How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It is never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road quickly by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
It is a good idea to order an extra key before you lose yours. We have put together a guide on the cost to replace a car key.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, losing or losing a car key was no big deal. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. However, modern automobiles are more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.
Employing an auto locksmith is the most affordable alternative. They usually can duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. This kind of key does not have chip and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start an engine.
This is because modern automobile keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed to function correctly. This is only done by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, for instance an auto locksmith in your area or a car dealership service professional.
The cost of mechanical keys is low, but the programming chip in a modern car will usually cost you more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key in your car and store it safely.
It's crucial to know the kind of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. An older, standard car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder, and 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 next kind of car key is a transponder key that has an embedded security chip that transmits an alert to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and allow the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key, and it can only be copied using specialized tools that only a locksmith or dealer in the car industry has access to. The cost for this can be up to $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your car.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by vehicles to connect with their car. They are equipped with an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is placed in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it sends an encoded code that allows your car to begin. This feature is great as it wards off theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult because a burglar will need both the correct key and transmitter in order to turn on your car and take it away.
The cost of purchasing a new transponder keys is typically higher than a conventional key, but this is due to the fact that it must be programmed. Locksmiths are generally competent to program the transponder key, however it is always best to ask your car dealership if they can do so also. This is because they typically have the most experience with these kinds of keys and could be able to give you the most competitive price.
Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it is crucial to research the most important options prior to buying your next car. You should be able find out which kind of key is compatible with it and whether it requires an unlocking device via a remote.
Certain newer vehicles have a transponder password system. They are more complicated as they require special tools to program them. However, they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they're used. This means that even if your key has been cloned, it will not work with your vehicle.
No matter what kind of key you have, it is crucial that you do not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself. This can cause alarms to insurance companies and will cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to assist you, especially if they see signs that the car has been tampered with or opened. It can be extremely difficult to get a new key, so contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.
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 feature a groove that's cut to a particular depth along the key's face. This makes it very easy to distinguish between genuine and fake keys when you look at it from above. They are easy to spot and will not get locked out of your home if your key gets lost while you're doing errands or working.
If your key is a laser-cut one, you'll need to contact an locksmith who has equipment for these kinds of replacements. In most cases, your local hardware store isn't able to make an original laser-cut key since they don't have the machinery needed to cut and program these types of key fobs.
Locksmiths use an instrument that resembles an ordinary drill to mill the key's metal. This will reduce all the surface to the desired length. The unique key's code is then extracted from the VIN and the key is then cut to your vehicle's specifications.
Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not have any electronics or chips inside them that could be replaced, so they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a brand new key. This is why laser-cut keys are expensive, as they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.
It's recommended to keep at least one spare key in your possession in the event that you accidentally lose your car key. Then, you can call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so 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 car without a key. These keys have special computer chips that must be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming, but it's recommended to let your dealer handle it. They have the right tools and are knowledgeable about your specific car, which can ensure it's done right.
Getting your car key fob changed can cost as high as $500, depending on the type of key you drive and whether it's remote-controlled or smart. This does not include the cost of a mechanical backup key you may want in case the fob goes missing or is stolen.
It used to be that losing your car keys was a pain however, it's now a major 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 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 however the most expensive is one that comes with the transponder and mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank which folds in the fob to form a switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or tucked in a coat pocket. These keys are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealership.
If car key replacements have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be duplicated to work with another vehicle, you may want to consider ordering an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a key and lock specialist who can program many different vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob for an affordable price compared to the price a dealership would charge, costing as little as $200 or more. Be sure to purchase the fob and key that is the same model, year and make as the original to ensure it can be programmed to your vehicle.