How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of keys to your car is not a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.
If you lose your keys, it is an ideal idea to make a backup. We have compiled a list on the cost to replace a car key.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge problem. You could buy a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. However, modern cars are much more technologically advanced and it is more expensive to replace the key that was lost.
The most affordable method to accomplish this is to hire an auto locksmith. They usually can duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. However, this type of key doesn't have a chip and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
Modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, which must be programmed properly. This can only be done by a professional who understands what they're doing, such as an auto locksmith in your area or a car dealership service professional.
The cost of mechanical keys is low, but the programming chip used in modern cars can cost you more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key in your car and store it safely.
There are five distinct types of car keys available, so it's important to know which one you have before getting help with replacing it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged metal lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your car. These aren't common anymore, but you should be able find them at your local hardware store for about $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 duplicate than a mechanical key and can only be duplicated using specialized tools that are accessible to a locksmith or dealer in the car. It could cost you $500 or more, depending on the car's model and make.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys have an embedded microchip in the key to connect 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 a wonderful feature to have as it helps to prevent theft. However, it makes stealing your car much more difficult because a burglar requires both the right key and the transmitter in order to start your car and drive away 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 transponder key by the majority of locksmiths, however it is best to inquire with your dealer about whether they are able to do it. They are the best option as they have the best expertise in programming these keys and can give you a better rate.
A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems. It is essential to conduct your research prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which type of key will work with it, and whether or not it requires a remote to unlock it.
Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder system. These are more complex as they require a particular key tool to program them. However, they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your key were copied, it will not work in your car.
Regardless of what type of key you have regardless of the type, it is essential that you do not attempt to gain entry into your car yourself. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they notice indications that your car was opened or altered. This can make it very hard to get an exchange, so make sure to speak with an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
A key that has been laser-cut is much more difficult to lose or steal than a traditional key. The keys don't have a notch on the edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a particular depth along the face of the key. When you look at the key from above, it is easy to identify if it's a fake or not. They are easy to recognize and you won't be locked out if you have your key lost while you're doing errands or working.
If your key is laser-cut, you'll need to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment for these kinds of replacements. In car key replacements , 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 types of key fobs.
A locksmith will use a machine that looks very like a regular drill to cut the key's metal, which will be able to cut the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code can be found from the VIN and the key will be cut to match the specifications of your vehicle.
In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys do not have any electronic components or chips inside that can be replaced, which means that they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive due to the full reconstruction of the key.
Keep at least one spare car key in your possession just in case of. You can then call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed, so you can get back into your car without having to pay for it to be towed to the dealer.
Fobs
There's a chance that you don't have an old classic car, but your car probably uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys contain special electronic chips that need to be programmed to work with the vehicle you own. There are locksmiths who can assist you in this process however it's recommended to let your dealer handle it. They have the necessary tools and are well-versed in your particular car to ensure that the reprogramming is done correctly.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob can be as high as $500, depending on whether it is a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key that you might wish to have in the event your key fob goes missing or stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car key was a pain, but now it's a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern cars have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves are able to steal them. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, however the one with transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank that can fold into the fob in the same way as an e-switchblade. key replacement car is less likely to be lost or put in a pocket of a coat. These are typically pricier than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the assistance of a dealership to replace.
If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be cloned to work in another vehicle, you may want to consider ordering a replacement aftermarket from a company such as Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob for an affordable price compared to the price a dealership will charge, which could save you $200 or more. Make sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as your previous so that it can be programmed to work with your car.