How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of keys to your car is not a pleasant experience. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road in a hurry with Emergency Roadside Service.
When you lose your key it is recommended to have a spare made. We have put together a guide on the price to replace the car key.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big problem. You could simply purchase 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 are usually able to duplicate a metal key for less than $50. This kind of key does not have chip and will not be able unlock doors or start engines.
Modern car keys have transponders, also known as chips, that must be programmed correctly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who knows what they're doing, like an auto locksmith in your area or an expert from a dealership's service department.
The cost to have an electronic key copied is fairly low, but the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that you have a backup key and keep it in a safe place.
There are five distinct types of car keys, so it's important to know the type you have before receiving assistance in replacing it. An older, standard car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and then turned to turn on your car. Keys like these aren't as popular, but you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for about $10.
The next type of car key is the transponder with an embedded security chip that transmits a signal to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and enable the engine to start. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and it can only be copied with special tools that only a locksmith or a dealer in the car industry has access to. It could cost you $500 or more depending on the make and model.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by cars to connect with their car. They use an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is placed in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it sends an encoded code that allows your car to begin. This feature is beneficial as it wards off theft. However, it makes stealing your car much more difficult since a thief will require both the correct key and transmitter in order to turn your car on and then drive off with it.
The cost of purchasing a new transponder keys is typically higher than a standard key, but only because it has to be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be able to program keys that have transponders, but it is best to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to program it as well. They are the best choice since they have the most expertise in programming these keys and will offer you a better price.
Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft systems. It is important to do your research prior to buying your next car. You should be able to find out which type of key is compatible with it, and whether or not it requires an unlocking device via a remote.
Some newer vehicles come with a transponder password system. These are a bit more complex as they require a special key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, since they employ rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key has been copied, it will not work with your car.
auto key replacement is crucial that you do not try to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the type of key. This can raise alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics will not assist you if they see signs that your vehicle has been forced open or altered. This can make it very difficult to obtain an exchange, so make certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
A key that has been laser-cut is much harder to steal or lose than a metal key. These keys do not have a notch along the edge. Instead, they have a groove that is cut to a certain depth along the face of the key. When you look at the key from above, it is easy to tell if it's a fake or not. They are easy to identify and will not get locked out if you have your key lost while you're doing errands or working.
If you have an uncut laser key, you will need to contact an expert locksmith with the equipment to make these kinds of replacements. Most of the time your local hardware store will not be able to make you a new laser-cut key because they don't have the machinery required to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.
Locksmiths use an instrument that resembles an ordinary drill to cut the metal of the key. This will reduce all the surface to the desired length. The unique key's code is then obtained from the VIN and the key is cut to your vehicle's specifications.
Laser-cut keys differ from regular transponder key because they do not contain any electronic chips or electronics which can be altered. They have to be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. This is why laser-cut keys are so expensive, as they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.
Keep a spare car key in your possession in case of the event of. This way you'll be able contact the locksmith to cut and program the key for you so that you'll gain access to your vehicle without needing to pay to have it towed back by the dealership.
Fobs
If you do not own a classic car, chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs which allow you to unlock and start the car without having a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able to assist you in this process but it's generally recommended to let your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and have all the tools needed.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob could be as high as $500 depending on whether it is smart key or remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of an electronic backup key that you might need in the event that the fob goes missing or is stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car keys was an inconvenience However, now it's a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys so convenient and powerful that thieves are able to take them. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal them.
The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, however the one with transponder and a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart key" features an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds into the fob like the switchblade, making it less likely to be lost or hidden in a coat pocket. These are usually more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have a spare fob that is in your vehicle and could be cloned, consider trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a firm like Amazon or a third-party key and lock specialist that offers programming for many automobiles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge, saving yourself around $200 or more. Just make sure the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as the original to ensure it is programmed to work with your car.