How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing keys to your car is not a pleasant experience. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road in a hurry by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
Before you lose your key, it is a good idea to have a spare made. We have compiled a list on how much it costs to replace the car key.
Mechanical Keys
Not long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big deal. You could simply buy a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. However, modern automobiles are much more advanced in technology and it's more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.
Employing an auto locksmith is the cheapest alternative. They can usually copy a metal key for less than $50. This type of key doesn't have a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start engines.
Modern car keys include transponders, also known as chips, which must be programmed in order to function correctly. This is only done by a professional who knows what they are doing, for instance a local locksmith or a car dealer professional in service.
The cost of a mechanical key is relatively low, but the programming chip that is used in the latest cars will typically cost more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key and keep it in a safe place.
There are five kinds of car keys, so it's crucial to know the type you have before receiving assistance in replacing it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged metal lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. They're not as common, but you should be able find them at your local hardware store for about $10.
The next type is the transponder car key. It has an embedded security microchip which sends a signal to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and start the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a standard mechanical key, and it can only be copied using specialized tools that only a locksmith or a dealer can access. It could cost you $500 or more based on the car's model and make.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their car. They use a microchip in the key. When the key is put in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it sends a code to signal your car to begin. This is a wonderful feature to have because it helps to prevent theft. But, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult because a burglar will require both the correct key and transmitter to turn your car on and then drive off with it.
The cost of a brand new transponder keys is typically a little more expensive than a traditional key, but only because it must be programmed. Locksmiths are generally competent to program a transponder key, but it is recommended to ask your car dealership whether they are able to program it also. They are the best option because they have the most experience in programming these keys, and they can offer you a better price.
A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it is crucial to research the most important options prior to purchasing your next car. You will be able to figure out what type of key will work with it and whether it requires an unlocking device via a remote.
Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder. These are more complicated because they require special tools to program them. However, they are more secure because they employ rolling code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key has been duplicated, it won't work with your car.
It is crucial that you don't attempt to break into your car on your own, no matter the kind of key. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics will not assist you if they observe signs that your car has been opened or altered. This will make it extremely hard to get a replacement, so be certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a car that has a laser cut key, you'll see that it's much harder to lose or steal than a traditional metal key. These keys do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they have a groove that is cut to a certain depth in the middle of the face of the key. When you look at the key from above 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 if you misplace your keys while at work or running for errands.
If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call locksmiths that have equipment for these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases, your local hardware store won't be able create an original laser-cut key since they don't have the tools needed to cut and program these types of key fobs.
A locksmith will employ a machine that looks very 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 code of the key is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is cut to your vehicle's specifications.
Laser-cut keys are different from a normal transponder keys because they don't contain electronic chips or electronics that can be changed. They have to be destroyed and replaced by the new model. Laser-cut keys are expensive due to the complete rebuild of the key.
Keep at least one spare car key in your car just in case. You can then call an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed, so you can reenter your car without having to pay for it to be tow back to the dealer.
Fobs
Unless you own an old classic car, chances that your car is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs which allow you to unlock and start your car without having a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming for you, though it's usually best to have your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are well-versed in the specific vehicle you have, which can ensure it's done right.
The cost of replacing your car key fob can be up to $500 based on whether it's a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you may wish to have in the event your fob gets lost or stolen.
The loss of your car keys was once a source of frustration. Now, linked internet site 's a huge issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern cars have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves can steal keys. The advances in technology for car keys have made it harder for thieves.
The new keys are available in different dimensions and shapes, but the one that has both a transponder as well as a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank that folds in the fob to form a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or tucked 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 additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be copied to work in another vehicle, you may want to consider ordering an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who can program various vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for much less than a dealership charges, saving yourself around $200 or more. Make sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, model and model as your original to ensure it is programmed to work with your vehicle.