Ten Cost Replacement Car Key That Will Actually Make Your Life Better
Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key
It's important to know the costs involved if you lose your car key. You can find a duplicate of a car key at any hardware store, however a smart key may require you to visit a dealer or locksmith.
However, if the device is merely damaged and doesn't require reprogramming, there are ways to cut costs.
1. Key Type
Car keys have the ability to disappear in the most unexpected places. They can be lost in your pocket while shopping, get wedged between the couch cushions or fall through the crack in your back seat, they're always a little difficult to locate. In the past, you could simply pop into your local hardware or auto locksmith store to purchase a replacement.
It can be expensive to replace the key fob or remote transmitter if you have a vehicle that has advanced technology. The key fobs or remote transmitters that are used with these systems are small electronic devices, and they're packed with electronics that can cause them to be expensive to replace if you lose them.
You should therefore consider the possibility of a key fob insurance policy that covers up to 400 dollars for each key that is stolen or lost. These plans typically cost less than total replacement costs and include unlimited lost or stolen key replacements as well as additional benefits like towing coverage and roadside assistance, among others.
The type of key that you own will also impact the cost. Some keys are more expensive to replace. Metal keys that don't have key fobs for instance, are relatively cheap, because they're mechanical and can be replaced by locksmiths or mechanics who are professionals. If your keys have transponders, you'll require specialized equipment to duplicate it. These machines are available from car manufacturers or dealerships and can be a major element in the price.
Laser cut keys are another factor that could increase the cost of a replacement car key, since they are generally more substantial than regular car keys. They are made from metal that is molded into a particular shape, and then are cut using precision lasers for the perfect fit.
2. Key Fob
Not too long ago, losing your car keys was not a big nuisance. A car dealer or locksmith could sell keys to replace them, which was probably relatively inexpensive. However as automobiles have evolved in terms of technology, so too have their keys, which means replacing a lost key could be a lot more expensive than it used to be.
Key fobs were popular in the '90s as an extra feature to allow car owners to lock and unlock their vehicle 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 of them have buttons that trigger the security system in the vehicle or open the trunk.
A traditional key with no fob is akin to those made prior to the 1990s, and can be cut by an auto locksmith for a small fee. Some locksmiths can even repair lost fobs while you are waiting.
Fobs with transponders or another computer chip may be more expensive to replace than conventional ones. Reprogramming and pairing these can cost as much as $200 and are only accessible through the original dealer of the car.
Many companies that deal with automobiles, including auto repair shops, car dealerships and salvage yards may end having a lot of spare fobs that aren't tied to a specific vehicle. car key replacement near me of these can be sold to consumers, but certain require specialized equipment and knowledge to make use of, something that's readily available to the average consumer. recommended 's a good idea to keep a spare key in your purse or pocket. You can also add GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your insurance policy to make things easier if you need it.
3. Laser Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys have more ridges unlike mechanical keys. They are also more difficult for car thieves to duplicate.
The key blades have two slits that allow the key to be put in the ignition cylinder and door lock from either side. They are among the most sought-after car keys on the market today. They are more popular than key fobs, because they offer greater security and ease of use.
It is important that the place cutting keys has the right equipment. You'll get a key which doesn't function properly when you don't. Be aware of the quality of the blade, since low-quality blades can damage the key cutting machine or even break inside your ignition cylinder.
The locksmith will need your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a laser-cut key. Once they have your VIN, they can run the information through a computer in order to determine the specifications of your vehicle. They can then use a CNC machine to cut the key according to these specifications.
These keys require special machinery to create, and they are usually only available at dealerships. They are more affordable than traditional key fobs, but they also have an added benefit of being difficult to duplicate.
The labor costs for a typical laser-cut all-in-one key could range from $150 and $250. This is due to the fact that these types of keys need to be programmed by the dealership. They are still one of the most convenient and secure keys for cars that are available today.
4. Switchblade Keys
A lot of modern cars utilize key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, as well as turn on the engine. Unlike 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 need to be paired with the vehicle by the dealer or auto locksmith. These keys are typically more expensive, and range between $50-$100 for the basic model, and up to $200 for models with push-to-start capabilities.
Fobs that contain what's known as a switchblade key, that folds in itself when not in use, typically cost more to replace. The keys are equipped with shanks that retract into the fob, and then pops out at the push of a button when required. They are generally more secure than traditional keys, which makes them a great deterrent for thieves. They are also a good alternative for those who require an extra car key for valet use. The cost of changing these keys can range from $100 to $300 depending on the type of vehicle and the type.
They are lighter and simpler to use than the old crank keys which were difficult, heavy and hazardous to use. These car keys are also more difficult to steal as they are cylindrical, a feature that helps to prevent the use of key-duplicate devices used by criminals to create illegal copies of the keys to your car.
Electronic keys can open doors and start engines without the driver needing to take them out of their pockets. These types of keys are expensive to replace and require an excursion to the dealer, which may include a towing cost.
5. Transponder Keys
In contrast to mechanical keys keys have a chip in them that relays an audio frequency signal to the car whenever it is placed in the ignition. The signal is then read by the computer system of the vehicle to determine if it matches the serial number of the key. If it does, the vehicle will allow the key to open the door and start the engine. The idea behind this is to deter car theft by making it harder to connect a car's hot wire and start the engine.
Theoretically, this technology is effective however, smart car thieves constantly find ways to defeat it. The chips inside the keys aren't as long-lasting as some like to think. They are able to be easily washed out, which can result in the key not working.
The cost of replacing transponder keys could be high. The key blank itself could cost as much as $50 and then there's the cost of having it programmed. This procedure requires a specific machine that is only available at dealerships for cars.
It is best to hire a locksmith who has the proper equipment to program transponder keys. It is also an excellent idea to keep all of the information for your vehicle, including the year and make, as well as the model. This will ensure that the right key blank is used and could save you money in the long run. A locksmith can typically program the new transponder key for around $150, but it can cost as much as $180 for cars that are equipped with remote transmitters or key fobs. These keys require a specialized service that is only performed by a certified Locksmith.