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 roads.
If you lose your keys It is an ideal idea to have a spare. To make this more convenient, we have created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, losing or losing the car key was not a big problem. You could buy a spare key, and use it to turn the ignition. Nowadays, however, replacement auto key are more technologically advanced and it is much more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.
Employing an auto locksmith is the cheapest alternative. They usually can duplicate a metal key for less than $50. However, this kind of key doesn't come with chips and won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
Modern car keys have transponders, or chips, that must be programmed to work properly. This can only be done by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, like a local locksmith or even an expert from a dealership's service department.
The cost of having an electronic key copied is relatively low however programming the chip used in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key and keep it in a safe place.
There are five kinds of car keys, therefore it is important to identify which one you have before receiving assistance in replacing it. A more traditional, older car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and then turned to start your vehicle. These keys aren't as common however, they are available at your local home improvement store for around $10.
The next type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip which sends a signal to the car's computers to open the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and can only be duplicated using specialized tools that are only available to a locksmith or dealer of cars. It can cost as high as $500 or more based on the car's make and model.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their vehicle. They incorporate a microchip in the key. When the key is close to your car, or placed in the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This feature is great as it wards off theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult as a burglar will need both the correct key and the transmitter to turn on your car and take it away.
A transponder key costs a little bit more than a regular key but that's only because it must be programmed. Locksmiths are generally capable of programming the transponder key, however it is recommended to ask your car dealership whether they are able to do this also. They are the best choice as they have the best knowledge of programming these keys and will give you a better rate.
Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft systems. It is important to do your research prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able find out which kind of key is compatible with it and whether it requires an unlocking device via a remote.
Some newer vehicles come with a transponder-based password system. These are more complex as they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, since they utilize rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your keys were duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.
Whatever type of key you've got regardless of the type, it is essential to never attempt to gain entry into your vehicle yourself. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics will not assist you if they observe indications that your car has been forced open or damaged. It is very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so make sure you contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
A key that has been laser-cut is much more difficult to take or lose than a key made of metal. These keys do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove that's cut to a particular depth along the face of the key. When you look at the key from the top it's easy to determine if it's a fake or not. The fact that they're easy to spot also means that you're not at risk of being locked out in the event that you misplace your key while you're at work or running for errands.
If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to talk to a locksmith professional with the equipment to make these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store is unlikely to be able make you the replacement key laser-cut because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.
A locksmith will use a machine that appears like a standard drill to mill the metal of the key, which will cut off the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code will be found from the VIN and the key will then be cut according to your vehicle's specifications.
Laser-cut keys are different from a regular transponder key because they do not contain any electronic chips or electronics that can be changed. They have to be destroyed and replaced by a new one. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive due to the full rebuild of the key.
It's recommended to keep at least one spare key available in case you happen to lose your car keys. You can then contact a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can reenter your vehicle without having pay for it to be tow back to the dealer.
Fobs
If you don't own a classic car, chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start your car without having a key. These keys have special computer chips that need to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. There are locksmiths who can assist you in this process but it's generally best to have your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are knowledgeable about your particular car to ensure that the reprogramming is done correctly.
The cost of replacing your car key fob could be up to $500 based on whether it is an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of a mechanical backup key that you may want in case your fob is lost or stolen.
It used to be that losing your car keys was a hassle however, it's now an actual issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern cars have made keys so convenient and powerful that thieves are able to take keys. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in various dimensions and shapes, but the one with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart key" comes with a spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob, similar to a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or hidden in the pocket of a coat. These keys are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and that can be cloned to work with another vehicle, you may be interested in purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who offers programming for various vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for less than what a dealer charges, saving yourself as much as $200 or more. Just make sure 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 car.