How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of keys to your car is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road in a hurry by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
If you lose your keys, it is an ideal idea to have a spare. To make this more convenient, we have created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge deal. You could buy an extra and put it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and it's much more expensive to replace keys lost.
An auto locksmith can be the most affordable option. They are usually able to duplicate a metal key for less than $50. This type of key does not have chip and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start an engine.
Modern car keys include transponders, also known as chips, that must be programmed properly. This is only done by a professional who knows what they are doing, such as an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional in service.
The cost to have a mechanical key copied is relatively low however, the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is by making sure you always have a backup key and keep it somewhere secure.
There are five types of car keys available, so it's crucial to know which one you have before seeking help to replace it. A classic, old-fashioned car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and then turned to start your car. These keys aren't as common, but you should be able find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.
The next type is a transponder car key. It has an embedded security microchip that transmits a message to the car's computers to open the doors and begin the engine. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be done with specific tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith car dealer. The cost of this service can 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 connect with your car. When the key is close to your vehicle or inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code which signals your car to start. This is an excellent feature to have since it helps to prevent theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car, as a thief would need both the key and transmitter to turn it on and drive off with it.
A transponder key is just a bit more than a regular key but that's only because it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by the majority of locksmiths, however you should always ask your dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best option because they have the most experience in programming these keys and will offer you a better price.
Many automakers have their own distinct anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it's essential to research all the key options prior to buying your next car. You should be able to figure out which type of key works with it and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Some newer cars come equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complicated because they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, since they use rolling-code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that if your keys were copied, it will not work in your car.
Whatever type of key you have, it is crucial that you never try to open the door of your vehicle by yourself. This can cause alarms to insurance companies and will cause many mechanics to refuse to assist you in the event of evidence that the car has been tampered with or forced open. This could make it hard to get replacement parts, so be sure to speak with an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much more difficult to take or lose than a key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they have a groove cut to a particular depth along the key's face. When looking at the key from above it's easy to determine if it's a fake or not. how.much is a replacement car key that they're easy to identify also means that you're not at risk of being locked out in the event that you happen to misplace your key while you're working or doing around.
If you have a laser-cut key, then you will need to contact a locksmith professional who has the necessary equipment to make these types of replacements. The hardware store you visit is unlikely to be able create an alternative key that is laser-cut, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this kind of key fob.
A locksmith will use an apparatus that resembles the drill used in standard homes to mill the key's metal. This will reduce the entire surface until it is the desired length. The unique code of the key is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut to your vehicle's specifications.
Laser-cut keys are not like regular transponder key because they do not contain any electronics or chips that can be changed. They have to be destroyed and replaced with an entirely new model. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are so expensive, since they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.
Keep at least one spare car key in your car just in case. Then, you can call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so you can get back into your vehicle without having pay for it to be tow back to the dealer.
Fobs
Unless you own an old classic car, chances that your car is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to unlock and start the car without a key. These keys have special computer chips that need to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming, but it is generally recommended to let your dealer handle it. They have the right tools and are familiar with the specific vehicle you have, which can ensure it's done right.
The cost of having your car's key fob replaced could cost up to $500, depending on the kind of key you use and whether it's a smart or remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that your fob gets lost or stolen.
It used to be that losing your car keys was an inconvenience however, it's now an actual issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves are able to steal them. The advancements in car key technologies have made it harder for thieves.
The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that has an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key inside the same fob. how.much is a replacement car key " comes with an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds up into the fob like the switchblade, making it less likely to be lost or hidden in a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealer.
If you have an additional fob that works with your vehicle and that can be copied to work in another vehicle, you might think about purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who offers programming for various vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge, saving yourself around $200 or more. Be sure to purchase a fob and a key that's the identical model, year, and make as the original to ensure that it can be programmed for your vehicle.