that the company cutting the keys has the proper equipment. You'll get an unusable key that doesn't perform as expected if you don't. You must also be aware of the quality of the blade, because low-quality ones can damage the key cutting machine or even break the ignition cylinder.

To cut a laser-cut key locksmiths need to have your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have this information, they will run it through a computer system to retrieve the specifications specific to your car. Then, they'll employ a CNC to cut the key according to these specifications.

They require specialized machinery to make, and they are usually only available at dealerships. However, they are much less expensive than traditional key fobs and are also a bonus for being hard to duplicate.

The labor costs 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 practical keys for cars on the market today.

4. Switchblade Keys

Many modern vehicles use key fobs to lock and unlock doors, and also turn on the engine. Contrary to the older mechanical keys that operate mechanically and are easily duplicated by key cutters or locksmiths the newer keys for cars have transponder chips built in that must be connected with the vehicle by the dealer or auto locksmith. These fobs are generally more expensive, and range from $50 to $100 for the basic version to $200 for models that have push-to-start capabilities.

Fobs that have what's known as a switchblade key, which folds into itself when not in use. generally cost more to replace. These keys have shanks which retract into the fob and release when required. They are more secure than standard keys, which makes them a great alternative for those who require an extra key to use for valet. Keys that are changed can cost between $100 and $300 depending on the car and type of key.

Contrary to the crank key that was heavy, complicated and dangerous to use keys that are electronic are lightweight and more convenient. These car keys are also much more difficult to steal since they are cylindrical, a feature that can prevent the use of key-duplicate devices that are used by criminals to create illegal copies of the keys to your car.

The keys are entirely electronic and communicate electronically to open doors and start the engine. Some keys are able to do this without having to be removed from the pocket of the driver. These types of keys are costly to replace and require an appointment with a dealer, which might include a towing cost.

5. Transponder Keys

Unlike mechanical keys, transponder keys are equipped with a chip inside them that relays an audio frequency signal to the car whenever it is inserted into the ignition. The signal is then analyzed by the computer system of the vehicle to determine whether it is in line with the serial number of the key. If it does, the vehicle will allow the key to open the door and begin the engine. The concept behind this is to prevent car theft by making it harder to wire a car and start the engine.

In the theory of it, this is efficient However, the most sophisticated car thieves are always trying to outwit this technology. The chips inside these keys aren't as durable as many would think. They can be easily wiped out, resulting in the key not functioning.

The cost of replacing transponder keys could be expensive. The key blank can cost as much as $50 and then there's the cost of having it programmed. This process involves using a specific machine, which is only available at dealerships for cars.

It is therefore best to find a locksmith professional with the right equipment to program transponder keys. It is also a good idea to have all 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 will save you money over time. A locksmith can typically program a new transponder key for about $150, but it can cost as how much does a replacement car key cost uk as $180 for cars that are equipped with key fobs or remote transmitters. These keys require a specific programming service that can be done only by a certified locksmith.