Ten Cost Replacement Car Keys That Really Make Your Life Better

Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key

It how.much is a replacement car key important to be aware of the cost involved when you lose your car keys. You can copy a basic key from any hardware store, while the smart key might require you to go to a locksmith or dealership.

However, if the device is damaged but does not require changing its programming there are ways to cut costs.

1. Key Type

Car keys have an uncanny ability to disappear from the most unexpected places. If they disappear from your purse while shopping, are tucked between the couch cushions, or fall into the crack in your back seat, they're always a little difficult to locate. In the past, you could just pop into your local auto locksmith or hardware store and purchase a new replacement.

These days it can be quite costly when you're driving a car with advanced technology, like key fob technology and push-to-start. These systems make use of remote transmitters and key fobs which are tiny electronic devices. They're also loaded with circuitry, which makes them expensive to replace in the event of the loss.

You should therefore consider a key fob insurance plan that will cover up to $400 dollars per key that is stolen or lost. These plans usually cost a fraction of the total replacement costs and include unlimited key replacements for lost or stolen keys and additional benefits like towing insurance and roadside assistance, among others.

The kind of key you're using will also impact the cost as some keys are more expensive to replace than other. For example, basic metal keys with no key fob are quite affordable, because they're mechanical, and can be easily replaced by an expert locksmith or mechanic. If your keys have transponder, you'll need an equipment that is specifically designed to duplicate it. These devices are available from car dealerships or manufacturers and could be a major factor in the cost.

Laser cut keys are yet another aspect that can raise the cost of a replacement car key costs car key, as these are typically heavier than regular keys. They are fashioned from metal that's molded into a specific shape and are then cut using precision lasers to ensure a perfect fit.

2. Key Fob

In the past the loss of your car keys was not a big nuisance. You could buy keys replacements from a locksmith shop or a car dealership and it was affordable to purchase it. However as cars have evolved in terms of technology, so too have their keys, and that means replacing a lost one can be much more expensive than it used to be.

In the 1990s, key fobs became popular as a method to lock and unlock the vehicle without requiring the physical keys of a car. These tiny plastic keys have an electronic button that when it is pressed by the user sends a signal to the computer onboard to lock or unlock the vehicle. Some have a button to activate the alarm system in the vehicle or open the trunk.

An automotive locksmith can cut traditional keys without a remote at an affordable fee. This is similar to keys that were made prior to 1990. Some locksmiths will be able to replace your lost fob while they wait.

It can be more expensive to replace a fob that contains a transponder or computer chip as opposed to an ordinary one. Reprogramming and pairing them could cost up to $200 and are only available through the original car dealer.

Many companies that deal with vehicles, such as auto repair shops or dealerships may have a large number of spare fobs. Some of these are available to consumers, while others require specialized equipment or technical knowledge to program. This isn't something that the average person can do. This is why it's ideal to keep a spare car key in your purse or pocket and then add the GEICO Emergency Roadside Service to your policy to make it more convenient in the event that you need to use it.

3. Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys

Unlike traditional mechanical keys, laser-cut keys have deeper ridges and grooves. This makes them less prone to car thieves to steal.

Key blades feature two slits which allow keys to be inserted in the ignition cylinder and door lock from either side. They are the most commonly used type of car keys available these days. They are more popular than traditional keys because they offer a higher level of security and ease of use.

If you're thinking of getting a laser-cut key for your car, it's important to make sure that the shop that is cutting keys has the proper equipment. You'll get keys that don't perform as expected when you don't. You should also be aware of the quality of the blade, as low-quality ones can damage the cutting mechanism of the key or even break inside your ignition cylinder.

To cut a laser-cut keys locksmiths will require your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have this information, they will run it through a computer system to get the specifications specific to your vehicle. They will then use a CNC to cut the key according to these specifications.

These keys require special machinery to make, and they are usually only available at dealerships. However, they are less costly than traditional key fobs and have the added bonus of being hard to duplicate.

Labor costs for a typical laser-cut all in-one key can range from $150-$250. This is due to the fact that these types of keys must be programmed by the dealership. However, they are one of the most secure and reliable 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, these newer car keys contain transponder chips which must be linked with the vehicle by a dealer or an auto locksmith. These keys are typically more expensive, ranging from $50 to $100 for the basic version to $200 for models that have push-to-start features.

Fobs that contain what's known as a switchblade key which folds up when not in use. generally cost more to replace. These keys have shanks that retract into the fob, which can be released at the touch of a button when required. They are usually much more secure than traditional keys, which makes them a great deterrent to thieves and are a good alternative for those who require an extra car key for valet use. Changing these keys can run between $100 and $300 based on the car key button replacement and the kind of key.

In contrast to the crank key of the past that was difficult, heavy and dangerous to handle, these electronic keys are lightweight and more convenient. These car keys are also much 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 keys.

These wholly electronic car keys communicate electronically to open doors and begin the engine. Some keys are able to do this without having to be removed from the pocket of the driver. Making changes to these types of car keys could be costly and generally require a visit to the dealer which may or not include a towing charge.

5. Transponder Keys

Unlike mechanical keys, transponder keys are equipped with a chip inside them that transmits a radio frequency signal to the car whenever it is inserted into the ignition. The signal is then read by the computer system of the vehicle to determine whether it matches the serial number of the key. If it matches the key's serial number, the vehicle will allow keys to unlock the doors and to start the engine. This is to stop car thefts by making it harder to wire a car hot and to start the engine.

Theoretically it is possible that this technology works, but smart car thieves constantly find ways to defeat it. Additionally, the chips in these keys are not as durable as people would like to believe. They are able to be easily washed out, which can result in the key not functioning.

The cost of replacing transponder keys can be costly. The key blank can cost upwards of $50, and then there's the cost of having it programmed. This procedure requires a special machine, which is only available at car dealerships.

This is why it is advisable to find locksmiths with the appropriate equipment for programming transponder keys. It is also recommended to have all the information for your vehicle including the year and make, as well as the model. This will help ensure that the correct key blank is used, which will save you money in the long run. A locksmith can program a transponder keys 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 specific programming process that is performed only by a locksmith who is certified.