How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road fast with Emergency Roadside Service.
Before you lose your key, it is recommended to have a spare made. To make this easier we've put together a guide to how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big issue. You could buy a spare key, and use it to turn the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more technologically advanced and it is much more expensive to replace lost keys.
Employing an auto locksmith is the cheapest option. They can usually copy a metal key for less than $50. However, this type of key doesn't come with chips and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
This is due to the fact that modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that have to be programmed to function correctly. This is only done by a professional who knows what they're doing, such as the local locksmith or an auto dealership service professional.
The cost of mechanical keys is low, but the programming chip in the latest cars will typically cost you more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it safe.
There are five different kinds of car keys, therefore it is important to identify which one you have before receiving assistance in replacing it. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder, and turned to turn on your car. Keys like these aren't as popular, but you can find them at your local home improvement store for $10.
The next type is a transponder car key. This key has embedded security microchips that sends a message to the computer in the vehicle to open the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and can only be done with special tools, which are only available to a locksmith or car dealer. It could cost you $500 or more depending on the car's make and model.
Transponder keys replacement for cars
Transponder keys are used by cars to connect with their car. They use a microchip in the key. When the key is near to your car or placed in the ignition, it transmits an electronic code which signals your car to begin. This feature is great because it stops theft. However, it makes stealing your car much more difficult since a thief requires both the right key and transmitter to turn on your car key replacement cost and drive away with it.
A transponder key costs just a bit more than a regular key, however, it's because 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 as well. This is because they usually have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys and could be able to give you the most competitive price.
A lot of automakers have their own distinct anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it is crucial to research the most important options prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to figure out which kind of key is compatible with it and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder-based password system. These are more complex as they require specialized tools to program them. However they are also more secure since they use rolling code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that if your key was duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.
Whatever type of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital to never attempt to open the door of your vehicle by yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies and could make mechanics reluctant to help you out, especially if they see signs that the vehicle has been damaged or forced to open. This will make it extremely hard to get a replacement, so be certain to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a car with a laser-cut key, you'll notice that it's much harder to lose or be stolen than a traditional metal key. These keys do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that is cut to a particular depth on the face of the key. When looking at the key from the top, it is easy to identify if it's a fake or not. They are easy to identify, so you won't get locked out if your key is lost while you're working or running errands.
If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to talk to a professional locksmith who has the necessary 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, as they lack the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.
A locksmith will use an apparatus that looks like the drill used in standard homes to cut the metal of the key. This will reduce the entire surface until it is the desired length. The unique key's code is then extracted from the VIN and the key is then cut according to your vehicle's specifications.
Laser-cut keys are different from a regular transponder key because they don't contain electronic chips or electronics that can be changed. They have to be destroyed and replaced with the new model. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are so expensive, since they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.
Keep at least one spare car key in your possession just in case. Then, you can call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can get back into your vehicle without having pay for it to be tow to the dealer.
Fobs
You may not have an old classic car key lost replacement but your vehicle probably has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. The keys contain computer chips that must be programmed to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to assist you in this process but it's generally better to have your dealer handle it. They have the right tools and are well-versed in your particular car and can ensure that it's done right.
The cost of replacing your car key fob could be as high as $500, depending on whether it's a smart key or a remote-controlled key. That doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key that you may wish to have in the event your fob is 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 modern automobiles have made keys that useful and reliable that thieves can take keys. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal them.
The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that includes a transponder and a mechanical key inside the same fob. The "smart" key features an elongated shank that is spring loaded and folds in the fob to form the switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or put in a pocket of a coat. These keys are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be cloned to work in a different vehicle, you may want to consider ordering a replacement aftermarket from a company such as Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who offers programming for many different vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at less than what a dealership will charge, costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a fob and a key that's the identical model, year, and make as the original to ensure it can be programmed to your vehicle.