How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road quickly by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
It is a good plan to buy an extra key before you lose yours. To make this more convenient we've created a list of the cost of replacement car keys. cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big problem. You could buy a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. However, modern automobiles are much more advanced in technology and it's more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.
Hiring replacement key for car near me is the most affordable option. They are usually able to copy a basic metal key and do so for around $50 or less. However, this type of key isn't equipped with an electronic chip, and therefore will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.
Modern car keys come with transponders or chips that must be programmed to work correctly. This is only done by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, for instance an auto locksmith in your area or an auto dealership service professional.
The cost to have 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 in your car and keep it safe.
It is important to determine the type of car keys you have before seeking help. An older, standard car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your vehicle. Keys like these aren't as popular however, they are available at your local home improvement store for about $10.
The next type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the computer in the vehicle to open the doors and begin the engine. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be done with special tools that are only accessible to a locksmith or car dealer. The cost for this could be up to $500 or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their car. They incorporate microchips in the keys. When the key is placed into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is a wonderful feature to have as it deters theft. However, it makes stealing your car more difficult as a burglar will require both the correct key and transmitter to turn your car on and take it away.
A transponder key costs a little bit more than a regular key however, this is because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by most locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your car dealer if they can do it. This is because they typically have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys, and may be able to offer you the most competitive price.
A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it's essential to research all the key options prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able find out which kind of key will work with it, and whether or not it requires an unlocking device via a remote.
Some newer cars come equipped with a transponder system for passwords. They are a little more complex as they require a specific key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, because they employ rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that even if the key is copied, it will not work with your vehicle.
Regardless of what type of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital to never attempt to break into your own car yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they see signs that your vehicle was opened or altered. This can make it very difficult to obtain a replacement, so be certain to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you own a car with a laser-cut key, you'll find that it's a lot harder to lose or get stolen than a traditional key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that's cut to a particular depth on the face of the key. This makes it very easy to differentiate between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from above. They are easy to spot and you won't be locked out of your home if your key gets lost while working or running errands.
If your key is laser-cut, you'll need to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment for making these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store isn't likely to make you an alternative key that is laser-cut, as they lack the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.
A locksmith will employ an apparatus that resembles the drill used in standard homes to cut the key's metal. This will reduce all the surface to the desired length. The unique key's code is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is cut to your vehicle's specifications.
Laser-cut keys are different from a traditional transponder keys since they do not contain any electronic components or chips that can be changed. They must be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. This is why laser-cut keys are expensive, since they require a total rebuild of the entire key.
It's an excellent idea to have at least one spare key available in case you happen to lose your car keys. You can then contact a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so that you can get back into your car without having to pay for it to be towed by the dealer.
key replacement car
Unless you own an old classic car, chances that your car is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that allow you to unlock and start the vehicle without the need for a key. These keys come with computer chips that need to 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 recommended to let your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are knowledgeable about the specific vehicle you have and can ensure that it's done correctly.
The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced could cost as high as $500, based on the type of key you use and whether it's remote-controlled or smart. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key that you may need in the event your fob gets lost or stolen.
Losing your car key used to be an inconvenience. It's now a major problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern automobiles have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves can steal keys. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys come in different sizes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that includes a transponder and a mechanical key inside the same fob. This "smart key" has a spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or hidden in a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the assistance of a dealership to replace.
If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and that can be copied to work with another vehicle, you may want to consider ordering a replacement aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a key and lock specialist who offers programming for many different vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at less than what a dealer would charge, which could save you $200 or more. Just make sure the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, make and model as your original so it can be coded to work with your car.