How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the road.
It is a good idea to buy a spare key before you lose yours. To make it easier, we have created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big issue. You could simply buy a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more advanced in technology, and it's much more costly to replace keys lost.
The cheapest method of doing this is to employ an auto locksmith. They'll usually be capable of copying a standard metal key and do so for around $50 or less. This type of key isn't equipped with chip and won't be able to unlock doors or start engines.
This is due to the fact that modern car keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only by done by a professional that knows what they are doing, like a local locksmith or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.
The cost of mechanical keys is inexpensive, however the programming chip used in modern cars can cost you more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key in your car and store it safely.
It's important to identify the kind of car key you own before seeking assistance. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. These keys aren't as common however they are available at your local home improvement store for about $10.
The next type is the transponder car key. This key has an embedded security microchip which sends a signal to the vehicle's computers 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 duplicated using specific tools that are only accessible to a locksmith dealer of cars. It can cost as high as $500 or more, depending on the model and make.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys have microchips inside the key to connect with your car. When the key is put in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it sends a code to signal your car to begin. replacement key fobs for cars is beneficial because it deters theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult because a burglar will require both the correct key and the transmitter to start your car and then drive off with it.
The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is typically slightly more expensive than a standard key, but that is because it needs to be programmed as well. Locksmiths are generally capable of programming the transponder key, however it is recommended to ask your dealership if they can do so also. They are the best option since they have the most knowledge of programming these keys and will offer you a better price.
Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. It is important to do your research prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able find out which type of key will work with it, and whether or not it requires a remote to unlock it.
Some of the latest cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are a bit more complicated as they require a specific key tool to program them. However, they are more secure because they employ rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key has been duplicated, it won't work with your car.
Regardless of what type of key you have regardless of the type, it is essential that you do not attempt to break into your own car yourself. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics won't help you if they observe indications that your car has been opened or damaged. This can make it very hard to get a replacement, so be sure to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
A key that has been laser-cut is much more difficult to steal or lose than a metal key. These keys do not have a notch along the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that is cut to a specific depth along the face of the key. 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 not at risk of being locked out if you lose your key while you're at work or running errands.
If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call a locksmith that has specialized equipment for these kinds of replacements. Most of the time, your local hardware store isn't able to create an original laser-cut key since they don't have the machinery needed to cut and program these kinds of keys.
A locksmith will use a machine that looks very like a regular drill to cut the metal of the key, which will cut off the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The unique code of the key is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut to the specifications of your vehicle.
Laser-cut keys differ from normal transponder keys because they do not have electronics or chips that can be replaced. They must be destroyed and replaced by the new model. This is why laser-cut keys are so expensive, since they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.
Keep a spare car key in your car just in case of. That way, you'll be able to call the locksmith to cut it and program it for you so that you'll have access to your car again, without having to pay to get it towed back to the dealership.
Fobs
There's a chance that you don't own an old classic vehicle however, your car likely utilizes the latest high-tech fobs to open and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Fortunately, some locksmiths can do this reprogramming for you however it's better to have your dealer handle it. They have the right tools and are knowledgeable about your specific car, which can ensure it's done correctly.
Getting your car key fob replaced could cost as high as $500, based on the type of key you use and if it's remote-controlled or smart. This doesn't include cost of an electronic backup key that you may need in the event your fob is lost or stolen.
It used to be that losing your car key was a hassle However, now it's a major issue. This is because modern vehicles have made keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in car key technologies have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys come in various dimensions and shapes however the most expensive is one that has an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart" key comes with an elongated shank that is spring loaded and folds in the fob to form an e-switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or hidden into a coat pocket. These keys are usually more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have a spare key fob that works in your vehicle and could be copied, you might want to try to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a firm like Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key specialist which offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob at a much lower cost than the price a dealership will charge, thereby saving up to $200 or more. Just make sure the new key and fob 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.