How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the roads.
It is a good idea to order an extra key before you lose yours. We have compiled a list on the cost to replace a car key.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, losing or losing keys to your car was not a big problem. You could purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it is much more costly to replace keys that have been lost.
The cheapest way to do this is to employ an auto locksmith. They are usually able to copy a basic metal key and do so for around $50 or less. This kind of key isn't equipped with a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start an engine.
This is because modern automobile keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed to function correctly. This can only be done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like the local locksmith or car dealer service professional.
The cost of a mechanical key is relatively inexpensive, however the programming chip used in modern cars can cost more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it safe.
It's important to identify the type of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. An older, standard car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be put 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 $10.
The next type of car key is the transponder that has an embedded security chip that transmits a signal to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and allow the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a standard mechanical key, and it can only be copied using special tools that only a locksmith or a dealer in the car industry has access to. find more of this service can be up to $500 or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys have a microchip inside of the key that communicates with your car. When the key is placed in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is an excellent feature to have because it helps to prevent theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car, as a thief would need both the key and transmitter to turn it off and drive off with it.
The cost of a brand new transponder key is typically slightly more expensive than a conventional key, but only because it has to be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be capable of programming keys that have transponders, but it is best to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to program it also. This is because they typically have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys, and may be able to offer you a more competitive price.
A lot of automakers have their own unique anti-theft mechanisms in place. It is important to do your research before purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to figure out which kind of key works with it and whether it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.
Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder. These are more complicated because they require a specific key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, since they use rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key has been cloned, it will not work with your vehicle.
It is essential to not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. Read the Full Report could cause alarms to insurance companies and will cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to assist you in the event of signs that the car has been tampered with or opened. This could make it difficult to obtain an exchange, so make sure to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll find that it's more difficult to lose or get stolen than a traditional key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edge of the blade. Instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a certain depth across the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to distinguish between authentic and fake keys when you look at it from the top. They are easy to identify and you won't be 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 call an locksmith who has equipment for these kinds of replacements. In most cases the hardware store you visit isn't able to make a new laser-cut key because they don't have the machinery needed to cut and program these kinds of keys.
A locksmith will use an instrument that resembles the drill used in standard homes to cut the metal of the key. This will reduce the entire surface until it is the desired length. The key's unique code will be extracted from the VIN and the key will be cut to meet your vehicle's specifications.
Laser-cut keys differ from regular transponder key because they do not have electronic chips or electronics that can be changed. They have to be destroyed and replaced with the new model. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive since they require a complete rebuild of the key.
Keep a spare car key in your possession in case of case of. Then, you can call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed, so you can be back in your vehicle without having pay for it to be tow back to the dealer.
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 open and start the car without having a key. These keys have special electronic chips that have to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Fortunately, some locksmiths can do this reprogramming for you, though it's usually recommended to let your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the tools needed.
The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced could cost as much as $500, based on the type of key you use and whether it's a smart or remote-controlled. Read the Full Report doesn't include the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you may wish to have in the event your fob gets lost or stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car key was a pain, but now it's an actual issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern cars have made keys so convenient and powerful that thieves are able to steal them. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal them.
These new keys come in a variety of shapes and sizes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that has a transponder and a mechanical key in the same fob. The "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank that folds in the fob to form a switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or put in a coat pocket. These are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have a spare key fob that works in your vehicle and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business such as Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key specialist which offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob for a much lower cost than what a dealer will charge, thereby saving up to $200 or more. Be sure to purchase the fob and key that is the same year, model and make as the original to ensure it can be programmed to your vehicle.