How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It's never pleasant to lose your car keys. 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 easier we've put together a guide to the cost of replacement car keys. cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge issue. You could buy an extra key and then use it in the ignition. However, modern cars are much more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace keys that have been lost.
Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They will usually be capable of copying a standard metal key for around $50 or less. However, this kind of key doesn't have a chip and won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
Modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, that need to be programmed in order to function properly. This is only done by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, such as an auto locksmith in your area or a car dealership service professional.
The cost of mechanical keys is affordable, however the programming chip used in a modern car will usually cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that you have a backup key, and that you keep it somewhere safe.
There are five types of car keys available, so it's important to know which one you have prior to getting help with replacing it. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your vehicle. These aren't common anymore, but you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for about $10.
The next type of car key is the transponder key with an embedded security chip that sends a signal to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and is only possible with special tools that are only accessible to a locksmith car dealer. It can cost as high as $500 or more depending on the car's model and make.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize an embedded microchip in the key to connect with your car. When the key is placed close to your vehicle, or inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code which signals your car to begin. This feature is beneficial as it wards off theft. However, it makes stealing your car more difficult since a thief will need both the correct key and transmitter in order to start your car and take it away.
The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is typically slightly more expensive than a standard key, but only because it must be programmed as well. Locksmiths are generally capable of programming keys that have transponders, but it is recommended to ask your car dealership if they can do so also. They are the best option as they have the best knowledge of programming these keys, and they can provide you with a better price.
A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. It is important to do your research prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able find out what type of key is compatible with it and whether it requires an unlocking device via a remote.
Some newer vehicles come with a transponder-based password system. These are more complicated because they require specialized tools 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 car.
Regardless of what type of key you've got, it is crucial that you never try to break into your own car yourself. This could raise red flags with insurance companies and could make mechanics reluctant to help in the event of signs that the vehicle has been altered or forced to open. This can make it very difficult to obtain replacement parts, so be sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a car that has a laser cut key, you'll find that it's a lot harder to lose or steal than a traditional metal key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edge of the blade. Instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a set depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from the top it's 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 lose your key while you're working or doing for errands.
If you own an uncut laser key, you'll need to talk to a locksmith professional who has the right equipment to create these kinds 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 employ an instrument that resembles an ordinary drill to mill the key's metal. This will remove the entire surface to the desired length. The key's unique code will then be extracted from the VIN and the key will be cut to meet your vehicle's specifications.
Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not have any chips or electronics inside that can be replaced, which means that they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys are expensive due to the full reconstruction of the key.
Keep at least one spare car key in your possession in case of the event of. Then, you can call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that you can reenter your vehicle without having to pay for it to be tow to the dealer.
Fobs
If you don't own a classic car, chances are your vehicle uses one of the latest high-tech fobs which allow you to open and start the vehicle without the need for a key. These keys come with computer chips that need to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able to assist you in this process, though it's usually best to have your dealer handle it. They have the necessary tools and are well-versed in the specific vehicle you have and can ensure that it's done correctly.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob can be up to $500 based on whether it's a smart key or a remote-controlled key. That doesn't include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key that you might want to have in case your fob gets lost or stolen.
The loss of your car key was once a hassle. Now it's a serious issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys that useful and reliable that thieves can steal them. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, but the most expensive is one that comes with an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key inside the same fob. This "smart" key features an elongated shank that is spring loaded and folds in the fob to form a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or put into a coat pocket. These keys are usually more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have an additional fob that works with your vehicle and can be copied to work with another vehicle, you might think about purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or a key and lock specialist who can program a variety of vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for less than what a dealer charges and save yourself up to $200 or more. Make sure replacement car key cost buy the fob and key that has the identical model, year, and make as the original to ensure it can be programmed to your vehicle.