How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It's never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the roads.
It is a good plan to buy an extra key before you lose yours. To make it easier, we have created a guide on the cost of replacement car keys. cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge issue. automotive key replacement could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it is much more costly to replace lost keys.
Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable alternative. They usually can duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. However, this type of key doesn't come with a chip and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
This is because modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that have to be programmed to function properly. This is only done by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, like the local locksmith or an expert from a dealership's service department.
The cost of mechanical keys is low, but the programming chip used in the latest cars will typically cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that you have a backup key, and that you keep it in a safe place.
It's important to identify the type of car keys you have before contacting a locksmith. A standard, older car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your car. Keys like these aren't as popular however, you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for around $10.
The second type is the transponder car key. This key has an embedded security microchip that sends a message to the car's computers to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key, and it is only possible to copy it using special tools that only a locksmith or dealer in the car industry has access to. The cost for this could be up to $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Cars with transponder keys use an embedded microchip in the key to communicate with your car. When the key is inserted in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is a wonderful feature to have as it deters theft. But, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult since a thief will need both the correct key and transmitter in order to start your car and then drive off with it.
A transponder key is just a bit more than a regular key, however, it's because it needs to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be able to program a transponder key, but it is recommended to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to do this also. They are the best choice since they have the most experience in programming these keys and can offer you a better price.
Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems. It is important to do your research before purchasing your next vehicle. You will be able to figure out which kind of key is compatible with it and whether it requires a remote to unlock it.
Some newer vehicles come with a transponder-based password system. These are more complex as they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, as they use rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your key was copied, it will not work in your car.
Regardless of what type of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital that you never try to gain entry into your vehicle yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics won't help you if they see indications that your car has been opened or altered. It will be very difficult to get a new key, so make sure you contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.
Laser-Cut Keys
You'll find a laser-cut key is much harder to lose or steal than a metal key. These keys have no notches cut along the edge of the blade - instead there's a winding groove which cuts to a specific depth up the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to tell the difference between a genuine and fake key when you look at it from the top. The fact that they're so easy to spot also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out in the event that you lose your key while you're working or running around.
If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact an locksmith who has equipment for these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases, your local hardware store will not be able to make a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the equipment required to cut and program these kinds of keys.
Locksmiths use an instrument that resembles a standard drill in order to mill the metal of the key. This will remove the entire surface to the desired length. The key's unique code will then be retrieved from the VIN and the key will then be cut to meet your vehicle's specifications.
In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys don't have any electronic components or chips inside that can be replaced, so they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive because they require a full reconstruction of the key.
It's a good idea to keep at least one spare key available in case you happen to lose your car key. This way you'll be able call the locksmith and cut it and program it for you, so that you can gain access to your vehicle again, without having to pay to have it tow back by the dealership.
Fobs
You might not have an old-fashioned car, but your car probably uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to open and start it without a traditional key. These keys come with electronic chips that have to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming, but it is usually better to let your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are knowledgeable about your specific car to ensure that the reprogramming is done right.
The cost of replacing your car key fob can be up to $500 based on whether it is a smart key or a remote-controlled key. That's not even including the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key you might wish to have in the event your key fob goes missing or stolen.
Losing your car key was once a hassle. It's now a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern automobiles have made keys that convenient and powerful that thieves are able to steal keys. The advances in car key technologies have made it more difficult for thieves.
The new keys are available in a variety of dimensions and shapes, but the one that has both a transponder as well as mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart key" comes with an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob, like an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to be lost or tucked inside a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the help of a dealership to replace.
If you have a spare key fob that is in your car and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key specialist that can program your vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob for less than what a dealership would charge, which could save you $200 or more. Make sure you buy a fob and a key that is the same model, year and make as your original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.