How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of keys to your car is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads.
It is a good plan to purchase a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. To make it easier, we have created a list of the cost of replacement car keys. cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big issue. You could buy a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. However, modern cars are much more technologically advanced and it is more expensive to replace the key that was lost.
The cheapest way to do this is to employ an auto locksmith. They are usually able to duplicate a metal key for less than $50. However, this kind of key doesn't come with an electronic chip, and therefore will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.
This is because modern car keys come with transponders or chips that have to be programmed to work properly. This can only be done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, such as the local locksmith or car dealer service professional.
The cost of a mechanical key is relatively inexpensive, however the programming chip in modern cars can cost more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it in a safe place.
There are five different kinds of car keys, therefore it is important to identify the type you have before getting help with replacing it. An older, standard car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and then turned to start your vehicle. They're not as common, but you should be able find them at your local hardware store for about $10.
The next type is the transponder car key. It has embedded security microchips which sends a signal to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key, and is only possible to copy it using specialized tools that only a locksmith or car dealer has access to. It can cost as high as $500 or more depending on the car's model and make.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their car. They are equipped with an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is placed close to your car, or inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is a great feature because it deters theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar will require both the correct key and the transmitter to turn your car on and take it away.
The cost of a brand new transponder keys is typically slightly more expensive than a traditional key, but that is because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by the majority of locksmiths, however you should always inquire with your dealer if they can do it. They are the best choice since they have the most expertise in programming these keys and can give you a better rate.
Many automotive manufacturers have their own anti-theft mechanisms in place. This is why it's crucial to research the most important options before you purchase your next car. You will be able to figure out what type of key will work with it, and whether or not it requires a remote to unlock it.
Some of the latest cars are equipped with a password transponder system. These are more complex as they require specialized tools to program them. However, they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they're used. This means that if your key was cloned it would not work in your car.
No matter what kind of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital that you never try to break into your own vehicle by yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they notice signs that your car has been opened or damaged. It is very difficult to get a new key, so contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
You'll find a laser-cut key is much more difficult to take or lose than a traditional key. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edges of the blade. Instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a certain depth across the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from the top, it is easy to identify whether it's fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to identify also means that you can avoid being locked out if you misplace your keys while working or doing for errands.
If you own a laser-cut key, then you'll need to call a locksmith professional who has the right equipment to create these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store is unlikely to be able create a laser-cut replacement key, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this type of key fob.
A locksmith will employ an instrument that resembles a standard drill in order to mill the key's metal. This will cut the entire surface until it is the desired length. auto key replacement can be extracted from the VIN and the key will be cut to meet the specifications of your vehicle.
In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys do not contain any electronics or chips inside them that could be replaced, which means they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive due to the complete rebuild of the key.
Keep at least one spare car key in your possession in case of case of. That way, you'll be able to call the locksmith and have it cut and programmed for you, so that you can gain access to your vehicle without needing to pay to have it tow back by the dealership.
Fobs
You may not have an old classic car but your vehicle probably has one of the most modern high-tech fobs that can unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that need to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able perform this reprogramming, however it's best to let your dealer handle it. They have the necessary tools and are familiar with your specific car to ensure that the reprogramming is done right.
The cost of having your car's key fob replaced can cost as high as $500, based on the type of key you use and if it's a smart or remote-controlled. That doesn't include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key that you may need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.
It used to be that losing your car keys was an inconvenience However, now it's an actual issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys that easy to use and strong that thieves are able to steal keys. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal them.
The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, however the one that has both transponder and mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart key" has an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds up into the fob like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or tucked inside pockets like a coat. They're generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the assistance of a dealership to replace.
If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and can be duplicated to work with another vehicle, you may be interested in purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who can program many different vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for much less than a dealership charges, saving yourself up to $200 or more. Make sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as your original to ensure it is programmed to work with your car.