How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road fast with Emergency Roadside Service.
If you lose your keys, it is an ideal idea to have a spare made. We have put together a guide on the price to replace keys for cars.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big deal. You could buy an extra key and then use it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it's much more costly to replace keys that have been lost.
Employing an auto locksmith is the most affordable alternative. They are usually capable of copying a standard metal key for about $50 or less. This kind of key does not have chip and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start an engine.
Modern car keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed to work properly. This is only done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like the local locksmith or car dealer professional who is a service expert.
The cost of a mechanical key is relatively low, but the programming chip used in a modern car will usually cost you more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to ensure that you have a backup key, and that you keep it in a safe place.
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 start your car. Keys like these aren't as popular, but you can find them at your local home improvement store for around $10.
The next type is a transponder car key. This key has an embedded security microchip which sends a signal to the computer in the vehicle to open the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be duplicated using specialized tools that are only available to a locksmith or dealer of cars. The cost for this could be up to $500 or more, based on the make and model of your car.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize a microchip inside of the key that communicates with your car. When the key is close to your vehicle or inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is a great feature as it wards off theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car, since a burglar would require both the key and the transmitter to turn it on before they could take off with it.
The cost of a brand 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 competent to program the transponder key, however it is best to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to do this also. They are the best choice as they have the best expertise in programming these keys and will offer you a better price.
Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems. replacement key for a car is essential to conduct your research prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able to find out which kind of key works with it and if it requires a remote to unlock it.
Some newer cars come equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complex as they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, since they employ 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.
It is essential to not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the type of key. This can cause alarms to insurance companies and could make mechanics reluctant to help in the event of indications that your car has been tampered with or forced to open. It will be very difficult to obtain a new key, so make sure you contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you own a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll find that it's much harder to lose or steal than a traditional key made of metal. The keys don't have a notch on the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that is cut to a specific depth along the key's face. This makes it very easy to tell the difference between authentic and fake keys when looking at it from the top. The fact that they're easy to recognize also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out in the event that you misplace your keys while working or running around.
If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact locksmiths that have equipment for these kinds of replacements. In most cases the hardware store you visit isn't able to make you a new laser-cut key because they don't have the equipment required to cut and program these kinds of keys.
A locksmith will employ an instrument that resembles a standard drill in order to mill the metal of the key. This will reduce all the surface to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut to your vehicle's specifications.
Laser-cut keys are not like regular transponder key because they do not contain any electronics or chips that can be replaced. They have to be destroyed and replaced with a new one. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are so expensive, since they require a total rebuild of the entire key.
Keep a spare car key in your possession just in the event of. So, you'll be able to call the locksmith and cut and program the key for you, so that you'll have access to your car without having to pay to get it tow back at the dealership.
Fobs
You may not own an old classic vehicle but your vehicle probably has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys contain special electronic chips that need to be programmed to function with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming on your behalf but it's generally best to have your dealer handle it. They have the necessary tools and are familiar with your specific car to ensure that the reprogramming is done right.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob can be up to $500 based on whether it's an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key that you might wish to have in the event your fob gets lost or stolen.
It used to be that losing your car key was a hassle, but now it's an actual issue. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so easy and reliable that thieves are now able to steal keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys come in a variety of sizes and shapes and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that includes a transponder and a mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart key" features an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds up into the fob like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or get tucked away in pockets like a coat. They are generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be copied to work with another vehicle, you might think about purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a key and lock specialist that offers programming for many different vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for much less than a dealership charges, saving yourself up to $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a fob and a key that's the same model, year and model as your original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.