How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing your car keys is never a pleasant experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road quickly with Emergency Roadside Service.
It is a good plan to order a spare key before you lose yours. We have compiled a list on how much it costs to replace the car key.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, losing or losing a car key was no big issue. You could purchase an extra key and then use it in the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and it is much more expensive to replace keys lost.
The most affordable method to accomplish this is to get an auto locksmith. They are usually able to duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. This type of key isn't equipped with chip and won't be able to unlock doors or start engines.
This is because modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that need to be programmed to work properly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, such as an auto locksmith in your area or an auto dealership service professional.
The cost to get a mechanical key copied is fairly low however, the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to ensure that you always have a backup key, and keep it somewhere safe.
There are auto key replacement cost of car keys, so it's important to know which one you have prior to seeking help to replace it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. These keys aren't as common, but you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for around $10.
The next kind of car key is the transponder that has an embedded security chip that sends an alert to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and enable the engine to start. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and is only possible with specialized tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith or car dealer. It could cost you $500 or more depending on the car's make and model.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their car. They are equipped with a microchip in the key. When the key is inserted in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it transmits a code to signal your car to start. This feature is beneficial because it deters theft. However, it makes stealing your car much more difficult since a thief requires both the right key and transmitter in order to turn on your car and drive away with it.
A transponder key costs a little bit more than a regular one, but that's only because it needs to be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be able to program the transponder key, however it is always best to ask your dealership if they can do so also. This is because they usually have the most experience with these types of keys and could be able to provide you with a more competitive price.
Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms in place. It is essential to conduct your research before purchasing your next car. You should be able find out which type of key works with it and whether it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.
Certain newer vehicles have transponder password systems. These are a bit more complex as they require a specific key tool to program them. However they are also more secure because they employ rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that even if the key is duplicated, it won't work with your vehicle.
Whatever type of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital that you do not attempt to break into your own car yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies and cause many mechanics to refuse to assist you, especially if they see signs that the vehicle has been altered or opened. This will make it extremely hard to get a replacement, so be sure to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
You'll find a laser-cut key is much more difficult to lose or steal than a traditional key. The keys don't have a notch on the edge. Instead, they have a groove that's cut to a specific depth along the key's face. When you look at the key from the top, it is easy to tell if it's a fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to spot also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out in the event that you misplace your key while you're at work or running for errands.
If your key is laser-cut you'll need to call a locksmith that has specialized equipment for making these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit 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 kind of key fob.
A locksmith uses a machine that looks very like a standard drill to mill the metal of the key. This will be able to cut the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The key's unique code can be found from the VIN, and the key will then be cut to match the specifications of your vehicle.
In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys don't have any electronics or chips inside that can be replaced, which means they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive due to the full rebuild of the key.
It's recommended to keep at least one spare key available in the event that you accidentally lose your car keys. This way you'll be able call the locksmith to cut it and program it for you so that you have access to your car again, without having to pay to have it towed back to the dealership.
Fobs
Unless you own an old classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs which allow you to open and start your car without a key. These keys contain special electronic chips that need to be programmed in order to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming, but it's best to let your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are well-versed in your particular car and can ensure that it's done correctly.
The cost of replacing your car key fob can be as high as $500 depending on whether it is smart key or remote-controlled key. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key you may need in the event the fob goes missing or is stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car keys was an inconvenience However, now it's a real problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern cars have made keys so easy to use and strong that thieves are able to take keys. The advancements in the technology of car keys have made it more difficult for thieves.
The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the one with transponder and mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart key" comes with an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob like the switchblade, making it less likely to be lost or get tucked away in a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the help of a dealer to replace.
If you have an additional fob that works with your vehicle and can be copied to work with another vehicle, you might want to consider ordering an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who can program various vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for less than what a dealer charges, saving yourself up to $200 or more. Make sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as your previous so that it can be programmed to work with your car.
