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 quickly by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
When you lose your key, it is an ideal idea to have a spare. To make this more convenient we have put together a guide to the cost of replacement car keys . cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big deal. You could simply buy a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more technologically advanced, and it's more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.
Employing an auto locksmith is the cheapest option. They will usually be capable of copying a basic metal key and do so for around $50 or less. However, this kind of key doesn't come with a chip and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
Modern car keys have transponders, also known as chips, that need to be programmed to work properly. This is only done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, for instance the local locksmith or car dealer professional in service.
The cost of mechanical keys is inexpensive, however the programming chip in the latest cars will typically cost you more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to make sure you have a backup key, and keep it somewhere safe.
It's crucial to know the type of car keys you own before seeking assistance. A standard, older car key is a double-edged metal lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your car. They're not 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 embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the computer in the vehicle to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key and can only be duplicated using specialized tools that are only available to a locksmith or dealer in the car. The cost for this could be as high as $500 or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys have an embedded microchip in the key to connect with your car. When the key is placed close to your car, or placed in the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that tells your car to begin. This is an excellent feature to have as it helps to prevent theft. However, it also makes stealing your car more difficult as a burglar will need both the correct key and transmitter to turn your car on and take it away.
The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is typically a little more expensive than a conventional key, but that is because it must be programmed as well. It is possible to program a key transponder with most locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your dealer about whether they can do it. This is because they often have the most experience with these kinds of keys and could be able to give you an affordable price.
Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms in place. This is why it is important to research the key options prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which kind of key is compatible with it and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder system. These are more complicated because they require specialized tools to program them. However they are also more secure as they use rolling code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key has been copied, it will not work with your car.
It is crucial to not attempt to break into your car by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics won't help you if they notice indications that your car has been forced open or tampered with. This will make it extremely hard to get replacement parts, so be sure to speak with an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much harder to steal or lose 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 set depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from the top, it is easy to identify whether it's fake or not. They are easy to spot and will not get locked out of your home if your key gets lost while working or running errands.
If your key is a laser-cut one, you'll need to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment for these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases the hardware store you visit will not be able to make a new laser-cut key because they don't have the tools needed to cut and program these kinds of keys.
A locksmith will employ an instrument that resembles a standard drill in order to mill the key's metal. This will remove the entire surface until it is the desired length. The unique key's code is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is cut to your vehicle's specifications.
In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys do not contain any electronic components or chips inside of them that can be replaced, which means that they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. This is why laser-cut keys are expensive, as they require a total rebuild of the entire key.
Have at least one spare car key in your possession in case of the event of. You can then call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed, so you can be back in your vehicle without having to pay for it to be tow back to the dealer.
Fobs
There's a chance that you don't own an old classic vehicle however, your car likely uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys have special electronic chips that have to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. There are locksmiths who can assist you in this process, though it's usually better to have your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and have all the necessary tools.
The cost of replacing your car key fob could be as high as $500 depending on whether it's smart key or remote-controlled key. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical 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 pain However, now it's a major issue. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so easy and reliable that thieves are now able to steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in technology for car keys have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.
key replacements for cars are available in different shapes and sizes and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that includes an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart key" comes with an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds into the fob, similar to a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or hidden in a coat pocket. These are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have a spare key fob that works in your vehicle and could be duplicated, think about trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a firm such as Amazon or a third-party key and lock specialist that can program your automobiles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at an affordable price compared to what a dealer will charge, thereby saving up to $200 or more. Be sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, make and model as your previous so that it can be programmed to work with your vehicle.