How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing keys to your car is not a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads.
It is a good plan to buy an extra key before you lose yours. To make it easier, we have created a list of the cost of replacement car keys. cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, losing or losing keys to your car was not a big deal. You could purchase an extra and put it in the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it is much more costly to replace keys lost.
The most affordable method to accomplish this is to hire an auto locksmith. They will usually be capable of copying a standard metal key and do so for about $50 or less. This kind of key isn't equipped with a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start engines.
Modern car keys have transponders or chips which must be programmed correctly. This is only done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, for instance an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional in service.
The cost of mechanical keys is low, but the programming chip used in the latest cars will typically cost more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it in a safe place.
It is important to determine the type of car keys you have before seeking help. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and then turned to turn on your car. These keys aren't as common however they are available at your local home improvement store for $10.
The second type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with embedded security microchips which sends a signal to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a basic mechanical key, and it can only be copied with specialized tools that only a locksmith or car dealer has access to. It could cost you $500 or more based on the make and model.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their vehicle. They incorporate an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is close to your car, or inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is a wonderful feature to have since it discourages theft. However, it makes stealing your car much more difficult since a thief will require both the correct key and the transmitter in order to turn your car on and drive away with it.
The cost of a new transponder key is usually higher than a standard key, but that is because it has to be programmed as well. The majority of locksmiths will be capable of programming the transponder key, however it is always best to ask your car dealership whether they are able to program it also. This is because they typically have the most experience with these types of keys and could be able to give you the most competitive price.
Many automakers have their own unique anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it is essential to research all the key options prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which type of key it is compatible with and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.
Some of the latest cars are equipped with a password transponder system. These are more complex as they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, as they use rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your key was duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.
No matter what kind of key you have, it is crucial that you never try to gain entry into your car yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they notice signs that your vehicle was opened or damaged. It will be very difficult to obtain a new key, so make sure you contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a vehicle with a laser-cut key, you'll find that it's a lot harder to lose or steal than a traditional metal key. These keys have no notches cut along the edge of the blade. Instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a set depth across the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from the top it's easy to identify if it's a fake or not. They are easy to spot and will not get locked out if you have your key lost while you're doing errands or working.
If your key is laser-cut you'll need to call a locksmith that has specialized equipment for making these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store is unlikely to be able create a laser-cut replacement key, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.
A locksmith will employ an instrument that resembles a standard drill in order to cut the metal of the key. This will remove all the surface to the desired length. The unique key's code is then extracted from the VIN and the key is then cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.
Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not have any chips or electronics inside of them that can be replaced, which means that they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a new key. This is why laser-cut keys can be expensive, since they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.
It's recommended to keep at least one spare key in your possession in case you happen to lose your car keys. You can then contact 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, chances that your car is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that allow you to unlock and start the car without having a key. These keys come with computer chips that need to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming on your behalf, though it's usually better to have your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the necessary tools.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob can be as high as $500 depending on whether it is an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. That's not even including the cost of a new mechanical backup key you might need in the event that your fob gets lost or stolen.
Losing your car key was once a hassle. It's now a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys that convenient and powerful that thieves are able to take keys. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal them.
The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, however the one with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is most expensive. The "smart" key comes with a spring-loaded shank that folds in the fob to form the switchblade. vehicle key replacement is less likely to be lost or put into a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the help of a dealership to replace.
If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be copied to work in a different vehicle, you may think about purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who can program a variety of vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges which could save you around $200 or more. Make sure you buy a fob and a key that's the same year, model and make as your original to ensure that it is compatible with your vehicle.