How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It is 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 a spare key before you lose yours. To make this more convenient we've created a guide on the cost of replacement car keys. cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big issue. You could purchase an extra and put it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and it is much more costly to replace lost keys.
Employing an auto locksmith is the cheapest alternative. They'll usually be able to copy a basic metal key for about $50 or less. However, this type of key isn't equipped with a chip and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
This is because modern automobile keys come with transponders or chips that have to be programmed to function correctly. This is only done by a professional who knows what they are doing, for instance the local locksmith or car dealer professional who is a service expert.
The cost of mechanical keys is low, but the programming chip that is used in modern cars can cost more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key in your car and keep it safe.
It's crucial to know the kind of car key you have before seeking help. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged metal lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. These aren't common anymore, but you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.
The next type is the transponder car key. It has an embedded security microchip which sends a signal to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and begin the engine. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and is only possible with special tools that are accessible to a locksmith or dealer of cars. It can cost as high as $500 or more depending on the car's model and make.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by vehicles to connect with their car. They are equipped with a microchip in the key. When the key is near to your vehicle, or inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that tells your car to start. This feature is beneficial as it wards off theft. However, it makes stealing your car much more difficult because a burglar will need both the correct key and the transmitter in order to turn your car on and drive away with it.
A transponder key costs slightly more than a regular key, however, this is because it needs to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be able to program the transponder key, however it is recommended to ask your dealership whether they are able to do this also. This is because they typically have the most experience with these types of keys, and may be able to give you an affordable price.
A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems in place. It is important to do your research before purchasing your next vehicle. 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 of the latest cars are equipped with a password transponder. These are more complex as they require specialized tools to program them. However they are also more secure since they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your key were duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.
Whatever type of key you have, it is crucial to never attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will not assist you if they notice signs that your car was opened or damaged. It will be very difficult to obtain a new key, so contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a vehicle equipped with a laser cut key, you'll see that it's more difficult to lose or be stolen than a traditional metal key. replacement for key fob don't have notches cut along the edges 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 very easy to differentiate between authentic and fake keys when looking at it from above. They are easy to identify, so you won't get locked out if you have your key lost while you're doing errands or working.
If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact an locksmith who has equipment for these kinds of replacements. Most of the time your local hardware store will not be able to make you a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the equipment required to cut and program these kinds of keys.
A locksmith will use an instrument that appears similar to a standard drill to cut the metal of the key, which will be able to cut the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The key's unique code will then be found from the VIN and the key will then be cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.
Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys don't have any electronics or chips inside them that could be replaced, which means that they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys are expensive due to the full reconstruction of the key.
It's an excellent idea to have at least one spare key available in case you happen to lose your car key. That way you'll be able call the locksmith to have it cut and programmed for you, so that you gain access to your vehicle again, without needing to pay to have it towed back at the dealership.
Fobs
If you do not own a classic car, the chances are your vehicle uses one of the latest high-tech fobs which allow you to unlock and start the vehicle without the need for a key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that have to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Fortunately, some locksmiths can perform this reprogramming on your behalf but it's generally recommended to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and have all the tools needed.
The cost of replacing your car key fob could be up to $500 based on whether it is smart key or remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of an electronic backup key that you may want in case your fob gets lost or stolen.
Losing your car key was once a source of frustration. Now it's a serious problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern cars have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves can take them. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal them.
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" comes with a spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob, like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or get tucked away in pockets like a coat. These keys are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and that can be copied to work in a different vehicle, you might think about purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who can program a variety of vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge which could save you up to $200 or more. Be sure to purchase the fob and key that has the identical model, year, and make as the original to ensure that it is compatible with your vehicle.