How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It is never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the roads.
When you lose your key, it is recommended to have a spare made. We have compiled a guide on how much it costs to replace the car key.
Mechanical Keys
Not long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big deal. You could simply buy a spare key, and use it to turn the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace lost keys.
key replacement car can be the most affordable option. They are usually capable of copying a standard metal key and do so for around $50 or less. This kind of key doesn't have a chip, and will not be able unlock doors or start an engine.
This is due to the fact that modern car keys are equipped with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed in order to work properly. This can only be done by a professional who understands what they're doing, for instance the local locksmith or an expert from a dealership's service department.
The cost of a mechanical key is relatively inexpensive, however the programming chip in the latest cars will typically cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that you always have a backup key and that you keep it somewhere secure.
It's important to identify the type of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. An older, standard car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder, and turned to turn on your car. These aren't common anymore however, you should be able find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.
The next type of car key is the transponder key with an embedded security chip that sends an alert to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate than a standard mechanical key, and it can only be copied with specialized tools that only a locksmith or dealer in the car industry has access to. The cost for this could be up to $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Cars with transponder keys use a microchip inside of the key that communicates with your car. When the key is placed close to your vehicle, or inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that tells your car to begin. This is an excellent feature to have since it deters theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car as a thief would need both the key and transmitter to turn it on before they could take off with it.
Transponder keys cost just a bit more than a regular key however, this is because it must be programmed. Most locksmiths will be competent to program keys that have transponders, but it is recommended to inquire with your car dealer if they can do so as well. This is because they typically have the most experience with these kinds of keys, and may be able to provide you with an affordable price.
A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems. It is essential to conduct your research prior to buying your next car. You will be able to figure out which kind of key will work with it and if it requires a remote to unlock it.
Some newer vehicles come with transponder password systems. These are more complicated because they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, because they employ rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your key was cloned it would not work in your car.
Whatever type of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital that you do not attempt to gain entry into your car yourself. This can raise red flags with insurance companies and cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to assist you in the event of evidence that the vehicle has been damaged or forced to open. This will make it extremely hard to get a replacement, so be sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
A key that has been laser-cut is much harder to lose or steal than a key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edge of the blade. Instead there's a groove that cuts to a certain depth up the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from the top it's easy to identify whether it's a fake or not. replacement key for car near me that they're easy to recognize also means that you're not at risk of being locked out in the event that you misplace your keys while working or running around.
If your key is a laser-cut one then you'll have to contact locksmiths that have equipment to make these types of replacements. Your local hardware store will not be able to create the replacement key laser-cut since they do not have the tools to cut and program this kind of key fob.
A locksmith will use an instrument that resembles a standard drill in order to cut the key's metal. This will reduce the entire 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.
In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys do not contain any electronics or chips inside that can be replaced, which means they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive since they require a complete rebuild of the key.
It's always a good idea to keep at least one spare key on hand in the event that you accidentally lose your car key. Then, you can call an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can reenter your vehicle without having pay for it to be tow back to the dealer.
Fobs
If you don't own a classic car, the chances that your car is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to unlock and start the vehicle without the need for a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to work with the car you own. There are car key replacements who can perform this reprogramming on your behalf however it's better to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the tools needed.
The cost of replacing your car key fob could be as high as $500, depending on whether it is a smart key or a remote-controlled key. 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 keys was a pain However, now it's a real problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern automobiles have made keys that easy to use and strong that thieves are able to take them. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that has the transponder and mechanical key inside the same fob. This "smart key" has an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob, like the switchblade, making it less likely to be lost or tucked inside a coat pocket. These are typically pricier than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.
If you have an additional 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 a variety of vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for much less than what a dealer charges and save yourself up to $200 or more. Make sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as the original so that it can be programmed to work with your car.