Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key<br /><br />When you lose a car key, you need to understand the various costs associated with. 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.<br /><br />There are ways to save money if your device is damaged but does not need programming.<br /><br />1. Key Type<br /><br />Car keys have the bizarre ability to disappear into unexpected places. They can be lost in your purse while shopping, are tucked between the couch cushions or fall into the crack of the back seat and are a bit hard to find. In the past, you could simply go to your local hardware store or auto locksmith and purchase a new replacement.<br /><br />Today, however, that can be an expensive proposition if you're driving a vehicle equipped with the latest technology, such as push-to-start and key fob technology. The key fobs or remote transmitters used in these systems are small electronic devices, and they're packed with electronics that can be quite costly to replace in the event that you lose them.<br /><br />This is the reason you should consider obtaining a key fob replacement insurance plan, which will cover up to $400 per lost or stolen key. These plans typically cover a fraction of total replacement costs, and offer unlimited replacements for stolen or lost keys as well as other benefits like towing or roadside assistance.<br /><br />The type of key you're using will also impact the cost as some keys are more expensive to replace than others. Basic metal keys without a key fob for instance, are relatively cheap, as they're mechanical, and can be replaced by locksmiths or mechanics who are professionals. If your key is equipped with a transponder chip, it'll require special equipment to copy. These machines are only available from car dealers or manufacturers and are a significant factor in the cost.<br /><br />Laser cut keys are a different aspect that can raise the cost of a replacement car key, as these are typically heavier than regular keys. They are made of metal that is molded into an exact shape, and then cut with lasers to ensure a precise fit.<br /><br />2. Key Fob<br /><br />Losing your car keys used to be a minor issue. A locksmith or car dealer could sell keys to replace them which was probably affordable. However since automobiles have become more technologically advanced and so have keys, and this means that replacing a lost one can be a lot more expensive than it used to be.<br /><br />In the 1990s, key fobs became popularized as a way to lock and unlock vehicles without the use of the physical keys of a car. 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 also contain a button that can activate the alarm system in the vehicle or open the trunk.<br /><br />A key that is not fitted with a fob is similar to the ones made prior to the 1990s, and it can be cut by an auto locksmith for a fee. Some locksmiths can even replace lost fobs while you wait.<br /><br />It's more expensive to replace a fob that contains a computer chip or transponder than if it was merely an ordinary one. Reprogramming and pairing them could cost as much as $200 and are only available through the original dealer of the car.<br /><br />Many companies that deal with automobiles, including auto repair shops, car dealerships, and salvage yards may end up with quite a few spare fobs not tied to a particular vehicle. Some of these can be offered to consumers, however certain require specialized equipment and technical knowledge to make use of, something that's readily available to the common consumer. It's a good idea to keep an extra key in your pocket or purse. You can also add GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your policy to make it easier in the event of need.<br /><br />3. Laser Cut Keys<br /><br />Laser-cut keys have more ridges unlike mechanical keys. These make them more difficult for thieves in cars to duplicate.<br /><br />Key blades feature slits on both sides that permit keys to be inserted into the ignition cylinder and door lock from either side. They are the most popular kind of car keys that are in circulation in the present. They are more popular than key fobs because they provide more security and convenience.<br /><br />It is essential that the place cutting the keys has the right equipment. If not, you'll end up with a key that does not perform as expected. You should also consider the quality of the knife since a poor quality knife could cause damage to your key cutting machine or cause it to break inside the ignition cylinder.<br /><br />The locksmith will need your vehicle identification number (VIN) to cut a laser-cutted key. Once they have your VIN, they will run the information through a computer to retrieve the specifications of your car. They will then use the CNC machine to cut the key in accordance with these specifications.<br /><br />They are typically only available through dealerships. They are more affordable than traditional key fobs but they also have an added benefit of being difficult to duplicate.<br /><br />Labor costs for a typical laser-cut all in-one key will likely range between $150-$250. This is because these kinds of key need to be programmed at the dealership. But, they are one of the most secure and reliable keys for cars on the market today.<br /><br />4. Switchblade Keys<br /><br /><br /><br />Modern cars often use key fobs that are able to lock and unlock doors and start the engine. These aren't mechanical keys that are easily duplicated by locksmiths and key cutters. Instead, they have transponder chip technology in the. The chip must be connected by an auto locksmith or dealer with the vehicle. These keys are typically more expensive, and range from $50 to $100 for the basic model to $200 for models with push-to-start functions.<br /><br />Fobs that contain what's known as a switchblade key which folds into itself when not in use, typically, they cost more to replace. The keys are equipped with shanks that retract into the fob, which is released at the push of a button when required. They are far more secure than standard keys, making them a great alternative for those who need an additional key to use as a valet. The cost of replacing these keys ranges between $100 and $300 depending on the car and the type.<br /><br />In contrast to the crank key of the past, which was heavy, complicated and dangerous to use, these electronic keys are lightweight and more convenient. <a href="https://cochran-gross-2.federatedjournals.com/its-history-of-car-key-battery-replacement-1726482994">auto car key replacement</a> for cars are more difficult to steal as they are cylindrical, a feature that assists in preventing the use of key duplicate devices used by criminals to make illegal copies of your car's key.<br /><br />The keys are entirely electronic and communicate electronically to open the doors and begin the engine - some are even able to do this without having to be removed from the driver's pocket. These keys are expensive to replace and require a trip to the dealer, which could include a towing charge.<br /><br />5. Transponder Keys<br /><br />Transponder keys are different from mechanical keys due to the fact that they have the chip that sends a radio-frequency signal to the vehicle when the key is inserted in the ignition. The signal is then read by the car's computer system to determine whether it matches the serial number of the key. If it does, the vehicle will allow the key unlock the door and also start the engine. This is to stop car thefts by making it more difficult to connect a car's hot wire and to start the engine.<br /><br />In the theory of it, this is efficient but the most sophisticated car thieves are always finding ways to beat this technology. Furthermore, the chips inside these types of keys aren't as long-lasting as many would like to believe. They are easily cleaned out, resulting in the key not working.<br /><br />The cost of replacing transponder keys can be expensive. The key blank itself could cost up to $50 and then you have the added expense of programming it. This procedure requires a specific machine, which is only available at car dealerships.<br /><br />It is recommended to find a locksmith professional who has the necessary tools to program transponder keys. It is also recommended to have all of the details of your vehicle in order including the year and make, as well as the model. This will ensure that the right key blank is used and could save you money over time. Locksmiths can program a transponder key typically for $150, but for push-to start cars equipped with key fobs and remote transmitters, it could cost as high as $180. These keys require a special programming service that can be performed only by a locksmith who is certified.<br /><br />