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Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key

If you lose a car key, you need to know the different costs that are involved. You can copy a standard key from any hardware store, whereas an electronic key will require you to visit an auto dealer or locksmith.

There are ways to save money if your device is damaged but doesn't require to be reprogrammed.

1. Type of Key

Car keys have a strange ability to disappear in strange places. They can be difficult to find, whether they disappear from your purse when you're out shopping, end up stuck between your couch cushions, or fall into the crack in the back of your car. In the past, you could go to your local auto locksmith or hardware store to get a replacement.

These days however, it could be a costly proposition in the case of a vehicle with advanced technology, like key fob technology and push-to-start. Key fobs or remote transmitters that work with these systems are small electronic devices, and they're packed with electronics that can make them quite expensive to replace if you lose them.

This is why you should think about purchasing the replacement of your key fob insurance plan that covers up to $400 per lost or stolen key. These plans usually cost of a replacement car key less than the total cost of replacement car key fob, and come with unlimited key replacements in the event of theft or loss and additional benefits such as towing coverage and roadside assistance, among others.

The kind of key you're using will also impact the cost, with some types being more expensive to replace than other. For instance, simple keys made of metal with no fob are relatively inexpensive, because they're mechanical, and can be replaced by an experienced locksmith or mechanic. If your key has transponder, you'll need specialized equipment to duplicate it. These devices are typically available through car dealerships or manufacturers, and could be a major driver of the overall cost.

Laser cut keys may increase the cost of a 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 with lasers that are precise to ensure the perfect fit.

2. Key Fob

Not too long ago, losing your car keys was not a big problem. A locksmith or car dealer could offer you a replacement key that was likely to be cheap. As automobiles have become more technologically advanced and so do their keys. This means that replacing a lost car key replacement near me key can be more expensive.

Key fobs became popular during the 90s as an added feature to allow car owners to lock and unlock their vehicle without a physical key. The tiny plastic fobs include a button that, when pressed sends a signal to the computer of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some contain a button that can activate the alarm system in the vehicle or open the trunk.

An automotive locksmith can cut traditional keys without a remote at the cost of a small fee. It's exactly the same as keys made before 1990. Some locksmiths will repair your lost fob while they wait.

It's more costly to replace a fob that contains a transponder or computer chip as opposed to an ordinary one. Reprogramming and pairing these can cost up to $200 and are only available through the original dealer for cars.

Many businesses who work with vehicles, such as auto repair shops or dealerships may have a large number of spare fobs. Some of them could be sold to consumers, but certain require specialized equipment and technical expertise to make use of, something that's easily accessible to the common consumer. It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your wallet or purse. You can also include GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your insurance policy to make it easier if you need it.

3. Keys Laser Cut Keys

Unlike traditional mechanical keys, laser-cut keys have more ridges and grooves. This makes them more difficult for car thieves to steal.

They also have slits inserted into both sides of the key blade that allow them to be inserted into the door and the ignition cylinder lock in either direction. These are the most well-known car keys on the market today. They are more popular than key fobs because they offer more security and convenience.

It is crucial that the shop cutting the keys has the proper equipment. You'll get a key which doesn't work properly if you don't. Be aware of the quality of the blade, as low-quality blades can damage the cutting mechanism of the key or even break inside your ignition cylinder.

The locksmith will require your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a laser-cut key. Once they have your VIN, they can run the data through a computer to find the specifications of your vehicle. They can then use the CNC machine to cut the key in accordance with these specifications.

They require specialized machinery to create, and they are usually only available at dealerships. They are less expensive than traditional key fobs, but they also have the added benefit of being difficult to duplicate.

For an all-in-one key that is laser-cut you'll need to pay between $150 and $250 for labor costs. This is because these kinds of key need to be programmed at the dealership. They are nevertheless one of the most secure and reliable car keys on the market today.

4. Switchblade Keys

A lot of modern cars use key fobs to lock and unlock doors, and turn on the engine. These newer keys are not mechanical keys that are easily duplicated by locksmiths or key cutters. Instead, they feature transponder chip technology built in. This chip must be paired by an auto locksmith or dealer to the vehicle. These keys are more expensive. They vary from $50 to $100 for the basic model up to $200 for models that have push-to-start functionality.

Fobs with the "switchblade" key, which folds in on itself when not being used they are typically more expensive to replace. These keys come with shanks that retract into the fob, and then release when needed. They are usually much more secure than traditional keys, which makes them a great deterrent for thieves and a great alternative for those who need an extra car key for valet use. The cost of replacing these keys ranges between $100-$300 depending on the type of vehicle and the type of key.

These electronic keys are lighter and easier to use than the old crank keys that were extremely heavy, complicated and dangerous to handle. The keys for cars are much harder to steal as they are cylindrical, which assists in preventing the use of key duplicate devices that are used by criminals to create illegal copies of your car's key.

These wholly electronic car keys communicate electronically to open the doors and begin the engine - some can even do so without being removed from the driver's pocket. These keys are expensive to replace and will require an appointment with a dealer, which may include a towing charge.

5. Transponder Keys

In contrast to mechanical keys keys have a chip in them that relays an audio frequency signal to the car when it is placed in the ignition. The computer system in the vehicle reads the signal to determine whether the serial number matches the one on the key. If it matches the key's serial number, the vehicle will allow the key to unlock the door and start the engine. This is done to prevent car thefts by making it harder to connect a car's hot wire and to start the engine.

In the theory of it, this is efficient but the most sophisticated car thieves are always trying to outwit this technology. Additionally, the chips in these types of keys aren't as durable as many would like to believe. They are easily cleaned out, which can result in the key not functioning.

The Cost Replacement car key of replacing a transponder key can be quite expensive. The key blank can cost upwards of $50 and then there's the added expense of programming it. This process involves using an exclusive machine that is only available at car dealerships.

It is recommended to employ locksmiths with the appropriate equipment for programming transponder keys. It is also recommended to have all 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 will save you money over time. Locksmiths typically can program the new transponder key for about $150, however it could cost upwards of $180 for push-to-start cars equipped with key fobs or remote transmitters. These keys require a specific programming process that is performed only by a certified locksmith.