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 quickly with Emergency Roadside Service.
It is a good idea to buy an extra key before you lose yours. We have compiled a list on how much it costs to replace keys for cars.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, losing or losing a car key was no big issue. You could just buy a spare key, and use it to turn on the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it's much more costly to replace keys lost.
The most affordable method to accomplish this is to get an auto locksmith. key replacement can usually copy keys made of metal for less than $50. This kind of key isn't equipped with chip and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start engines.
This is because modern car keys are equipped with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed to function properly. This can only by done by a professional that knows what they are doing, like an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional in service.
The cost of mechanical keys is inexpensive, however the programming chip used in the latest cars will typically cost more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it safe.
It's crucial to know the type of car keys you have before seeking help. A standard, older car key is a double-edged metal lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. They're not as common however you can find them at your local home improvement store for around $10.
The next type of car key is the transponder key that has an embedded security chip that transmits an alert to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and enable the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a 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 up to $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your car.
Transponder Keys
Cars with transponder keys use an embedded microchip in the key that communicates with your car. When the key is placed close to your vehicle or inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code which signals your car to start. This is an excellent feature to have because it deters theft. But, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult because a burglar requires both the right key and transmitter in order to turn your car on and take it away.
The cost of a brand new transponder key is usually a little more expensive than a standard key, but only because it has to be programmed as well. It is possible to program a transponder key by most locksmiths, but you should always ask your dealer about whether they are able to do it. They are the best choice because they have the most experience in programming these keys and can give you a better rate.
Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. It is important to do your research prior to buying your next car. You should be able to find out what type of key will work with it and whether it requires an unlocking device via a remote.
Certain newer vehicles have transponder password systems. They are more complicated as they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, as they employ rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your key were copied, it will not work in your car.
It is essential that you do not try to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the kind of key. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics won't help you if they notice indications that your car was opened or tampered with. This could make it difficult to obtain replacement parts, so be sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a car that has a laser cut key, you'll see that it's a lot harder to lose or steal than a traditional key made of metal. These keys have no notches 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. When looking at the key from the top, it is easy to tell whether it's fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to spot also means that you can avoid being locked out if you lose your keys while at work or running around.
If you own keys that have been laser-cut, you will need to contact a professional locksmith who has the necessary equipment to make these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases your local hardware store won't be able create an original laser-cut key since they don't have the equipment required to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.
A locksmith will employ an instrument that appears like a regular drill to mill the metal of the key. This will cut off the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique key's code is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.
Laser-cut keys are different from a normal transponder keys because they do not contain any electronic components or chips that can be changed. They have to be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive due to the full rebuild of the key.
It's always an excellent idea to have at least one spare key in your possession in the event that you accidentally lose your car keys. Then, you can call an locksmith to have 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 that your car is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs which allow you to open and start the vehicle without the need for a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming but it's best to have your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are well-versed in your particular car to ensure that the reprogramming is done right.
The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced can cost as high as $500, depending on the type of key you drive and if it's a smart or remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key that you may want to have in case your key fob goes missing or stolen.
The loss of your car keys used to be an inconvenience. It's now a major problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern cars have made keys so easy to use and strong that thieves are able to steal keys. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal the keys.
These new keys come in different shapes and sizes however the most expensive is one that includes an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart key" comes with an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob, similar to a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or hidden in a coat pocket. These are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have a spare key fob that can be used in your car and can be duplicated, think about trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or an independent locksmith and key company that offers programming for many vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob at less than what a dealer will charge, which could save you $200 or more. Be sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, make and model as your original so that it can be programmed to work with your vehicle.