The Next Big New Cost Replacement Car Key Industry

Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key

If you lose a car key, you need to understand the various costs that are involved. You can copy a basic key at any hardware store, whereas a smart key may require you to go to an auto dealer or locksmith.

There are ways to save money if your fob is not damaged and is not in need of reprogramming.

1. Type of Key

Car keys have a strange ability to disappear into unexpected places. They can be difficult to locate, no matter if they disappear from your pocket while shopping, get stuck between the sofa cushions or fall into the crack in the back of your car. In the past, this meant that you could simply go to your local hardware store or auto locksmith and get a new replacement.

It can be expensive to replace the key fob or remote transmitter if you own a vehicle that has advanced technology. Key fobs and remote transmitters used in these systems are miniature electronic devices, and they're packed with circuitry that could make them quite expensive to replace in the event that you lose them.

It is recommended to consider the possibility of a key fob insurance policy that covers up to $400 dollars per key lost or stolen. These plans typically cost less than the total cost of replacement, and come with unlimited lost or stolen key replacements along with additional benefits like towing insurance and roadside assistance, among others.

The type of key you're using will also impact the cost, with some types being more costly to replace than others. Basic metal keys without a key fob for instance are fairly inexpensive, as they're mechanical, and can be replaced by locksmiths or mechanics who are professionals. If your keys have transponders, you'll require special equipment to duplicate it. These devices are typically accessible through dealerships or car key battery replacement manufacturers and can be a major contributor to the overall cost.

Laser cut keys may increase the cost of a replacement key for cars, since they are more substantial. They are made of metal that is molded into the desired shape, transponder key Replacement then cut using lasers that are precisely calibrated to ensure the perfect fit.

2. Key Fob

Losing your car keys used to be a minor inconvenience. You could get a replacement keys car key from a locksmith shop or a car dealership and it was affordable to purchase it. As automobiles have become more advanced in technology and so have their keys. This means that replacing a lost or damaged key could be more expensive.

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 small plastic fobs 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 of the vehicle or unlock the trunk.

An automotive locksmith can cut traditional keys without a remote for a small charge. This is exactly the same as keys that were made prior to 1990. Some locksmiths will replace the fob that was lost while they are waiting.

Fobs with transponders or another computer chip can be more costly to replace than standard ones. Reprogramming and pairing these can cost as much as $200 and are only accessible through the original dealer for cars.

Many companies that deal 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 specific vehicle. Some of these are available to the public, whereas others require special equipment or technical expertise to program. This is not something that the average person can do. 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 simpler if you require it.

3. Keys Laser Cut Keys

Laser-cut keys have more ridges unlike mechanical keys. This makes them more difficult for car thieves.

Key blades feature two slits which allow the key to be inserted into the ignition cylinder and door lock from either side. These are the most common kind of car keys that are in circulation in the present. They are more popular than key fobs because they offer more security and convenience.

It is crucial that the company cutting keys has the correct equipment. Otherwise, you'll end with a key that does not perform as expected. You should also be aware of the quality of the blade, because poor quality blades can cause damage to the key cutting machine or even break within your ignition cylinder.

The locksmith will require your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a key using lasers. Once they have your VIN, they can run the information through a computer to retrieve the specifications of your car. They will then employ the CNC to cut the key to these specifications.

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

Labor costs for a typical laser-cut all-in-one key can range from $150 and $250. This is due to the fact that these types of key need to be programmed at the dealership. But, they are one of the most secure and convenient keys for cars available today.

4. Switchblade Keys

Many modern cars have key fobs that lock and unlock doors, and start the engine. In contrast to older mechanical keys which work mechanically and are easy to duplicate by locksmiths or key cutters, these newer car keys come with transponder chips that must be connected with the vehicle by the dealer or an auto locksmith. The fobs are typically more expensive, ranging between $50 and $100 for the basic version to $200 for models that have push-to-start capabilities.

Fobs that have the "switchblade" key that folds over itself when not being used, are usually more expensive to replace. These keys have shanks which retract into the fob and pop out when needed. They are more secure than standard keys, which makes them an ideal choice for those who require an additional key to use as a valet. The cost of changing these keys varies from $100 to $300, depending on the vehicle and the type.

The electronic keys are lighter and more user-friendly than the old crank keys that were extremely heavy, complicated and dangerous to handle. The car keys also make it difficult for thieves to steal them, because they are cylindrical. This blocks the use of key duplicate devices used by criminals to copy your car keys.

These keys that are completely electronic communicate electronically to open the doors and start the engine. Some are able to do so without having to be taken from the pocket of the driver. These keys are costly to replace and will require a trip 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 transmits an audio frequency signal to the car whenever it is inserted into the ignition. The signal is then analyzed by the car's computer system 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 begin the engine. The concept behind this is to prevent car theft by making it harder to connect a car's hot wire and then start the engine.

Theoretically it's possible that this technology will work However, car thieves who are smart always find ways to beat it. The chips inside these keys aren't as durable as many would think. They can be easily wiped out, which can result in the key not functioning.

Transponder key replacement costs can be quite expensive. The key blank can cost upwards of $50 and then you have the cost of having it programmed. This process requires a special machine that's only found at car dealerships.

It is therefore best to hire a professional locksmith who has the equipment to program transponder keys. It is also a good idea to keep all of the information for your vehicle including the year model, make and year of the vehicle. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used, and will save you money in the long run. Locksmiths can usually program an entirely new transponder-based key for about $150, however it could cost upwards of $180 for cars with push-to-start capabilities with key fobs or remote transmitters. These keys require a special programming process that is performed only by a certified locksmith.