10 Places That You Can Find Cost Replacement Car Key
Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
It is crucial to understand the cost involved when you lose your car keys. You can copy a standard key at any hardware store, whereas a smart key may require you to visit a dealership or locksmith.
However, if the fob isn't damaged and doesn't need to be reprogrammed there are ways to reduce costs.
1. Type of Key
Car keys have the bizarre ability to disappear in unexpected places. They can be difficult to find, whether they slip 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, you could just pop into your local hardware store or auto locksmith and pick up a replacement.
Nowadays, however, that could be a costly proposition in the case of a vehicle that is equipped with modern technology, such as push-to-start and key fob technology. Key fobs and 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.
It is recommended to consider a key fob insurance plan that covers up to $400 dollars per key that is stolen or lost. These plans typically represent only a small fraction of the total replacement costs and offer unlimited replacements for lost or stolen keys, as well as additional benefits like towing or roadside assistance.
The type of key you're using can also affect the price, with some types being more costly to replace than others. For example, basic metal keys with no key fob are fairly inexpensive since they're mechanical and can be replaced by an experienced locksmith or mechanic. If car replacement key have a transponder, you'll need an equipment that is specifically designed to duplicate it. These machines are usually only accessible through dealerships or car manufacturers and can be a major contributor to the total cost.
Laser cut keys can increase the price of the replacement key for automobiles, as they are more substantial. They are made from metal that is molded to a particular shape, then cut with lasers that are precise to ensure the perfect fit.
2. Key Fob
Not too long ago lost car keys was not a big inconvenience. A locksmith or car dealer could offer you a replacement key, which was probably relatively inexpensive. However, as cars have become more technologically advanced as well, so have their keys, and that means replacing a lost key can be much 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 vehicles without a physical key. These tiny plastic keys have the button that when hit by the user sends a signal to the computer onboard to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some are equipped with buttons that activate the security system in the vehicle or open the trunk.
An automotive locksmith can cut a key without a remote for an affordable fee. This is the same as those produced prior to 1990. Some locksmiths will replace your fob while they are waiting.
Fobs with transponders or another computer chip may be more expensive to replace than standard ones. Reprogramming and pairing them could cost as much as $200 and are only available through the original dealer of the car.
Many companies that deal with vehicles, such as auto repair shops, car dealerships and salvage yards, could end with a number of spare fobs that aren't attached to a specific vehicle. Some are available to the public, whereas others require special equipment or technical skills to program. This isn't something that the average consumer can do. This is why it's always ideal to keep a spare car key in your purse or pocket and then add the GEICO Emergency Roadside Service to your policy to make it even more convenient should you need to use it.
3. Laser Cut Keys
In contrast to traditional mechanical keys laser-cut keys have more ridges and grooves. They are also more difficult for thieves in cars to duplicate.
They also have slits tooled into both sides of the blades that allow them to be put into the door and ignition cylinder lock from either direction. These are the most popular car keys available today. They are more popular than traditional keys because they provide a higher level of security and convenience.
It is important that the company cutting keys has the right equipment. Otherwise, you'll end with a key that does not function properly. You must also be aware of the quality of the blade, as low-quality blades can damage the cutting mechanism of the key or even break within your ignition cylinder.
The locksmith will require your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a laser-cut key. Once they have your VIN, they will run the data through a computer to retrieve the specifications of your car. They can then use the CNC machine to cut the key based on these specifications.
They require specialized equipment to make, and they are generally only available through dealerships. However, they are less costly than traditional key fobs and are also a bonus for being difficult to duplicate.
For a typical all-in-one laser-cut key you'll probably have to pay between $150 and $250 in labor costs. These keys have to be programmed by the dealer. They remain among the most convenient and secure keys for cars that are available today.
4. Switchblade Keys
Modern cars usually have key fobs that lock and unlock doors as well as start the engine. Contrary to the older mechanical keys that operate mechanically and are easily duplicated by key cutters or locksmiths, these newer car keys have transponder chips built in that must be connected with the vehicle by a dealer or auto locksmith. These keys are typically more expensive, and range between $50 and $100 for the basic version to $200 for models with push-to-start functions.
Fobs that have the "switchblade" key that folds up on itself when not being used, are usually more expensive to replace. The keys are equipped with shanks that retract into the fob, and then pops out at the push of a button when needed. They are more secure than standard keys, which makes them a great alternative for those who need an additional key for valet use. The cost of changing these keys varies from $100 to $300, depending on the vehicle and the type of key.
Unlike the old crank key, which was complex, heavy and dangerous to handle, these electronic keys are lightweight and more convenient. The car keys also make it difficult for thieves to steal them because they are cylindrical. This prevents the use of key-duplicate machines used by criminals to copy your car key.
These wholly electronic car keys communicate electronically to open the doors and begin the engine. Some keys can even do so without having to be taken from the driver's pocket. These keys are costly to replace and require an excursion to the dealer, which may include a towing charge.
5. Transponder Keys
Unlike mechanical keys, transponder keys have a chip in them that transmits an audio frequency signal to the car when it is put into the ignition. The computer system of the vehicle scans the signal to determine whether the serial number is identical to the one on the key. If it is the serial number, the vehicle will let keys to unlock the doors and also start the engine. This is done to prevent car thefts by making it difficult to connect a car's hot wire and to start the engine.
Theoretically, this technology is effective However, car thieves who are smart always find ways to beat it. Furthermore, the chips inside these types of keys aren't as long-lasting as people would like to believe. They can be destroyed quickly, which can result in the key not functioning at all.
The cost of replacing a transponder key can be a significant expense. The cost of the key blank could be as much as $50. Programming it is an additional expense. This process involves using a special machine, which is only available at dealerships for cars.
For this reason, it is best to hire a locksmith who has the right equipment to program transponder keys. It is also a good idea to have your vehicle's details ready, including the year, make, and model. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used and could save you money over time. Locksmiths can usually program the new transponder key for about $150, however it could cost as much as $180 for cars that are equipped with remote transmitters or key fobs. These keys require a specialized programming service that can be performed only by a certified locksmith.