How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of keys to your car is not a pleasant experience. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road in a hurry by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
It is a good idea to buy a spare key prior to the time 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 too long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big deal. You could purchase an extra and put it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it is much more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.
Hiring an auto locksmith is the cheapest alternative. They will usually be able to copy a basic metal key and do so at a cost of $50 or less. However, this type of key doesn't have chips and won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
Modern car keys have transponders or chips which must be programmed to work properly. This is only done by a professional who understands what they're doing, like a local locksmith or even a car dealership service professional.
The cost to get an electronic key copied is relatively cheap, but the programming of the chip in modern cars will typically cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to ensure that you have a backup key and that you keep it in a safe place.
There are five distinct types of car keys, therefore it is important to identify the type you have before seeking help to replace it. An older, standard car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your vehicle. auto key replacements however you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.
The second type of car key is a transponder key that has an embedded security chip that transmits an electronic signal to the car's computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be copied with specialized tools that only a locksmith or a dealer in the car industry has access to. It could cost you $500 or more based on your car's model and make.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their vehicle. They incorporate an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is placed into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it transmits a code to signal your car to start. This is a great feature as it wards off theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car, since a burglar would require both the key and the transmitter to turn it on and drive off with it.
The cost of a new transponder key is typically higher than a traditional key, but this is due to the fact that it needs to be programmed as well. The majority of locksmiths will be capable of programming the transponder key, however it is recommended to ask your car dealership whether they are able to do this also. This is because they typically have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys, and may be able to provide you with a more competitive price.
Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it is crucial to research the most important options before you purchase your next car. You should be able to find out which kind of key is compatible with it and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.
car replacement key 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 because they employ rolling code encryption to change the password each time they're used. This means that even if your key is copied, it will not work with your vehicle.
Regardless of what type of key you have, it is crucial to never attempt to break into your own car yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will not assist you if they see signs that your car has been forced open or damaged. It is very difficult to obtain a new key, so you should contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
A key that has been laser-cut is much more difficult to lose or steal than a key made of metal. The keys don't have notches cut along the edge of the blade - instead there's a groove that cuts to a set depth across the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to tell the difference between a genuine and fake key when you look at it from the top. They are easy to recognize, so you won't get locked out if your key is lost while you're doing errands or working.
If you have an uncut laser key, you'll need to call an expert locksmith who has the right equipment to make these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store will not be able to provide you with the replacement key laser-cut since they do not have the tools to cut and program this type of key fob.
A locksmith will employ a machine that looks very like a regular drill to mill the metal of the key, which will cut off the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique key's code is then extracted from the VIN and the key is then cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.
Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not contain any electronics or chips inside of them that can be replaced, so they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are so expensive, as they require a total rebuild of the entire key.
Keep at least one spare car key in your car just in case. You can then call an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can get back into your car without having to pay for it to be tow back to the dealer.
Fobs
If you don't own a classic car, the chances are your vehicle uses one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start your vehicle without the need for a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming but it's better to let your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are knowledgeable about your particular car and can ensure that it's done correctly.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob can be as high as $500 depending on whether it's an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. That doesn't include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key you might want to have in case your key fob goes missing or stolen.
It used to be that losing your car keys was an inconvenience however, it's now a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern cars have made keys so convenient and powerful that thieves can take keys. The advances in technology for car keys have made it more difficult for thieves.
The new keys are available in a variety of dimensions and shapes, but the one that comes with 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, similar to a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or hidden in a coat pocket. These are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have a spare fob that is in your vehicle and could be duplicated, think about trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a third-party key and lock specialist that can program your automobiles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges and save yourself up to $200 or more. Just make sure the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, make and model as your previous to ensure it is programmed to work with your vehicle.