Ten Cost Replacement Car Keys That Really Change Your Life

Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key

If you lose a car key, you need to understand the various costs involved. You can obtain a copy of a car key from any hardware store, however the smart key could require you to visit a locksmith or dealer.

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

1. Type of Key

Car keys have the bizarre ability to disappear in strange places. They can be hard to find, whether they slip out of your pocket while shopping, end up stuck between your couch cushions or fall into the crack in the back seat. In the past, you could simply go to your local hardware store or auto locksmith and purchase a new replacement car Keys.

It's costly to replace a key fob or remote transmitter if you drive an automobile that is equipped with advanced technology. Key fobs and remote transmitters used in these systems are miniature electronic devices, and are packed with circuitry 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 stolen or lost. These plans typically cover just a fraction of cost of replacement car keys with chips, and provide unlimited replacements for lost or stolen keys, in addition to other benefits like towing or roadside assistance.

The type of key that you have will also affect the cost. Some keys are more expensive to replace. Metal keys that don't have a key fob for instance are fairly inexpensive, since they're mechanical, and can be replaced by locksmiths or mechanics who are professionals. However, if the key is equipped with transponder chips, it will require specialized equipment to copy. These devices are available from car dealers or manufacturers and can be a major element in the price.

Laser cut keys are a different aspect that can raise the cost of replacing a car key, since they are usually thicker than regular car keys. They are made of metal that is molded into the desired shape, and then are cut with lasers that are precise to ensure a perfect fit.

2. Key Fob

The loss of keys to your car used to be a minor inconvenience. You could get an alternative key from a locksmith or a car dealership and it was inexpensive to purchase one. As cars have become more technologically advanced as have their keys. This means that replacing a lost key can be more costly.

Key fobs were popular in the 1990s as an additional feature to allow car owners to lock and unlock their vehicle without a physical key. The small plastic fobs have an electronic button that, when pressed, communicates to the computer onboard of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some have buttons that activate the security system of the vehicle or open the trunk.

A key that is not fitted with a fob is akin to those made prior to the 1990s, and it can be cut by an automotive locksmith for a small fee. Some locksmiths will be able to replace your lost fob while they are waiting.

Fobs that contain a transponder or another chip could be more expensive to replace than traditional ones. They can cost as high as $200 to reprogram and pair with a new vehicle and are usually only available through the original dealer.

Many companies that deal with cars, including auto repair shops, car dealerships, and salvage yards, could end having a lot of spare fobs not tied to a specific vehicle. Some of them can be offered to consumers, however certain require specialized equipment and technical expertise to make use of, something that is easily accessible to the typical consumer. It's best to always keep a spare key in your wallet or purse. You can also include GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your policy to make things even easier if you need it.

3. Laser Cut Keys Keys

Laser-cut keys have ridges that are deeper in comparison to traditional mechanical keys. This makes them harder for car thieves.

The blades of the key have cut-outs on both sides which allow keys to be inserted into the ignition cylinder as well as the door lock from either side. These are the most popular car keys available today. They are more popular than traditional key fobs due to the fact that they offer a higher level of security and ease of use.

It is important that the shop cutting keys has the right equipment. You'll end up with an unusable key that doesn't perform as expected when you don't. You must also be aware of the quality of the blade, since poor quality blades can cause damage to the key cutting machine or even break the ignition cylinder.

To cut a laser-cut keys locksmiths need to have your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have this information, they can run it through a computer system to retrieve the specifications for your specific car. Then, they'll employ the CNC to cut the key to these specifications.

They are generally only available through dealers. They are less expensive than traditional key fobs, but they also have an added benefit of being difficult to duplicate.

For an all-in-one key that is laser-cut you'll probably be required to shell out between $150 and $250 in labor costs. The keys must be programmed by the dealer. They are among the most convenient and replacement car keys secure keys for cars available today.

4. Switchblade Keys

Modern cars often use key fobs that lock and unlock doors and start the engine. Contrary to the older mechanical keys which are mechanical and easily duplicated by locksmiths or key cutters These newer car keys have transponder chips built in that must be connected with the vehicle by a dealer or auto locksmith. These keys are more expensive. They range from $50 to $100 in the basic model, and up to $200 for models that include push-to-start functionality.

Fobs that have a "switchblade" key that folds up on itself when not being used they are typically more expensive to replace. These keys come with shanks that retract into the fob and are released when required. They are much more secure than standard keys, which makes them a great alternative for those who require an extra key for valet use. The cost of changing these keys can range between $100-$300, depending on the vehicle and the type.

Contrary to the crank key that was difficult, heavy and dangerous to use, these electronic keys are lightweight and more convenient. These car keys also make it difficult for thieves to steal them as they are cylindrical. This prevents the use of key duplicate devices used by criminals to copy your car keys.

Electronic keys can open doors and start engines without having to remove them from 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

Transponder keys are different from mechanical keys in that they have an electronic chip that transmits an audio-frequency signal to the vehicle when the key is placed in the ignition. The computer system of the vehicle scans the signal to determine if the serial number matches that of the key. If it is, the vehicle will allow keys to unlock the doors and also start the engine. This is done to avoid car thefts by making it difficult to wire a car hot and also to start the engine.

In theory, this is effective, however, clever car thieves are always looking for ways to defeat this technology. The chips inside these keys are also not as long-lasting as some like to believe. They can be destroyed easily, which could result in the key not working at all.

The cost of replacing transponder keys could be costly. The key blank can cost as much as $50. Programming it is an additional cost. This requires a special machine, which is only available at car key replacements dealerships.

It is therefore recommended to employ a professional locksmith who has the equipment to program transponder keys. It is also a good idea to have your car's information ready, including the year model, make, and year. This will help ensure that the correct key blank is used, which will save you money in the long run. Locksmiths can usually program the new transponder key for about $150, but it can cost upwards of $180 for push-to-start cars equipped with remote transmitters or key fobs. These keys require a specialized programming service that can be performed only by a locksmith who is certified.