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Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key

It's important to know the costs involved if you lose your car key. You can duplicate a basic key from any hardware store, but an electronic key will require you to visit an auto dealer or cost replacement car key locksmith.

However, if the device isn't damaged and doesn't need to be reprogrammed there are ways to cut costs.

1. Type of Key

Car keys have a strange ability to disappear into unexpected places. They can be difficult to locate, whether they slip out of your pocket while shopping, get stuck between the sofa cushions or fall into a crack in the back of your car. In the past, you could pop into your local hardware or auto locksmith shop to purchase a new.

Nowadays, however, that can be quite costly when you're driving a car equipped with the latest technology, such as push-to-start and key fob technology. The key fobs or remote transmitters that are used with these systems are tiny electronic devices, and they're packed with electronics that can cause them to be expensive to replace in the event that you lose them.

Consider a key fob insurance plan that will cover up to 400 dollars per key that is stolen or lost. These plans typically cover a fraction of cost of replacement, and offer unlimited replacements for lost or stolen keys, as well as additional benefits such as towing and roadside assistance.

The type of key you're using will also impact the cost, with some types being more expensive to replace than others. Basic metal keys without key fobs, for example, are relatively cheap, because they're mechanical and can be replaced by an experienced locksmith or mechanic. If your keys have transponder, you'll need an equipment that is specifically designed to duplicate it. These machines are available from car dealers or manufacturers and can be a major element in the price.

Laser cut keys are yet another factor that could increase the cost of replacing a car key, as these are usually more substantial than regular car keys. They are made of metal that is molded to a particular shape, and then cut with lasers that are precise to ensure a perfect fit.

2. Key Fob

Not too long ago the loss of your car keys was not a big nuisance. You could get an alternative key from a locksmith or car dealership and it was inexpensive to purchase one. However as cars have become more technologically advanced 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 1990s as an additional feature that allowed car owners to lock and unlock their car without 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 of them have buttons that trigger the security system of the vehicle or unlock the trunk.

A traditional key without a fob is similar to those that were made prior to the '90s and it can be cut by an automotive locksmith for a fee. Some locksmiths will replace the fob that was lost while they are waiting.

Fobs that contain a transponder or other computer chip can be more costly to replace than conventional ones. They can cost up to $200 to reprogram and pair with an entirely new car key replacement vehicle and are typically only available through the dealer who sold the original car.

Many businesses that work with vehicles, such as auto repair shops, car dealerships and salvage yards could end up with quite a few spare fobs that aren't attached to a particular vehicle. Some of these are available to the general public, while others require specialized equipment or technical skills to program. This isn't something that the average person can do. This is why it's ideal to keep a spare car key in your purse or pocket and add the GEICO Emergency Roadside Service to your policy to make it more convenient should you ever need to use it.

3. Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys

Contrary to traditional mechanical keys laser-cut keys have deeper ridges and grooves. They make them harder for thieves in cars to duplicate.

Key blades feature slits on both sides that permit keys to be inserted into the ignition cylinder as well as the door lock from either side. They are the most commonly used type of car keys in circulation in the present. They are more sought-after than traditional key fobs because they provide a higher degree of security and ease of use.

It is crucial that the shop cutting keys has the right equipment. Otherwise, you'll end up with a key that does not perform as expected. You must also think about the quality of the knife, cost replacement Car key since a poor quality knife could cause damage to your key cutting machine or cause it to break inside the ignition cylinder.

To cut a laser-cut keys, the locksmith will need to have your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have your VIN, they are able to run the information through a computer to find the specifications of your car. They will then use a CNC machine to cut the key according to these specifications.

They are typically only available through dealerships. They are less expensive than traditional key fobs, but they also have the added benefit of being hard to duplicate.

The labor costs for a typical laser-cut all in-one key could range from $150 and $250. This is because these types of keys need to be programmed by the dealership. But, they are one of the most secure and practical car keys on the market today.

4. Switchblade Keys

Modern cars often use key fobs that lock and unlock doors and start the engine. In contrast to older mechanical keys that operate mechanically and are easy to duplicate by locksmiths or key cutters the newer keys for cars have transponder chips built in that must be connected with the vehicle by a dealer or an auto locksmith. These fobs are generally more expensive, and range between $50-$100 for the basic model, and up to $200 for models with push-to-start features.

Fobs that contain what's known as a switchblade, which folds into itself when not in use, typically Cost Replacement Car Key more to replace. These keys come with shanks that retract into the fob, and then release when needed. They are generally more secure than traditional keys, making them a great deterrent for thieves and a great alternative for those in need of an extra car key to allow valet usage. The cost of replacing these keys ranges between $100-$300 depending on the type of vehicle and the type of key.

In contrast to the crank key of the past that was heavy, complicated, and dangerous to handle keys that are electronic are lighter and easier to use. The car keys also make it difficult for thieves to steal them, as they are cylindrical. This blocks the use of key-duplicate machines that criminals use to copy your car key.

These keys are electronic and can open doors and start engines without the driver needing to take them out of their pockets. The process of changing these kinds of car keys can be expensive and will usually require a visit to the dealer, which may or may not include a towing charge.

5. Transponder Keys

In contrast to mechanical keys, transponder keys contain a chip within them that transmits an audio frequency signal to the car when it is inserted into the ignition. The computer system in the vehicle scans the signal to determine whether the serial number matches the one on the key. If it does the serial number, the vehicle will let the key unlock the door and also start the engine. This is to stop car thefts by making it difficult to wire a car hot and to start the engine.

In theory, this is effective, however, clever car thieves are always finding ways to beat this technology. Furthermore, the chips inside these keys aren't as long-lasting as people would like to believe. They can be easily wiped out, resulting in the key not functioning.

The cost of replacing a transponder key can be quite expensive. The cost of the key blank could be up to $50. Programming it is a cost additional. This procedure requires a specific machine that's only found in dealerships for cars.

It is recommended to hire a professional locksmith who has the tools to program transponder keys. It is also a good idea to have all your vehicle's information ready including the year, make and model. This will ensure that the right key blank is used and can save you money over time. A locksmith can typically program a new transponder key for about $150, however it could cost as much as $180 for cars that are equipped with key fobs or remote transmitters. These keys require a specific programming service that can be performed only by a licensed locksmith.