How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It's never a good feeling to lose your car keys. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road quickly with Emergency Roadside Service.
It is a good idea to order an extra key before you lose yours. We have compiled a list on the price to replace the car key.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge problem. You could just buy a spare key, and use it to turn on the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it's much more expensive to replace keys lost.
The cheapest way to do this is to get an auto locksmith. They are usually able to duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with a chip and won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
This is due to the fact that modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that have to be programmed to work properly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they're doing, like a local locksmith or even a car dealership service professional.
The cost to have a mechanical key copied is relatively cheap however, the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key and keep it in a safe place.
There are five distinct types of car keys, so it's crucial to know the type you have before seeking help to replace it. A more traditional, older car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder and turned to turn on your car. These keys aren't as common however, they are available at your local home improvement store for around $10.
The next type is a transponder car key. It has embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the computer in the vehicle to open the doors and start the engine. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and is only possible with specialized tools that are only available to a locksmith or car dealer. The cost for this could be up to $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their car. They use microchips in the keys. When the key is put into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it sends an encoded code that allows your car to begin. key replacement car is great because it deters theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car, because a burglar will need both the key and transmitter to turn it on before they could drive off with it.
A transponder key costs just a bit more than a regular key however, it's because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by the majority of locksmiths, however you should always ask your dealer about whether they can do it. They are the best option since they have the most experience in programming these keys and can give you a better rate.
Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. It is essential to conduct your research prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You will be able to figure out what type of key works with it and whether it requires a remote to unlock it.
Some newer vehicles come with a transponder-based password system. They are a little more complex as they require a special key tool to program them. However they are more secure because they employ rolling code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key has been cloned, it will not work with your car.
It is crucial to not attempt to break into your car on your own, no matter the kind of key. This can be a red flag to insurance companies and will make mechanics reluctant to help, especially if they see signs that the vehicle has been altered or forced to open. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a new key, so contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll find that it's much harder to lose or be stolen than a conventional metal key. These keys do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they have a groove that's cut to a specific depth on the face of the key. When looking at the key from above it's easy to tell whether it's fake or not. They are easy to recognize and you won't be locked out of your home if your key gets lost while working or running errands.
If you own an uncut laser key, you will need to contact a locksmith professional who has the right equipment to make these types of replacements. Most of the time, your local hardware store will not be able to make you an original laser-cut key since they don't have the equipment needed to cut and program these kinds of keys.
A locksmith will use an instrument that appears like a regular drill to mill the metal of the key. This will remove the entire surface of the key until 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 are not like traditional transponder keys since they don't contain electronic chips or electronics which can be altered. They have to be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. This is the reason why laser-cut keys can be expensive, since they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.
It's always a good idea to keep at least one spare key available in the event that you accidentally lose your car key. So, you'll be able to contact the locksmith to have it cut and programmed for you, so that you'll have access to your car without having to pay to have it towed back at the dealership.
Fobs
You may not have an old-fashioned car however, your car likely utilizes the latest high-tech fobs to open and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys contain special computer chips which need to be programmed in order to work with the car you own. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming, but it's best to have your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are well-versed in the specific vehicle you have, which can ensure it's done right.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob could be as high as $500, depending on whether it's smart key or remote-controlled key. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key you may want in case your fob is lost or stolen.
It used to be that losing your car key was a pain However, now it's an actual issue. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now take keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys come in various dimensions and shapes however the most expensive is one that comes with the transponder and mechanical key inside the same fob. This "smart key" features an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob, similar to an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to get lost or hidden in the pocket of a coat. These keys are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have a spare fob that can be used in your vehicle and could be cloned, consider trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or an independent locksmith and key company that offers programming for many vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges which could save you as much as $200 or more. Be sure to purchase a key and fob that's the same model, year and make as the original to ensure it can be programmed for your vehicle.