Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key

It's important to know the cost involved when you lose your car keys. You can get a copy of a standard car key from any hardware store, but the smart key could require you to visit a dealer or locksmith.

However, if the device isn't damaged and doesn't require reprogramming 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 pocket while shopping, or get stuck between the sofa cushions, or fall through the crack in the back seat, they're always a little difficult to locate. In the past, you could visit your local auto locksmith or hardware shop to purchase a new.

It's expensive to replace the key fob or remote transmitter if you own an automobile that is equipped with advanced technology. Key fobs and remote transmitters that are used with these systems are miniature electronic devices, and are packed with circuitry that could be quite costly to replace if you lose them.

You should therefore consider a key fob insurance plan which covers up to 400 dollars per key lost or stolen. These plans typically cost a fraction of the total replacement costs and include unlimited lost or stolen key replacements and additional benefits such as towing coverage and roadside assistance, among other things.

The type of key you're using can also affect the price, with some types being more expensive to replace than other. Basic metal keys without keys with a fob, for example are fairly inexpensive, because they're mechanical and can be replaced by a professional mechanic or locksmith. If your keys have a transponder, you'll need specialized equipment to duplicate it. These machines are available from car dealerships or manufacturers and could be a major factor in the cost.

Laser cut keys may increase the price of the replacement car key fob key for cars, since they are thicker. They are made from metal that is then molded to an exact shape, and cost of replacement Car key then cut using precision lasers to ensure a precise fit.

2. Key Fob

Not too long ago, losing your car keys was not a big inconvenience. A car dealer or locksmith would sell keys to replace them, which was probably relatively affordable. As cars have advanced in technology, so do their keys. This means that replacing a lost or damaged key could be more expensive.

In the 1990s, key fobs were widely used to lock and unlock the vehicle without requiring the physical keys of a car. These small plastic fobs have an electronic button that 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 key that is not fitted with a fob is akin to those that were made prior to the '90s and it can be cut by an automotive locksmith for a small charge. Some locksmiths will repair your lost fob while they wait.

It's more expensive to replace a fob that has an electronic chip or transponder than if it was merely an old-fashioned one. Reprogramming and pairing them could cost upwards of $200 and are only available from the original car dealer.

Many businesses who work with vehicles, such as auto repair shops or dealerships may end up with a lot of spare fobs. Some of these can be offered to consumers, however certain require specialized equipment and knowledge to program, which isn't something that's easily accessible to the average consumer. This is why it's always ideal to keep a spare car key in your pocket or purse, and add the GEICO Emergency Roadside Service to your policy to make it more convenient should you require it.

3. Laser Cut Keys Keys

Laser-cut keys have deeper ridges, unlike traditional mechanical keys. This makes them harder for car thieves to steal.

The blades of the key have cut-outs on both sides that permit the key to be inserted in the ignition cylinder and door lock from either side. These are the most well-known car keys available today. They are more sought-after than traditional key fobs due to the fact that they offer a higher level of security and convenience.

If you're interested in getting a laser-cut key for your vehicle, it's important to make sure that the company cutting keys has the proper equipment. Otherwise, you'll end up with a key that does not work properly. It is also important to consider the quality of the knife as a low-quality one can damage your key cutting machine or cause it to crack inside the ignition cylinder.

The locksmith will need your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a key using lasers. Once they have this information, they can run it through a computer system to get the specifications specific to your car. They will then use an CNC machine to cut the key in accordance with these specifications.

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

The cost of labor for a typical laser-cut, all-in-one key could range from $150 and $250. These keys have to be programmed by the dealer. They are among the most secure and convenient keys for cars that are available today.

4. Switchblade Keys

Many modern vehicles use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, as well as turn on the engine. These newer keys are not mechanical keys that can be duplicated by locksmiths and key cutters. Instead, they have transponder chip technology built in. This chip must be paired by an auto locksmith or dealer to the vehicle. The fobs are typically more expensive, and range between $50 and $100 for the basic version to $200 for models that have push-to-start capabilities.

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

They are lighter and easier to use than the crank keys of the past which were extremely heavy, complicated and hazardous to use. They also make it harder for thieves to steal them since they are cylinder-shaped. 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 needing to take them out of their pockets. These types of keys are costly to replace and will require an excursion to the dealer, which may include a towing charge.

5. Transponder Keys

Unlike mechanical keys, transponder keys are equipped with a chip inside them that relays the radio frequency signal to the car when it is placed in the ignition. The signal is then read by the vehicle's computer system to determine whether it is in line with the serial number of the key. If it matches the serial number, the vehicle will let keys to unlock the doors and also start the engine. This is to stop car thefts by making it harder to connect a car's hot wire and to start the engine.

In theory, this technology is effective but smart car thieves are constantly looking for ways to defeat this technology. The chips inside these keys aren't as long-lasting as some like to think. They can get wiped out quickly, which can lead to the key not working at all.

The cost of replacing a transponder key can be very expensive. The key blank can cost as much as $50 and then you have the cost of programming it. This procedure requires a specific machine that is only available in dealerships for cars.

For this reason, it is recommended to employ locksmiths with the appropriate equipment for programming transponder keys. It is also a good idea to have your car's information ready, including the year, make, and model. This will help ensure that the correct key blank is used, which can save you money in the long run. A locksmith can program a transponder keys typically for $150, however for cars with push-to-start capabilities with key fobs and remote transmitters, it could Cost of replacement car key (http://en.easypanme.com) as high as $180. These keys require a special service that can only be done by a locksmith who is certified.