How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It's never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the road.
If you lose your keys it is recommended to make a backup. We have put together a guide on the cost to replace the car key.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge issue. You could buy an extra key and then use it in the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more technologically advanced and it's much more expensive to replace keys lost.
Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They'll usually be capable of copying a basic metal key and do so for about $50 or less. This type of key doesn't have a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start engines.
Modern car keys come with transponders, also known as chips, that need to be programmed correctly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they are doing, like an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional in service.
The cost to have an electronic key copied is relatively cheap however programming the chip in modern cars will typically cost more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it in a safe place.
It's important to identify the type of car keys you have before contacting a locksmith. A more traditional, older car key has a traditional 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, but you can find them at your local home improvement store for around $10.
The second type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with embedded security microchips that sends a message to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key, and it can only be copied using special tools that only a locksmith or dealer can access. The cost for this can be up to $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your car.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their vehicle. They are equipped with a microchip in the key. When the key is inserted into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is a wonderful feature to have because it deters theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult since a thief will require both the correct key and the transmitter in order to start your car and drive away with it.
Transponder keys cost just a bit more than a regular key, however, this is because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by most locksmiths, but you should always ask your car dealer if they are able to do it. This is because they often have the most experience with these types of keys and could be able to give you the most competitive price.
Many automotive manufacturers have their own distinct anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it's important to research the key options prior to buying your next car. You should be able to find out which type of key works with it and if it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.
visit this backlink come equipped with a password transponder system. They are a little more complex as they require a specific key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, since they employ rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that if your key was copied, it will not work in your car.
Whatever type of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital that you never try to break into your own car yourself. This can raise red flags with insurance companies and will cause many mechanics to refuse to help, especially if they see indications that your vehicle has been altered or opened. It will be very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a vehicle that has a laser cut key, you'll find that it's more difficult to lose or be stolen than a traditional metal key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edge of the blade - instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a set depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from above, it is easy to tell if it's a fake or not. Cheapest car key replacement near me that they're so easy to spot also means that you can avoid being locked out if you lose your key while you're working or running errands.
If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you will need to contact a professional locksmith who has the right equipment to make these types of replacements. The hardware store you visit is unlikely to be able create a laser-cut replacement key, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.
A locksmith will use a machine that appears like a standard drill to cut the metal of the key. This will be able to cut the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The key's unique code will be found from the VIN and the key will then be cut to match the specifications of your car.
In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys don't have any electronics or chips inside them that could be replaced, so they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys are expensive due to the complete rebuild of the key.
Keep a spare car key in your possession just in case of. Then, you can call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can get back into your vehicle without having pay for it to be tow by the dealer.
Fobs
Unless you own an old classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs which allow you to open and start the car without having a key. The keys contain electronic chips that need to be programmed in order to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming on your behalf, though it's usually best to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the tools needed.
The cost of replacing your car key fob could be as high as $500 depending on whether it's a smart key or a remote-controlled key. That's not even including the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key that you might want to have in case your key fob goes missing or stolen.
The loss of your car key was once a source of frustration. Now it's a serious issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys that easy to use and strong that thieves can take them. The advances in car key technologies have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, however the one with transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart key" features a spring-loaded shank that folds 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 regular remote-controlled ones and may require the assistance of a dealership to replace.
If you have a spare fob that can be used in your car and can be cloned, consider trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a firm such as Amazon or a third-party key and lock specialist which offers programming for a variety of automobiles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob at less than what a dealer would charge, saving up to $200 or more. Make sure you buy the fob and key that's the identical model, year, and model as your original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.