How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of your car keys is never a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.
When you lose your key, it is an ideal idea to have a spare made. To make it easier we've created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big deal. You could just buy a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it is much more costly to replace lost keys.
The cheapest way to do this is to get an auto locksmith. They'll usually be able to copy a basic metal key and do so at a cost of $50 or less. However, this kind 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 come with transponders, or chips, that must be programmed in order to function properly. This can only by done by a professional that knows what they are doing, for instance the local locksmith or car dealer professional in service.
The cost of a mechanical key is relatively low, but the programming chip used 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 safe.
There are five distinct kinds of car keys, so it's important to know the type you have before seeking help to replace it. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your vehicle. These keys aren't as common however they are available at your local home improvement store for about $10.
The next type of car key is the transponder, which has an embedded security chip that transmits an electronic signal to the car's computer system to unlock the doors and allow the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a standard mechanical key, and can only be copied using special tools that only a locksmith or dealer in the car industry has access to. The cost of this service can be as high as $500 or more, based on the model and make of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their car. They incorporate microchips in the keys. When the key is placed in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is a great feature to have as it discourages theft. But, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar requires both the right key and the transmitter to turn your car on and take it away.
The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is usually a little more expensive than a standard key, but this is due to the fact that it has to be programmed as well. Most locksmiths will be competent to program the transponder key, however it is always best to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to do this as well. They are the best choice because they have the most knowledge of programming these keys and will provide you with a better price.
Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. It is crucial to conduct your research prior to buying your next car. You should be able to find out which kind of key is compatible with it and whether it requires an unlocking device via a remote.
Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder. These are more complex as they require special tools to program them. However they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if the key is duplicated, it won't work with your vehicle.
Whatever type of key you've got regardless of the type, it is essential to never attempt to open the door of your vehicle by yourself. This could be a red flag to insurance companies and could cause many mechanics to refuse to help particularly if they notice indications that your car has been tampered with or forced to open. This can make it very difficult to obtain an exchange, so make sure to speak with an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you own a car with a laser-cut key, you'll find that it's more difficult to lose or get stolen than a traditional metal key. These keys do not have a notch along the edge. Instead, they have a groove that is cut to a certain depth along the key's face. This makes it easy to differentiate between genuine and fake keys when you look at it from the top. The fact that they're easy to recognize also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out if you happen to misplace your keys while at work or running around.
If your key is laser-cut you'll need to call an locksmith who has equipment for making these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to create the replacement key laser-cut since they do not have the tools to cut and program this type of key fob.
A locksmith will employ an instrument that appears like a regular drill to mill the metal of the key, which will remove the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code will then be extracted from the VIN, and the key will then be cut to meet the specifications of your vehicle.
Laser-cut keys differ from normal transponder keys because they do not have electronic chips or electronics which can be altered. They have to be destroyed and replaced by the new model. This is why laser-cut keys are expensive, since they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.
Keep a spare car key in your possession in case of the event of. That way, you'll be able to contact the locksmith to cut it and program it for you, so that you'll have access to your car again without having to pay to get it tow back by the dealership.
Fobs
If you do not own a classic car, chances are your vehicle uses one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that allow you to unlock and start the car without a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming but it's best to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the necessary tools.
The cost of replacing your car key fob could be as high as $500 depending on whether it is an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. This does not include the cost of a mechanical backup key you may want in case the fob goes missing or is stolen.
Losing your car key was once a source of frustration. car key replacement near me 's now a major issue. The reason is that modern cars have made the keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now take keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal them.
The new keys are available in a variety of dimensions and shapes, but the one with transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart key" features an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds up into the fob, like an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to get lost or hidden in pockets like a coat. They're generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.
If you have a spare key fob that can be used in your vehicle and could be duplicated, think about trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key company which offers programming for a variety of automobiles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for much less than what a dealer charges and save yourself as much as $200 or more. Make sure you buy a key and fob that is the identical model, year, and make as the original to ensure that it can be programmed for your vehicle.