15 Things You Don't Know About Cost Replacement Car Key
Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
When you lose a car key, it's crucial to be aware of the various costs that are involved. You can obtain a copy of a car key from any hardware store, however a smart key might require you to visit a dealer or locksmith.
But, if the fob isn't damaged and doesn't require reprogramming, there are ways to cut costs.
1. Type of Key
Car keys have an uncanny ability to disappear in the most surprising places. They can be hard to locate, whether they disappear from your pocket when you're shopping, get stuck between the sofa cushions or fall into the crack in the back of your car. In the past, you could simply go to your local auto locksmith or hardware store to purchase a replacement.
It's costly to replace a key fob or remote transmitter if you drive a vehicle that has advanced technology. The key fobs or remote transmitters that are used with these systems are miniature electronic devices, and they're packed with circuitry that can make them quite expensive to replace if you lose them.
Consider an insurance plan for your key fob that covers up to $400 dollars per key stolen or lost. These plans usually cost a fraction of the total cost of replacement and offer unlimited key replacements for lost or stolen keys as well as additional benefits like towing insurance and roadside assistance, among others.
The kind of key you're using also impacts the cost and some keys are more expensive to replace than other. For instance, simple metal keys with no key fob are quite affordable, since they're mechanical and can be easily replaced by a professional locksmith or mechanic. However, if the key is equipped with a transponder chip, it'll require specialized equipment to duplicate. These devices are usually accessible through dealerships or car manufacturers, and could be a major factor in the total 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 molded into a particular shape, and then cut using lasers that are precisely calibrated to ensure the perfect fit.
2. Key Fob
Not too long ago, losing your car keys was a inconvenience. auto key replacement or car dealer could offer you a replacement key that was likely to be affordable. However since cars have become more technologically advanced and so have keys, which means replacing a lost key could be more expensive than it used to be.
Key fobs became popular during the 1990s as an additional feature to allow car owners to lock and unlock their vehicle without the need for a physical key. These small plastic fobs contain an electronic button that, when pressed communicates to the computer onboard of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some have a button to activate the alarm system in the vehicle or open the trunk.
A traditional key without a fob is akin to those made before the '90s, and can be cut by an automotive locksmith for a fee. Some locksmiths will even replace a lost fob while you wait.
Fobs that contain a transponder or another chip could be more expensive to replace than conventional ones. They can cost up to $200 to reprogram and pair with a new vehicle, and they are generally only available through the original dealer.
Many businesses who work with vehicles, such as auto repair shops or dealerships might have a large number of spare fobs. Some of them can be sold to consumers, but certain require specialized equipment and knowledge to make use of, something that's readily available to the common consumer. It's a good idea to keep an extra key in your wallet or purse. You can also include GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your insurance policy to make things simpler if you require it.
3. Keys Laser Cut Keys
Contrary to traditional mechanical keys laser-cut keys have deeper grooves and ridges. They are also more difficult for thieves in cars to duplicate.
The blades of the key have cut-outs on both sides that permit keys to be inserted into the ignition cylinder as well as the door lock from either side. These are the most well-known car keys on the market today. They are more sought-after than traditional key fobs due to the fact that they provide a higher level of security and ease of use.
It is crucial that the shop cutting the keys is equipped with the correct equipment. You'll get keys that don't perform as expected in the event that you don't. You must also be aware of the quality of the blade, because poor quality blades can cause damage to the cutting mechanism of the key or even break the ignition cylinder.
To cut a laser-cut key locksmiths will require your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have this information, they will run it through a computer system to get the specifications for your specific vehicle. Then, they'll make use of a CNC to cut the key according to these specifications.
They require specialized equipment to create, and they are usually only available at dealerships. They are less expensive than traditional key fobs, but they also have an added benefit of being hard to duplicate.
For an all-in-one key that is laser-cut you'll need to pay between $150 and $250 in labor costs. These keys have to be programmed by the dealer. They remain among the most secure and convenient keys for cars available today.
4. automotive key replacement of modern cars have key fobs that lock and unlock doors, and also turn on the engine. These newer keys are not mechanical keys that are easily duplicated by locksmiths and key cutters. Instead, they have transponder chip technology in the. The chip must be paired by an auto locksmith or dealer to the vehicle. These keys are typically more expensive, ranging between $50 and $100 for the basic model, and up to $200 for models that have push-to-start features.
Fobs that contain what's known as a switchblade, that folds in itself when not in use. generally cost more to replace. They have shanks that retract into the fob, and then release when required. They are much more secure than standard keys, making them a great choice for those who need an extra key to use for valet. The cost of replacing these keys ranges between $100 and $300, depending on the vehicle and the type.
They are lighter and more user-friendly than the crank keys of the past, which were heavy, complicated and dangerous to handle. These car keys are also much more difficult to steal since they are cylindrical, a feature that helps to prevent the use of key duplicate devices used by criminals to make illegal copies of your car's keys.
Electronic keys can open doors and start engines without needing to take them out of their pockets. These keys are costly to replace and require an appointment with a dealer, which could include a towing fee.
5. Transponder Keys
Transponder keys differ from mechanical keys due to the fact that they have an electronic chip that transmits an audio-frequency signal to the vehicle when the key is placed in the ignition. The computer system in the vehicle scans the signal to determine whether the serial number matches that of the key. If it does, the vehicle will allow the key to open the door and start the engine. The concept behind this is to deter car theft by making it harder to connect a car's hot wire and start the engine.
In the theory of it, this is efficient, however, the most sophisticated car thieves are always finding ways to beat this technology. Furthermore, the chips inside these types of keys are not as durable as people would like to believe. They can be easily wiped out, which can result in the key not working.
The cost of replacing transponder keys can be high. The cost of the key blank could be up to $50. Programming it is an additional expense. This requires a special machine that's only found at car dealerships.
It is advisable to find a locksmith who has the appropriate equipment for programming transponder keys. It is also a good idea to have your car's information prepared, such as the year model, make, and year of the vehicle. This will help ensure that the right key blank is used, which could save you money in the end. A locksmith can program a transponder 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 locksmith who is certified.