Seven Reasons Why Cost Replacement Car Key Is Important

Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key

It's important to know the costs involved when you lose your car keys. You can copy a standard key from any hardware store, whereas the smart key might require you to visit a locksmith or dealership.

However, if the fob is damaged but doesn't require changing its programming there are ways to reduce costs.

1. Type of Key

Car keys have a strange ability to disappear into unexpected places. They can be hard to find, whether they slip out of your pocket when you're shopping, are stuck between the sofa cushions, or fall into the crack in the back seat. In the past, this meant that you could simply go to your local hardware store or auto locksmith and get a new replacement.

Nowadays, however, that can be an expensive proposition in the case of a vehicle equipped with the latest technology, such as key fob technology or push-to-start. These systems use key fobs and remote transmitters, which are tiny electronic devices. They're also packed with circuitry, which makes them expensive to replace in the event of the loss.

This is the reason you should consider obtaining the cheapest replacement car keys of your key fob insurance plan, which covers up to $400 per lost or stolen key. These plans usually cost less than total cost of replacement and offer unlimited lost or stolen key replacements along with additional benefits like towing coverage and roadside assistance, to name a few.

The type of key you own will also impact the cost. Some keys are more expensive to replace. Metal keys that don't have a key fob, for example are relatively inexpensive as they're mechanical, and can be replaced by a professional mechanic or locksmith. However, if your key is equipped with transponder chips, it will require specialized equipment to duplicate. These devices are available from car dealers or manufacturers and are a significant factor in the cost.

Laser cut keys are another factor that can increase the cost of a replacement car key, as these are usually more substantial than regular car keys. They are made from metal that is then molded into the desired shape, and then cut using precision lasers for a perfect fit.

2. Key Fob

Not too long ago, losing your car keys was not a big nuisance. You could get keys replacements from a locksmith or a car dealership, and it was likely inexpensive to purchase one. However since automobiles have evolved in terms of technology as well, so have their keys, and that means replacing a lost key could be How Much Is A Replacement Car Key Uk more expensive than it was in the past.

Key fobs became popular in the '90s as an extra feature that allowed car owners to lock and unlock their vehicle without the need for a physical key. These tiny plastic keys have a button which, when hit by the user signals the onboard computer to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some of them have buttons that trigger the security system of the vehicle or unlock the trunk.

A traditional key with no fob is similar to the ones that were made prior to the '90s and it can be cut by an automotive locksmith for a small charge. Some locksmiths will be able to replace the fob that was lost while they are waiting.

It's more costly to replace a fob that has a computer chip or transponder than if it were a traditional one. They can cost as high as $200 to reprogram and pair with the new car, and they are generally only available through the original dealer.

Many companies that deal with vehicles, such as auto repair shops, car dealerships, and salvage yards may end having a lot of spare fobs that aren't tied to a particular vehicle. Some of them can be sold to consumers, but certain require specialized equipment and technical knowledge to make use of, something that's easily accessible to the average consumer. This is why it's always best to keep a spare 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 require it.

3. Keys Laser Cut Keys

Unlike traditional mechanical keys, laser-cut keys have deeper ridges and grooves. These make them more difficult for car thieves to duplicate.

Key blades feature cut-outs on both sides that 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 available today. They are more popular than traditional key fobs due to the fact that they provide a higher degree of security and convenience.

If you're thinking of getting a laser-cut key for your vehicle, it's essential to make sure the shop that is cutting keys has the appropriate equipment. Otherwise, you'll end with a key that doesn't work properly. You must also be aware of the quality of the blade, because poor quality blades can cause damage to the cutting mechanism of the key or even break inside your ignition cylinder.

To cut a laser-cut keys, the locksmith will require your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have your VIN, they are able to run the data through a computer to retrieve the specifications of your vehicle. They then utilize an CNC machine to cut the key based on these specifications.

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

For a typical all-in-one laser-cut key, you'll likely be required to shell out between $150 and $250 in labor costs. The keys must be programmed by the dealer. But, they are one of the most secure and convenient keys for cars on the market today.

4. Switchblade Keys

Modern cars often use key fobs that can lock and unlock doors as well as start the engine. Contrary to the older mechanical keys which work mechanically and are easy to duplicate by key cutters or locksmiths, these newer car keys contain transponder chips which must be linked with the vehicle by a dealer or an auto locksmith. These keys can be more expensive. They vary between $50 and $100 for the basic model up to $200 for models that have push-to-start functions.

Fobs with what's referred to as a switchblade key that folds in itself when not in use, typically cost more to replace. The keys are equipped with shanks that retract into the fob, which then pops out at the push of a button whenever needed. They are generally safer than traditional keys, making them a great deterrent to thieves and are a good alternative for those who require an extra car key to allow valet usage. Keys that are changed can cost between $100 and $300 based on the car and the type of key.

The electronic keys are lighter and easier to use than the crank keys of the past which were extremely heavy, complicated and hazardous to use. These car key lost replacement keys also make it harder for thieves to steal them, as 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 keys are even able to do so without being removed from the driver's pocket. Changing these types of car keys could be costly and typically require a trip to the dealership, which may or may not include a towing cost.

5. Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are different from mechanical keys due to the fact that they feature a chip that transmits a radio-frequency signal to the vehicle when the key is placed in the ignition. The computer system in the vehicle scans the signal to determine whether the serial number matches the one on the key. If it does, the vehicle will allow the key to open the door and start the engine. The concept behind this is to prevent car theft by making it harder to connect a car's hot wire and start the engine.

In the theory of it, this is efficient However, clever car thieves are always trying to outwit this technology. The chips in these keys aren't as long-lasting as some like to believe. They are easily cleaned out, resulting in the key not working.

The cost of replacing transponder keys could be high. The key blank itself could cost upwards of $50 and then you have the additional expense of having it programmed. This process requires a special machine that's only found in dealerships for cars.

This is why it is recommended to employ a locksmith who has the right equipment to program transponder keys. It is also a good idea to have your car's information prepared, such as the year, make, and model. This will ensure that the correct key blank is used and could save you money in the long run. A locksmith can typically program the new transponder key for around $150, however it could cost upwards of $180 for cars that are equipped with key fobs or remote transmitters. These keys require a special programming process that is performed only by a certified locksmith.