How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of your car keys is not a pleasant experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road fast by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
Before you lose your key It is an ideal idea to make a backup. We have compiled a guide on how much it costs to replace a car key.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big issue. You could just buy a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. However, today's cars are much more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace the key that was lost.
Hiring an auto locksmith is the cheapest alternative. They will usually be capable of copying a standard metal key and do so for about $50 or less. This kind of key isn't equipped with chip and will not be able 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 who knows what they are doing, such as a local locksmith or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.
The cost to have a mechanical key copied is fairly low, but the programming of the chip in modern cars will typically cost more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key and keep it in a safe place.
There are five types of car keys available, so it's crucial to know which one you have before seeking help to replace it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. These aren't common anymore however, you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for around $10.
The next type is a transponder car key. It has embedded security microchips which sends a signal to the car's computers to open the doors and start the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a basic mechanical key, and can only be copied with specific tools that only a locksmith or car dealer has access to. This can cost up to $500 or more, depending on your car's make and model.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their car. They incorporate a microchip in the key. When the key is placed close to your vehicle, or placed in the ignition, it transmits an electronic code which signals your car to start. This is an excellent feature to have because it discourages theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car since a burglar would require both the key and the transmitter to turn it on and drive off with it.
Transponder keys cost just a bit more than a regular key, however, it's because it needs to be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be able to program the transponder key, however it is recommended to ask your dealership whether they are able to do this as well. They are the best option as they have the best experience in programming these keys and will provide you with a better price.
Many automakers have their own distinct anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it is essential to research all the key options prior to buying your next car. You should be able to find out what type of key works with it, and whether or not it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.
Certain newer vehicles have transponder password systems. These are a bit more complicated because they require a specific key tool to program them. However they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key has been duplicated, it won't work with your vehicle.
Whatever type of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital that you do not attempt to open the door of your car yourself. This can be a red flag to insurance companies and cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help in the event of indications that your vehicle has been altered or opened. It can be extremely difficult to get a new key, so make sure you contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a car that has a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's much harder to lose or be stolen than a traditional metal key. These keys do not have a notch along the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that's cut to a specific depth along the key's face. This makes it very easy to distinguish between authentic and fake keys when you look at it from the top. The fact that they're easy to spot also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out if you lose your keys while at work or doing around.
If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call locksmiths that have equipment for these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit is unlikely to be able make you the replacement key laser-cut since they do not have the tools to cut and program this type of key fob.
A locksmith will employ an instrument that resembles an ordinary drill to cut the key's metal. This will cut the entire surface until it is the desired length. The key's unique code will be retrieved from the VIN and the key will then be cut to match your vehicle's specifications.
Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not contain any chips or electronics inside of them that can be replaced, which means that they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a brand new key. This is why laser-cut keys are so expensive, since they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.
It's a good idea to keep at least one spare key on hand in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. So, you'll be able to call the locksmith and cut it and program it for you so that you'll gain access to your vehicle without needing to pay to have it tow-back to the dealership.
Fobs
If you do not own a classic car, the chances are your vehicle uses one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start your car without having a key. car key replacement are equipped with special computer chips that need to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming, however it's better to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and have all the necessary tools.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob could be as high as $500, depending on whether it is smart key or remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of a mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that your fob gets lost or stolen.
Losing your car key was once a source of frustration. Now it's a serious problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern cars have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves can steal keys. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal them.
The new keys are available in a variety of dimensions and shapes, but the one that has both transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart" key features a spring-loaded shank that folds in the fob to form an e-switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or put in a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealer.
If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be copied to work in another vehicle, you may be interested in purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who can program a variety of vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob for less than the price a dealership will charge, thereby costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure you buy the fob and key that has the same year, model and make as your original to ensure that it is compatible with your vehicle.