How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It's never a good feeling to lose your car keys. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road fast by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
When you lose your key, it is recommended to have a spare made. To make it easier we've put together a guide to the cost of replacement car keys. cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge deal. You could just buy a spare key, and use it to turn the ignition. However, modern cars are much more advanced in technology and it's more costly to replace a lost key.
The cheapest way to do this is to hire an auto locksmith. They are usually able to copy a basic metal key at a cost of $50 or less. However, this type of key isn't equipped with an electronic chip, and therefore won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
Modern car keys have transponders, also known as chips, that need to be programmed properly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who understands what they're doing, like an auto locksmith in your area or a car dealership service professional.
The cost to have a mechanical key copied is fairly low however programming the chip used in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it in a safe place.
It is important to determine the type of car keys you have before seeking help. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and then turned to start your car. These aren't common anymore, but you should be able find them at your local hardware store for about $10.
The second type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip that sends a message to the car's computers to open the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a basic mechanical key, and it is only possible to copy it using specialized tools that only a locksmith or dealer in the car industry has access to. The cost for this can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their car. They are equipped with an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is near to your vehicle, or when it is inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that tells your car to begin. This feature is great because it stops theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar will need both the correct key and transmitter in order to turn your car on and take it away.
The cost of a new transponder keys is typically a little more expensive than a traditional key, but this is due to the fact that it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by the majority of locksmiths, however it is best to inquire with your dealer if they can do it. They are the best option since they have the most experience in programming these keys, and they can give you a better rate.
A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. It is crucial to conduct your research prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to figure out which type of key it is compatible with and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.
Certain newer cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complicated because they require specialized tools to program them. However, they are more secure because they employ rolling code encryption to change the password each time they're used. This means that if your key were duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.
It is important that you don't attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will refuse to assist you if they notice signs that your car has been forced open or tampered with. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a replacement key, so you should contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.
Laser-Cut Keys
You'll find a laser-cut key is much harder to lose or steal than a key made of metal. These keys have no notches cut along the edges of the blade. Instead there's a winding groove that cuts to a certain depth across the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from the top, it is easy to identify if it's a fake or not. They are easy to recognize and you won't be locked out if you have your key lost while you're doing errands or working.
If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call an locksmith who has equipment for these kinds of replacements. Most of the time your local hardware store won't be able make an original laser-cut key since they don't have the equipment needed to cut and program these types of keys.
Locksmiths use an apparatus that resembles the drill used in standard homes to cut the key's metal. This will reduce the entire surface to the desired length. The key's unique code will then be retrieved from the VIN and the key will be cut to meet the specifications of your car.
In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys don't have any chips or electronics inside them that could be replaced, which means that they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a brand new key. This is the reason why laser-cut keys can be expensive, since they require a total rebuild of the entire key.
It's an excellent idea to have at least one spare key in your possession in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. Then, you can call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can be back in your vehicle without having to pay for it to be towed by the dealer.
Fobs
You might not have an old-fashioned car however, your car likely has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. The keys contain computer chips which need to be programmed to function with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able perform this reprogramming, however it is usually better to let your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are familiar with the specific vehicle you have, which can ensure it's done right.
The cost of Replacement car Key of getting your car key battery replacement's key fob replaced can cost as high as $500, depending on the kind of key you use and if it's remote-controlled or smart. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key that you may need in the event your fob is lost or stolen.
The loss of your car key was once a hassle. Now it's a serious issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern automobiles have made keys that convenient and powerful that thieves are able to take keys. The advances in technology for car keys have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys come in various dimensions and shapes however the most expensive one is one that has the transponder and mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart key" comes with an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob, like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or tucked inside a coat pocket. These are usually 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 cloned to work in another vehicle, you may want to consider ordering an aftermarket replacement key for car from a company like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who can program various vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob for an affordable price compared to what a dealership will charge, thereby which could save you $200 or more. Be sure that the new car key replacement fob and key you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as the original so it can be coded to work with your vehicle.