How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing your car keys is never a pleasant experience. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road fast by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
It is a good idea to buy a spare key before you lose yours. To make this easier, we have put together a guide to how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge issue. You could purchase an extra and put it in the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more technologically advanced, and it is much more costly to replace keys that have been lost.
The most affordable method to accomplish this is to get an auto locksmith. They are usually able to duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. This type of key isn't equipped with a chip, and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start an engine.
Modern car keys come with transponders, also known as chips, that need to be programmed to work properly. automotive car key replacement can only be done by a professional who understands what they're doing, like an auto locksmith in your area or an expert from a dealership's service department.
The cost of mechanical keys is inexpensive, however the programming chip used in the latest cars will typically cost you more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key on hand and store it safely.
There are five distinct types of car keys available, therefore it is important to identify which one you have before seeking help to replace it. A more traditional, older car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and turned to turn on your car. These keys aren't as common however, you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.
The second type of car key is the transponder with an embedded security chip that sends a signal to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and allow the engine to start. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be done with specific tools that are only accessible to a locksmith car dealer. It can cost as high as $500 or more based on your car's make and model.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their car. They incorporate an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is inserted into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is an excellent feature to have since it helps to prevent theft. However, it makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar will require both the correct key and transmitter in order to turn on your car and then drive off with it.
A transponder key is a little bit more than a regular one, however, it's because it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by many locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your dealer if they are able to do it. This is because they typically have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys, and may be able to provide you with a more competitive price.
Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it's essential to research all the key options prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able find out which kind of key works with it and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder. These are more complicated as they require a specific key tool to program them. However they are also more secure because they employ rolling code encryption to change the password each time they're used. This means that even if the key is copied, it will not work with your car.
Whatever type of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital that you do not attempt to open the door of your vehicle by yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will refuse to assist you if they see signs that your car has been opened or altered. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a new key, so you should contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
A key that has been laser-cut is much harder to steal or lose than a metal key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edges of the blade - instead there's a groove that cuts to a certain depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. automotive car key replacement makes it easy to differentiate between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from above. 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 laser-cut you'll need to call an locksmith who has equipment for these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases your local hardware store will not be able to make you an original laser-cut key since they don't have the equipment required to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.
A locksmith uses an instrument that appears like a regular drill to cut the metal of the key. This will remove the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The unique key's code is then obtained from the VIN and the key is cut to the specifications of your vehicle.
Laser-cut keys are different from a traditional transponder keys since they don't contain electronic components or chips that can be changed. They have to be destroyed and replaced with an entirely new model. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive since they require a full reconstruction of the key.
It's recommended to keep at least one spare key available in case you do accidentally lose your car key. That way you'll be able contact the locksmith to cut and program the key for you, so that you'll gain access to your vehicle again without having to pay to get it tow-back at the dealership.
Fobs
There's a chance that you don't have an old-fashioned car but your vehicle probably has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to open and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys contain special computer chips that must be programmed to work with the car you own. There are locksmiths who can assist you in this process, though it's usually best to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the necessary tools.
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 whether it's a smart or remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of an electronic backup key that you may want in case your fob is lost or stolen.
The loss of your car keys was once a source of frustration. It's now a major problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern automobiles have made keys that convenient and powerful that thieves can steal them. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal the keys.
The new keys come in various sizes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that has a transponder and a mechanical key inside the same fob. 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 tucked into a coat pocket. These are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealer.
If you have a spare key fob that is in your car and can be duplicated, think about trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key specialist that offers programming for many automobiles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at less than the price a dealership will charge, thereby costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure you purchase the fob and key that has the same model, year and model as your original to ensure it can be programmed to your vehicle.