How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road fast with Emergency Roadside Service.
If you lose your keys, it is recommended to have a spare. We have put together a guide on the cost to replace a car key.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big problem. You could buy an extra and put it in the ignition. However, today's cars are much more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace the key that was lost.
The cheapest way to do this is to employ an auto locksmith. They usually can duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. This type of key isn't equipped with chip and won't be able to unlock doors or start engines.
Modern car keys have transponders, also known as chips, which must be programmed in order to function correctly. This is only done by a professional who understands what they're doing, such as the local locksmith or a car dealership service professional.
automotive car key replacement of having a mechanical key copied is fairly low, but the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to make sure you always have a backup key and keep it in a safe place.
There are five types of car keys, therefore it is important to identify which one you have before receiving assistance in replacing it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. These keys aren't as common, but you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.
The next kind of car key is the transponder with an embedded security chip that sends 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 copy than a mechanical key, and can only be copied using special tools that only a locksmith or dealer in the car industry has access to. The cost of this service can be up to $500 or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their vehicle. They use a microchip in the key. When the key is close to your vehicle or when it is inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that tells your car to start. This feature is great as it wards off theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car, as a thief would need both the key and the transmitter to turn it off and take off with it.
The cost of a brand new transponder keys is typically a little more expensive than a standard key, but this is due to the fact that it needs to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be capable of programming a transponder key, but it is recommended to ask your dealership whether they are able to program it also. They are the best choice because they have the most knowledge of programming these keys and will give you a better rate.
Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft systems. It is crucial to conduct your research prior to buying your next car. You should be able find out which kind of key it is compatible with and whether it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.
Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder password system. These are a bit more complicated because they require a special key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, since they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that if your key was 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 type of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics won't help you if they notice signs that your car was opened or damaged. This can make it very difficult to obtain an exchange, so make sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
You'll find a laser-cut key is much harder to lose or steal than a key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edges of the blade - instead, there's a winding groove which cuts to a specific depth across the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from above, it is easy to identify whether 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 working or running errands.
If you own keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to call a professional locksmith who has the necessary equipment to make these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store isn't likely to make you an alternative key that is laser-cut, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.
Locksmiths use an instrument that resembles the drill used in standard homes to mill the key's metal. This will reduce the entire surface to the desired length. The key's unique code can be retrieved from the VIN, and the key will be cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.
Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not contain 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 are expensive due to the full rebuild of the key.
Have at least one spare car key in your possession just in the event of. You can then call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so you can reenter your vehicle without having to pay for it to be tow to the dealer.
Fobs
There's a chance that you don't have an old-fashioned car, but your car probably has one of the most modern high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that have to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming, however it is usually recommended to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the necessary tools.
The cost of replacing your car key fob could be as high as $500, depending on whether it's an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. automotive car key replacement does not include the cost of an electronic backup key that you may need in the event 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 are able to take them. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal them.
These new keys come in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that has a transponder and a mechanical key inside the same fob. This "smart key" features an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds up into the fob like an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to get lost or get tucked away in the pocket of a coat. They're generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and could require the assistance of a dealer to replace.
If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be duplicated to work in a different vehicle, you might want to consider ordering an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who can program a variety of vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob at less than what a dealership would charge, costing as little as $200 or more. Just make sure the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as the original so that it can be programmed to work with your vehicle.