How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It's never a good feeling to lose your car keys. GEICO can help you get back on the road in a hurry with Emergency Roadside Service.
Before you lose your key It is a good idea to have a spare. We have compiled a list on how much it costs 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 simply buy a spare key, and use it to turn the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it is much more expensive to replace lost keys.
Employing an auto locksmith is the cheapest alternative. They can usually copy keys made of metal for less than $50. However, this kind of key doesn't have a chip and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
This is because modern automobile keys are equipped with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only by done by a professional who knows what they are doing, such as an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer service professional.
Read the Full Report of a mechanical key is relatively affordable, however the programming chip used in the latest cars will typically cost more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key in your car and keep it safe.
There are five distinct types of car keys available, therefore it is important to identify the type you have before receiving assistance in replacing it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged metal lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. These aren't common anymore, but you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for about $10.
The second type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with embedded security microchips that sends a message to the computer in the vehicle to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate than a basic mechanical key, and it can only be copied with special tools that only a locksmith or a dealer in the car industry has access to. It can cost as high as $500 or more, depending on your car's model and make.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize microchips inside the key that communicates with your car. When the key is placed close to your car or inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to start. This feature is great because it stops theft. However, it also makes stealing your car more difficult as a burglar will require both the correct key and transmitter to turn on your car and take it away.
The cost of a new transponder key is usually higher than a standard key, but this is due to the fact that it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by many locksmiths, but you should always ask your car dealer if they can do it. This is because they typically have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys, and may be able to give you an affordable price.
Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it is essential to research all the key options before you purchase your next vehicle. You will be able to figure out which kind of key will work with it and whether it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.
Some newer cars come equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complicated because they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, because they utilize rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your key were duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.
It is essential to not attempt to break into your car on your own, no matter the type of key. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics will not assist you if they observe signs that your car has been opened or tampered with. This will make it extremely hard to get a replacement, so be certain to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much harder to lose or steal than a traditional key. These keys do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they have a groove that's cut to a particular depth along the key's face. When looking at the key from above it's easy to identify whether it's fake or not. They are easy to identify and you won't be locked out of your home if your key gets lost while doing errands or working.
If your key is a laser-cut one then you'll have to contact an locksmith who has equipment for making these kinds of replacements. In most cases, your local hardware store won't be able make a new laser-cut key because they don't have the machinery needed to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.
A locksmith uses an instrument that appears like a regular drill to cut the key's metal, which will cut off the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The key's unique code will be retrieved from the VIN, and the key will be cut to match the specifications of your vehicle.
Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not have any chips or electronics inside of them that can be replaced, so they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys are expensive since they require a full reconstruction of the key.
Keep a spare car key in your car just in case of. You can then contact an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that you can get back into your vehicle without having to pay for it to be tow by the dealer.
Fobs
Unless you own an old classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs which allow you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a key. These keys come with computer chips that must be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. There are locksmiths who can do this reprogramming for you however it's recommended to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the tools needed.
The cost of replacing your car key fob can be as high as $500, depending on whether it's an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. This does not include the cost of a mechanical backup key you might need in the event that your fob gets lost or stolen.
It used to be that losing your car key was a pain However, now it's a real problem. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now take keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in different dimensions and shapes, but the one that comes with transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. The "smart" key has 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're generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the help of a dealership to replace.
If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and that can be copied to work with another vehicle, you might be interested in purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a company such as Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist that offers programming for many different vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for much cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge which could save you up to $200 or more. Be sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, model and model as your previous to ensure it is programmed to work with your car.