How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It's never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO can help you get back on the road in a hurry by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
If you lose your keys, it is an ideal idea to have a spare. To make this more convenient, we have created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big issue. You could just buy a spare key, and use it to turn on the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it is much more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.
Employing an auto locksmith is the cheapest alternative. They usually can duplicate a metal key for less than $50. However, this type of key isn't equipped with a chip and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
Modern car keys come with transponders, also known as chips, that must be programmed to work properly. This is only done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional in service.
The cost of mechanical keys is affordable, however the programming chip used in a modern car will usually cost you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is by making sure you always have a backup key and keep it somewhere secure.
It is important to determine the type of car key you own before seeking assistance. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. Keys like these aren't as popular however they are available at your local home improvement store for $10.
The next kind of car key is the transponder key that has 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 duplicate than a mechanical key and can only be done with specific tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith dealer in the car. auto key replacements can cost as high as $500 or more depending on the make and model.
Transponder Keys
Cars with transponder keys use microchips inside the key to communicate with your car. When the key is put in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it transmits an encoded code that allows your car to start. This feature is great as it wards off theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar requires both the right key and transmitter to turn your car on and then drive off with it.
A transponder key costs slightly more than a regular one, but that's only because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by the majority of locksmiths, however you should always inquire with your dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best choice since they have the most experience in programming these keys and can provide you with a better price.
A lot of automakers have their own distinct anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it is crucial to research the most important options before you purchase your next vehicle. You should be able to figure out which type of key is compatible with it and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.
Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder 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 every time they are used. This means that even if your key is copied, it will not work with your car.
It is essential that you do not try to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This can cause alarms to insurance companies and cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help you out in the event of indications that your car has been tampered with or forced open. This could make it difficult to obtain replacement parts, so be sure to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
A key that has been laser-cut is much more difficult to lose or steal than a metal key. The keys don't have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove that's cut to a specific depth in the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to tell the difference between genuine and fake keys when you look at it from the top. They are easy to spot and you won't be locked out if your key is lost while doing errands or working.
If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call a locksmith that has specialized equipment for making these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit isn't likely to create an alternative key that is laser-cut, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this type of key fob.
A locksmith will use an apparatus that looks like the drill used in standard homes to mill the key's metal. This will remove the entire surface to the desired length. The unique key's code is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut to the specifications of your vehicle.
Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys don't have any electronics or chips inside of them that can be replaced, so they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive since they require a full rebuild of the key.
Keep a spare car key in your car just in case of. Then, you can call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so that you can reenter your car without having to pay for it to be towed to the dealer.
Fobs
There's a chance that you don't own an old classic vehicle however, your car likely has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to open and start it without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed in order to work with the car you own. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming, but it is usually recommended to let your dealer do it. They have the right tools and are well-versed in your specific car to ensure that the reprogramming is done correctly.
The cost of having your car's key fob replaced could cost as high as $500, depending on the kind of key you use and if it's remote-controlled or smart. car replacement key doesn't include the cost of an electronic backup key that you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.
The loss of your car key was once a hassle. It's now a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys so easy to use and strong that thieves can take keys. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal the keys.
The new keys are available in different dimensions and shapes, but the one that comes with transponder and mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart key" features an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds down into the fob, similar to an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to get lost or hidden in a coat pocket. These are usually more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealer.
If you have a spare fob that can be used in your vehicle and can be duplicated, think about trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or an independent locksmith and key specialist which offers programming for a variety of automobiles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob for a much lower cost than what a dealership would charge, saving up to $200 or more. Just make sure the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, model and model as your previous so that it can be programmed to work with your vehicle.
