How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of keys to your car is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road fast by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
It is a good plan to order a spare key before you lose yours. We have compiled a guide on how much it costs to replace a car key.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge problem. You could buy an extra key and then use it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it's much more costly to replace keys lost.
An auto locksmith can be the most affordable alternative. They are usually able to duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with chips and won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
This is because modern car keys come with transponders or chips that have to be programmed in order to work correctly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, like a local locksmith or even a car dealership service professional.
The cost of mechanical keys is affordable, however the programming chip that is used 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.
It's crucial to know the kind of car key you have before seeking help. A standard, older car key is a double-edged steel lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your car. These keys aren't as common however, you can find them at your local home improvement store for $10.
key replacement car is a transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip which sends a signal to the car's computers to open the doors and begin the engine. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and is only possible with specific tools that are available to a locksmith or dealer of cars. It could cost you $500 or more based on the car's model and make.
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 encoded code that allows your car to begin. This is a great feature as it wards off theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car because a burglar will need both the key and transmitter to turn it off and take off with it.
A transponder key costs just a bit more than a regular one, however, it's 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 car dealer if they are able to do it. This is because they usually have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys, and may be able to provide you with the most competitive price.
Many automakers have their own unique anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it's essential to research all the key options before you purchase your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which kind of key will work with it, and whether or not it requires a remote to unlock it.
Some newer vehicles come with a transponder-based password system. These are more complicated as they require a particular key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, since they utilize rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are 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 regardless of what type, it is vital to never attempt to break into your own vehicle by yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies. Many mechanics will not assist you if they observe signs that your car has been forced open or damaged. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a new key, so make sure you contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much harder to lose or steal than a metal key. The keys don't have 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. When looking at the key from the top it's easy to tell whether it's fake or not. The fact that they're easy to spot also means that you're not at risk of being locked out if you misplace your keys while at work or running errands.
If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call an locksmith who has equipment for making these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store is unlikely to be able provide you with the replacement key laser-cut because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.
Locksmiths use an apparatus that resembles an ordinary drill to cut the key's metal. This will remove the entire surface until it is the desired length. The unique code of the key is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut to your vehicle's specifications.
Laser-cut keys differ from normal transponder keys because they do not have electronics or chips which can be altered. They must be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. This is why laser-cut keys are expensive, since they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.
Keep a spare car key in your car just in case. You can then call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can be back in your vehicle without having pay for it to be towed to the dealer.
Fobs
If you do not own a classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to unlock and start your car without having a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that need to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. There are locksmiths who can assist you in this process but it's generally best to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the tools needed.
Getting your car key fob changed can cost as much as $500, based on the type of key you drive and if it's remote-controlled or smart. This doesn't include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key that you may wish to have in the event your key fob goes missing or stolen.
It used to be that losing your car key was a pain, but now it's a major issue. That's because modern cars have made the keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now steal keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in technology for car keys have made it harder for thieves.
The new keys come in a variety of sizes and shapes and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that has an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart key" features a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob, similar to a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or hidden in pockets like a coat. These are typically pricier than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the help of a dealership to replace.
If you have a spare key fob that works in your vehicle and could be cloned, consider trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a firm like Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key specialist which offers programming for a variety of automobiles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob for less than what a dealer will charge, thereby saving up to $200 or more. Make sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, model and model as your original so it can be coded to work with your vehicle.