How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It's never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads.
It is a good plan to order a spare key before you lose yours. We have compiled a list on the price to replace keys for cars.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge problem. You could purchase an extra and put it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it's more expensive to replace keys lost.
The cheapest method of doing this is to get an auto locksmith. They will usually be able to copy a basic metal key and do so for about $50 or less. However, this kind 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 can only be accomplished by a professional who understands what they're doing, such as an auto locksmith in your area or an auto dealership service professional.
The cost of mechanical keys is low, but the programming chip that is used in a modern car will usually cost you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is by making sure you have a backup key and keep it somewhere safe.
There are five types of car keys, so it's crucial to know which one you have before receiving assistance in replacing it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. They're not as common, but you should be able find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.
The second type is the transponder car key. It has embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the computer in the vehicle to unlock the doors and start the engine. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be done with specific tools that are only accessible to a locksmith dealer in the car. This can cost up to $500 or more based on the car's make and model.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by automobiles to connect with their car. They are equipped with an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is inserted in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it sends a code to signal your car to start. This is a wonderful feature to have as it discourages 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 drive off with it.
The cost of purchasing a new transponder keys is typically higher than a conventional key, but that is because it has to be programmed as well. It is possible to program a key transponder by the majority of locksmiths, however you should always inquire with your dealer about whether they are able to do it. They are the best option since they have the most knowledge of programming these keys and will give you a better rate.
A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it's important to research the key options prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able find out which kind of key works with it, and whether or not it requires an unlocking device via a remote.
Some of the latest cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complicated because they require a special key tool to program them. However, they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your keys were duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.
No matter what kind of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital that you do not attempt to break into your own vehicle yourself. automotive key replacement can raise red flags with insurance companies and will cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to assist you particularly if they notice signs that the car has been tampered with or forced to open. This can make it very hard to get an exchange, so make certain to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll see that it's more difficult to lose or steal than a traditional metal key. These keys have no notches cut along the edges of the blade - instead, there's a winding groove which cuts to a specific depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from above, it is easy to identify if it's a fake or not. They are easy to spot, so you won't get locked out if you have your key lost while 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 right equipment to make these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit is unlikely to be able create a laser-cut replacement key, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.
A locksmith will employ an instrument that appears like a regular drill to cut the metal of the key, which will remove the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The key's unique code can be retrieved from the VIN, and the key will then be cut according to the specifications of your car.
In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys don't have 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 very expensive due to the full rebuild of the key.
Keep a spare car key in your car just in case. That way you'll be able contact the locksmith to cut it and program it for you, so that you can gain access to your vehicle again without needing to pay to have it towed 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 open and start it without a traditional key. These keys come with computer chips that need to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming on your behalf, though it's usually best to have your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and have all the necessary tools.
The cost of having your car's key fob changed can cost as much as $500, based on the kind of key you use and whether it's remote-controlled or smart. This doesn't include cost of an electronic backup key that you may want in case your fob gets lost or stolen.
The loss of your car key was once a source of frustration. It's now a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys that convenient and powerful that thieves can steal keys. The advancements in technology for car keys have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.
These new keys come in various dimensions 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 a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob like the switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or tucked into a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the help of a dealership to replace.
If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be duplicated to work in another vehicle, you may want to consider ordering a replacement aftermarket from a business like Amazon or a key and lock specialist who offers programming for various vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for much cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge which could save you around $200 or more. Be sure to purchase a key and fob that has the same model, year and model as your original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.