Ten Cost Replacement Car Keys That Really Improve 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 duplicate a basic key from any hardware store, but an electronic key will require you to go to an auto dealer or locksmith.
There are ways to save money if your device is not damaged and does not need reprogramming.
1. Key Type
Car keys have a peculiar ability to disappear in strange places. They can be difficult to locate, no matter if they fall out of your pocket while shopping, end up stuck between the couch cushions or fall into the crack in the back seat. In the past, you could go to your local hardware store or auto locksmith and purchase a new replacement.
It's costly to replace the key fob or remote transmitter if you have an automobile that is equipped with advanced technology. These systems make use of remote transmitters and key fobs which are tiny electronic devices. They're also stuffed with circuitry, which makes them costly to replace in the event of an eventual loss.
This is why you should consider obtaining a key fob replacement insurance plan that covers up to $400 for each lost or stolen key. These plans typically cost less than total cost of replacement car keys [boyd-mcintyre.blogbright.net] and offer unlimited key replacements in the event of theft or loss and additional benefits like towing insurance and roadside assistance, among others.
The type of key you're using will also impact the cost and some keys are more costly to replace than others. Simple metal keys that do not have keys with a fob, for example are fairly inexpensive, since they're mechanical, and can be replaced by an experienced locksmith or mechanic. However, if the key is equipped with transponder chips, it will require special equipment to copy. These devices are usually available through car dealerships or manufacturers and can be a major driver of the total cost.
Laser cut keys are a different factor that can increase the cost of a replacement car key, since they are generally more substantial than regular car keys. They are made of metal that is then molded into an exact shape, and then are cut using lasers that are precisely calibrated to ensure the perfect fit.
2. Key Fob
Not too long ago the loss of your car key fobs replacement keys was a inconvenience. A locksmith or car dealer could sell you a replacement key which was probably cheap. As cars have advanced in technology, so do their keys. This means that replacing a lost key could be more expensive.
In the 1990s, key fobs became popularized as a way to lock and unlock vehicles without the use of an actual car key. The small plastic fobs have a button that, when pressed sends a signal to the computer of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some also include a button that allows you to activate the vehicle's alarm system or open the trunk.
A locksmith for cars can cut a traditional key without a remote at a small charge. This is the same as those made before 1990. Some locksmiths will even replace lost fobs while you are waiting.
Fobs with a transponder or another chip may be more expensive to replace than standard ones. They can cost up to $200 to reprogram and connect to the new car and are typically only available through the original dealer.
Many businesses who work with cars such as auto repair shops or dealerships could end up with a lot of spare fobs. Some of these are available to the public, whereas others require special equipment or technical expertise to program. This is not something that a typical consumer could do. This is why it's always best to keep an extra car key in your purse or pocket and also add GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service to your policy to make it more convenient should you ever need to use it.
3. Laser Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys have ridges that are deeper, unlike traditional mechanical keys. This makes them more difficult for car keys replacement cost thieves.
Key blades feature cut-outs on both sides which allow the key to be inserted into the ignition cylinder as well as the door lock from either side. These are the most common kind of car keys that are available today. They are more popular than traditional key fobs because they provide a higher degree of security and comfort.
If you're thinking of getting a laser-cut key for your vehicle, it's important to make sure that the place that cuts keys has the proper equipment. You'll get an unusable key that doesn't function properly if you don't. You must also be aware of the quality of the blade, as low-quality blades can damage the cutting mechanism of the key or even break within your ignition cylinder.
To cut a laser-cut keys locksmiths need to have your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have your VIN, they will run the information through a computer to retrieve the specifications of your vehicle. They then utilize the CNC machine to cut the key in accordance with these specifications.
They are usually only available from dealerships. They are more affordable than traditional key fobs but they also have an added benefit of being hard to duplicate.
Labor costs for a typical laser-cut all in-one key will likely range between $150 to $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 practical car keys on the market today.
4. Switchblade Keys
Modern cars often use key fobs that can lock and unlock doors and start the engine. Unlike older mechanical keys, which work mechanically and are easily duplicated by key cutters or locksmiths the newer keys for cars have transponder chips built in which must be linked with the vehicle by the dealer or an auto locksmith. The fobs are typically more expensive, and range from $50 to $100 for the basic model, and up to $200 for models that have push-to-start capabilities.
Fobs with what's referred to as a switchblade, that folds in itself when not in use. typically, they cost more to replace. They have shanks that retract into the fob, and then release when required. They are usually much safer than traditional keys, which makes them a powerful deterrent for thieves. They are also a good alternative for those in need of an extra car key to allow valet usage. Changing these keys can run anywhere from $100 to $300, depending on the car and type of key.
In contrast to the crank key of the past, which was complex, heavy and dangerous to handle, these electronic keys are lighter and easier to use. They also make it harder for thieves to steal them as they are cylindrical. This prevents the use of key-duplicate machines used by criminals to copy your car key.
The keys are entirely electronic and communicate electronically to open the doors and start the engine. Some keys are able to do so without being removed from the driver's pocket. These types of keys are costly to replace and will require a trip to the dealer, which may include a towing charge.
5. Transponder Keys
In contrast to mechanical keys keys contain a chip within them that relays a radio frequency signal to the car replacement keys whenever it is put into the ignition. The signal is then analyzed by the vehicle's computer system to determine whether it matches the serial number of the key. If it does, the vehicle will allow the key to unlock the door and to start the engine. This is done to prevent car thefts by making it difficult to wire a car hot and to start the engine.
Theoretically, this technology is effective however, smart car thieves always find ways to beat it. The chips in these keys are also not as long-lasting as some like to think. They can get wiped out quickly, which could cause the key to stop working at all.
The cost of replacing transponder keys could be costly. The cost of the key blank could be as much as $50. Programming it is an additional cost. This process involves using a specific machine, which is only available at dealerships for cars.
It is therefore recommended to hire a professional locksmith who has the necessary tools to program transponder keys. It is also a good idea to have your vehicle's information ready, such as the year model, make, and year of the vehicle. This will ensure that the right key blank is used, and will save you money in the long run. A locksmith can typically program the new transponder key for around $150, however it could cost up to $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 licensed locksmith.
