How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing your car keys is not a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the road.
Before you lose your key It is a good idea to make a backup. We have put together a guide on how much it costs to replace the car key.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big issue. You could simply purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. However, today's cars are much more technologically advanced and it is more expensive to replace a lost key.
The most affordable method to accomplish this is to get an auto locksmith. They usually can duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. However, this type of key isn't equipped with chips and will not be able to open 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 by done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, for instance a local locksmith or a car dealer service professional.
The cost of mechanical keys is low, but the programming chip in modern cars can cost more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key in your car and keep it safe.
There are five types of car keys available, so it's important to know the type you have before seeking help to replace it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. auto key replacement , but you should be able find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.
The next type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with embedded security microchips that sends a message to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a standard mechanical key, and it can only be copied with specific tools that only a locksmith or car dealer has access to. This can cost up to $500 or more based on the model and make.
Transponder Keys
Cars with transponder keys use a microchip inside of the key that communicates with your car. When the key is placed close to your car, or inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code which signals your car to start. This is a great feature as it wards off theft. However, it makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar requires both the right key and the transmitter in order to turn on your car and take it away.
Transponder keys cost slightly more than a regular key however, this is because it must be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be capable of programming a transponder key, but it is always best to ask your car dealership whether they are able to program it as well. They are the best option since they have the most experience in programming these keys, and they can provide you with a better price.
Many automotive manufacturers have their own unique anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it's essential to research all the key options prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You will be able to figure out which type of key will work with it and whether it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.
Some newer vehicles come with transponder password systems. They are a little more complicated as they require a special key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, since they employ rolling-code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key has been duplicated, it won't work with your vehicle.
Regardless of what type of key you have regardless of the type, it is essential that you do not attempt to open the door of your car yourself. This can cause alarms to insurance companies and cause many mechanics to refuse to help you out particularly if they notice evidence that the car has been tampered with or forced to open. This will make it extremely difficult to obtain replacement parts, so be sure to speak with an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much more difficult to lose or steal than a traditional key. The keys don't have a notch on the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that's cut to a certain depth along the key's face. When you look at the key from above it's easy to determine whether it's a fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to recognize also means that you can avoid being locked out if you happen to misplace your keys while at work or running around.
If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact an locksmith who has equipment for making these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store will not be able to provide you with the replacement key laser-cut as they lack the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.
Locksmiths use an apparatus that looks like a standard drill in order to cut the key's metal. This will remove the entire surface to the desired length. The unique key's code is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut according to your vehicle's specifications.
Laser-cut keys are different from a traditional transponder keys since they do not contain any electronics or chips that can be changed. They have to be destroyed and replaced by a new one. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive due to the full rebuild of the key.
Have at least one spare car key in your car just in case of. So, you'll be able to call the locksmith and cut and program the key for you so that you gain access to your vehicle again, without having to pay to have it tow-back at the dealership.
Fobs
If you do not own a classic car, the chances are your vehicle uses one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that allow you to open and start your vehicle without the need for a key. The keys contain computer chips which need to be programmed in order to work with the car you own. Certain locksmiths can perform this reprogramming, however it is generally better to have your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are familiar with the specific vehicle you have to ensure that the reprogramming is done right.
The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced can cost as much as $500, depending on the type of key you drive and whether it's remote-controlled or smart. This does not include the cost of a mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that the fob goes missing or is 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 modern cars have made keys so easy to use and strong that thieves can take keys. The advances in car key technologies have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.
These new keys come in different shapes and sizes, but the most expensive one is one that has the transponder and mechanical key in the same fob. The "smart" key features a spring-loaded shank which folds in the fob to form an e-switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or put in a pocket of a coat. They are generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealer.
If you have a spare key fob that works in your vehicle and could be duplicated, think about trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or an independent key and lock specialist which offers programming for a variety of automobiles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for much cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge which could save you around $200 or more. Make sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, model and model as your previous so it can be coded to work with your vehicle.