Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key If you lose your car key, you need to know the different costs involved. You can get a copy of a car key from any hardware shop, but a smart key may require you to visit a locksmith or dealer. However, if the device is damaged but doesn't need to be reprogrammed, there are ways to cut costs. 1. Type of Key Car keys have the ability to disappear in the most surprising places. Whether they slip out of your purse while shopping, are tucked between the sofa cushions, or fall through the crack in your back seat, they're always a little difficult to locate. In the past, you could just pop into your local hardware store or auto locksmith and get a new replacement. Today however, it can be an expensive proposition in the case of a vehicle with advanced technology, like key fob technology or push-to-start. These systems make use of remote transmitters and key fobs which are tiny electronic devices. They're also loaded with circuitry, making them costly to replace in the event of a loss. This is the reason you should consider getting an insurance replacement for your key fob plan, which will cover up to $400 per lost or stolen key. These plans typically represent only a small fraction of the total replacement costs and include unlimited replacements for stolen or lost keys, as well as additional benefits like towing or roadside assistance. The type of key you own will also impact the cost. Some keys are more expensive to replace. For instance, basic keys made of metal with no fob are quite affordable, since they're mechanical and can be easily replaced by an expert locksmith or mechanic. If your keys have transponders, you'll require specialized equipment to duplicate it. These devices are typically accessible through dealerships or car manufacturers and can be a major contributor to the overall cost. Laser cut keys are yet another factor that could increase the cost of replacing a car key, as these are usually thicker than regular car keys. They are made of metal that is molded to a particular shape, and then are cut using lasers that are precisely calibrated to ensure a perfect fit. 2. Key Fob Losing keys to your car used to be a minor issue. A car dealer or locksmith could offer you a new key, which was probably relatively cheap. However as auto replacement key have evolved in terms of technology as well, so have their keys, and that means replacing a lost key could be 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. The small plastic fobs come with a button which, when it is pressed by the user sends a signal to the computer onboard to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some also contain a button that can activate the alarm system of the vehicle or open the trunk. A traditional key without a fob is similar to those made before the '90s, and it can be cut by an automotive locksmith for a fee. Some locksmiths will replace your fob while they are waiting. It can be more expensive to replace a fob that contains an electronic chip or transponder than if it were an old-fashioned one. Reprogramming and pairing them can cost as much as $200 and are only accessible 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 not tied to a specific vehicle. Some of them could be sold to consumers, but some require special equipment and knowledge to make use of, something that is easily accessible to the common consumer. It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your purse or pocket. 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 Keys Contrary to traditional mechanical keys laser-cut keys have deeper grooves and ridges. This makes them more difficult for car thieves. They also have slits that are inserted into both sides of the key blade, which allows them to be put into the door and ignition cylinder lock from either direction. They are the most commonly used kind of car keys that are in circulation these days. They are more sought-after than traditional keys because they provide a higher degree of security and ease of use. It is important that the shop cutting the keys has the right equipment. You'll end with a key which doesn't work properly if you don't. You should also be aware of the quality of the blade, as poor quality blades can cause damage to the key cutting machine or even break the ignition cylinder. The locksmith will need your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a laser-cut key. Once they have this information, they can run it through an electronic system to find the specifications for your specific vehicle. Then, they will employ a CNC to cut the key to these specifications. They are generally only available through dealers. However, they are much less costly than traditional key fobs and have the added bonus of being difficult to duplicate. The labor costs for a typical laser-cut all-in-one key can range from $150 and $250. This is because these kinds of keys must be programmed at the dealership. They are nevertheless one of the most secure and reliable keys for cars available today. 4. Switchblade Keys Many modern vehicles use key fobs to lock and unlock doors, and also turn on the engine. These aren't mechanical keys that can be easily duplicated by locksmiths or key cutters. Instead, they come with transponder chip technology built in. This chip must be connected by an auto locksmith or dealer to the vehicle. These keys can be more expensive. They vary from $50 to $100 in the basic version up to $200 for models with push-to-start functionality. Fobs that contain what's known as a switchblade key that folds in itself when not in use, typically, they cost more to replace. They have shanks that retract into the fob, and then release when required. They are usually much more secure than standard keys, which makes them a great deterrent to thieves and a great alternative for those who require an extra car key to allow valet use. The cost of replacing these keys ranges between $100 and $300 depending on the type of vehicle and the type of key. These electronic keys are lighter and simpler to use than the old crank keys, which were difficult, heavy and hazardous to use. They also make it more difficult for thieves to steal them because they are cylindrical. This stops the use of key-duplicate machines that criminals use to copy your car keys. Electronic keys can open doors and start engines without the driver needing to take them out of their pockets. Making changes to these types of car keys can be expensive and will typically require a trip to the dealer which may or not include a towing cost. 5. Transponder Keys Unlike mechanical keys, transponder keys have a chip in them that transmits a radio frequency signal to the car whenever it is inserted into the ignition. The computer system of the vehicle reads the signal to determine if the serial number matches the one on the key. If it does, the vehicle will allow the key to unlock the door and start the engine. The concept behind this is to deter car theft by making it more difficult to connect a car's hot wire and start the engine. In theory, this is effective However, the most sophisticated car thieves are always trying to outwit this technology. The chips in these keys are also not as durable as people think. They can be destroyed easily, which could lead to the key not working at all. The cost of replacing transponder keys could be expensive. The key blank itself can cost upwards of $50 and then there's the additional expense of programming it. This process requires a special machine that's only found in car dealerships. It is therefore recommended to employ a professional locksmith with the right tools to program transponder keys. It is also a great idea to have your vehicle's information prepared, such as the year, make, and model. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used, which can save you money in the end. A locksmith can typically program the new transponder key for about $150, but it can cost up to $180 for cars that are equipped with remote transmitters or key fobs. These keys require a special service that can only be done by a locksmith who is certified.
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