How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It is never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.
When you lose your key It is an ideal idea to have a spare made. We have compiled a guide on how much it costs to replace keys for cars.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, losing or losing the car key was not a big deal. You could buy a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it's more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.
Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable alternative. They are usually able to copy a basic metal key and do so for around $50 or less. However, this kind of key doesn't have chips and will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.
Modern car keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to function correctly. This is only done by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, like an auto locksmith in your area or an expert from a dealership's service department.
content of mechanical keys is low, but the programming chip that is used in a modern car will usually cost more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key and store it safely.
There are five types of car keys available, so it's important to know which one you have before getting help with replacing it. A more traditional, older car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your car. These aren't common anymore, but you should be able find them at your local hardware store for about $10.
The next type is the transponder car key. This key has embedded security microchips which sends a signal to the car's computers to open the doors and start the engine. This type 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. This can cost up to $500 or more based on the model and make.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize a microchip inside of the key that communicates with your car. When the key is placed close to your vehicle or placed in the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that tells your car to start. This feature is beneficial as it wards off theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar requires both the right key and the transmitter in order to turn your car on and drive away with it.
A transponder key costs slightly more than a regular one, however, it's because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with many locksmiths, but you should always ask your car dealer if they can do it. They are the best option because they have the most knowledge of programming these keys and will provide you with a better price.
Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft systems. It is crucial to conduct your research prior to buying your next car. You will be able to figure out what type of key works with it and if it requires an unlocking device via a remote.
Certain newer vehicles have a transponder-based password system. These are more complex as they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, since they use rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your keys were cloned it would not work in your car.
Whatever type of key you've got regardless of the type, it is essential to never attempt to break into your own vehicle by yourself. This could raise red flags with insurance companies and will cause many mechanics to refuse to assist you particularly if they notice signs that the car has been tampered with or forced to open. This can make it very hard to get replacement parts, so be sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
content -Cut Keys
If you have a car that has a laser cut key, you'll find that it's a lot harder to lose or steal than a conventional metal key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they have a groove cut to a certain depth along the key's face. When looking at the key from the top it's easy to tell whether it's a fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to recognize also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out in the event that you lose your keys while at work or doing around.
If you own keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to call an expert locksmith who has the necessary equipment to make these types of replacements. In most cases, your local hardware store won't be able create an original laser-cut key since they don't have the equipment required to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.
A locksmith will employ an instrument that appears like a regular drill to cut the metal of the key. This will cut off the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code will then be retrieved from the VIN and the key will then be cut to meet 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 must be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive since they require a full rebuild of the key.
It's always an excellent idea to have at least one spare key in your possession in the event that you accidentally lose your car key. This way you'll be able call the locksmith and cut and program the key for you, so that you can gain access to your vehicle again without having to pay to have it towed back to the dealership.
Fobs
Unless you own an old classic car, chances are your vehicle uses one of the most advanced high-tech fobs which allow you to unlock and start the car without a key. These keys come with computer chips that must be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming but it is generally better to let your dealer handle it. They have the right tools and are knowledgeable about your particular car to ensure that the reprogramming is done correctly.
The cost of replacing your car key fob can be as high as $500 depending on whether it is an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key you might want to have in case your fob gets lost or stolen.
The loss of your car keys used to be an inconvenience. Now it's a serious problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys that useful and reliable that thieves can steal them. The advancements in the technology of car keys have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, however the one with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is the most expensive. The "smart" key has an elongated shank that is spring loaded and folds in the fob to form an e-switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or hidden into a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the assistance of a dealership to replace.
If you have an additional fob that works with your vehicle and can be cloned to work with another vehicle, you may be interested in purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a business like Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist that offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob for an affordable price compared to what a dealer will charge, thereby which could save you $200 or more. Make sure you purchase the fob and key that has the same model, year and model as your original to ensure it can be programmed to your vehicle.