How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It's never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road fast with Emergency Roadside Service.
It is a good idea to buy a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. To make this more convenient we have created a list of the cost of replacement key fobs for cars car keys. cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge issue. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. However, modern automobiles are much more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.
The cheapest replacement car keys method of doing this is to get an auto locksmith. They usually can duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. However, this type of key isn't equipped with a chip and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
This is because modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed in order to function properly. This is only done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, such as a local locksmith or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.
The cost of mechanical keys is low, but the programming chip in modern cars can cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to ensure that you always have a backup key, and that you keep it somewhere safe.
There are five kinds of car keys, therefore it is important to identify the type you have before getting help with replacing it. A classic, old-fashioned car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your car. These keys aren't as common, but you can find them at your local home improvement store for around $10.
The next kind of car key is the transponder key, which has an embedded security chip that sends a signal to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and enable the engine to start. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate than a basic mechanical key, and can only be copied using special tools that only a locksmith or dealer can access. This can cost up to $500 or more based on the car's make and model.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their car. They are equipped with microchips in the keys. When the key is inserted in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is a great feature to have because it discourages theft. But, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar requires both the right key and the transmitter in order to start your car and take it away.
A transponder key costs a little bit more than a regular one, however, this is because it needs to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be competent to program keys that have transponders, but it is always best to ask your car dealership whether they are able to program it also. They are the best choice because they have the most expertise in programming these keys and will offer you a better price.
Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it's essential to research all the key options prior to buying your next car. You should be able find out which kind of key will work with it and whether it requires an unlocking device via a remote.
Some newer vehicles come with a transponder-based password system. These are more complicated because they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, since they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key is copied, it will not work with your car.
No matter what kind of key you've got regardless of the type, it is essential that you never try to gain entry into your car yourself. This can be a red flag to insurance companies and will cause many mechanics to refuse to assist you, especially if they see indications that your car has been tampered with or forced open. This could make it difficult to obtain a replacement, so be sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a car with a laser-cut key, you'll see that it's more difficult to lose or steal than a traditional metal key. The keys don't have a notch on the edge. Instead, they have a groove that is cut to a certain depth in the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to differentiate between authentic and fake keys when you look at it from above. They are easy to recognize and will not get locked out if your key is lost while doing errands or working.
If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to call a locksmith professional who has the right equipment to make these types of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to make you an alternative key that is laser-cut, as they lack the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.
A locksmith will employ an apparatus that resembles the drill used in standard homes to mill the metal of the key. This will reduce all the surface to the desired length. The key's unique code can be found from the VIN and the key will be cut according to your vehicle's specifications.
Laser-cut keys differ from traditional transponder keys since they don't contain electronics or chips that can be changed. They must be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive because they require a complete rebuild of the key.
It's always an excellent idea to have at least one spare key on hand in case you do accidentally lose your car key. That way you'll be able call the locksmith car key replacement cost to have it cut and programmed for you so that you gain access to your vehicle again without having to pay to get it tow-back to the dealership.
Fobs
You might not have an old classic car, but your car probably uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys have special electronic chips that have to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Certain locksmiths can perform this reprogramming, however it is usually best to have your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are well-versed in your specific car and can ensure that it's done right.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob could be as high as $500 depending on whether it's a smart key or a remote-controlled key. That doesn't include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key that you may want to have in case your fob gets lost or stolen.
Losing your car key was once a hassle. Now it's a serious problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern cars have made keys so convenient and powerful that thieves can steal them. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, but the one that has both a transponder as well as a mechanical key is most expensive. The "smart" key comes with a spring-loaded shank that can fold into the fob in the same way as a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or hidden in a pocket of a coat. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealer.
If you have a spare fob that works in your car and can be cloned, consider trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket Replacement Key Fob For Car from a firm like Amazon or a third-party key and lock specialist that can program your automobiles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob for an affordable price compared to the price a dealership will charge, thereby costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a fob and a key that has the same year, model and model as your original to ensure that it can be programmed for your vehicle.