How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the road.
When you lose your key It is an ideal idea to have a spare. To make it easier we've created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big issue. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it's much more costly to replace lost keys.
Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They are usually able to duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. However, this type of key doesn't come with an electronic chip, and therefore won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
This is due to the fact that modern car keys come with transponders or chips that have to be programmed in order to work correctly. This can only be 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.
The cost of mechanical keys is inexpensive, however the programming chip that is used in the latest cars will typically cost more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key in your car and keep it in a safe place.
There are five distinct types of car keys, so it's important to know which one you have before receiving assistance in replacing it. A classic, old-fashioned car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and then turned to turn on your car. These keys aren't as common however, you can find them at your local home improvement store for $10.
The next type of car key is the transponder key with an embedded security chip that sends an alert to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key, and is only possible with special tools that are only accessible to a locksmith or car dealer. The cost of this service can be as high as $500 or more, based on the make and model of your car.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by cars to connect with their car. They are equipped with an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is put in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it sends a code to signal your car to start. This feature is great because it deters theft. But, it also makes stealing your car much 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, however, it's because it needs to be programmed. Locksmiths are generally able to program a transponder key, but it is always best to ask your car dealership if they can do so as well. vehicle key replacement is because they often have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys and could be able to give you the most competitive price.
A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it is important to research the key options prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which kind of key will work with it and whether it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.
Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder. They are more complicated as they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, because they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that if your keys were copied, it will not work in your car.
It is essential that you don't attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics will not assist you if they notice signs that your vehicle was opened or tampered with. This could make it hard to get a replacement, so be certain to contact 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 metal key. The keys don't have a notch along the edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a particular depth along the face of the key. This makes it easy to tell the difference between authentic and fake keys when looking at it from above. The fact that they're so easy to identify also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out if you misplace your keys while working or doing errands.
If you have 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. The hardware store you visit will not be able to create an alternative key that is laser-cut, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.
A locksmith will employ a machine that looks very similar to a standard drill to mill the key's metal, which will remove the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique key's code is then extracted from the VIN and the key is cut to the specifications of your vehicle.
Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys don't have any electronic components or chips inside of them that can be replaced, which means they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. This is why laser-cut keys can be expensive, since they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.
It's a good idea to keep at least one spare key on hand in case you happen to lose your car key. This way you'll be able call the locksmith to cut and program the key for you so that you gain access to your vehicle without having to pay to get it towed back by the dealership.
Fobs
You might not own an old classic vehicle but your vehicle probably utilizes the latest high-tech fobs to unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that need to be programmed in order to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming, however it is usually best to let your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are familiar with your particular car and can ensure that it's done correctly.
The cost of getting your car's key fob changed can cost up to $500, depending on the type of key you drive and whether it's a smart or remote-controlled. This doesn't include cost of an electronic backup key that you may need in the event your fob is lost or stolen.
It used to be that losing your car key was a hassle However, now it's a real problem. That's because modern cars have made keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now take keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal the keys.
The new keys come in different sizes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that comes with an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key inside the same fob. car key replacement near me has a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob, similar to the switchblade, making it less likely to get lost or hidden in a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and could require the assistance of a dealership to replace.
If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and that can be copied to work in another vehicle, you may be interested in purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who can program many different vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob for an affordable price compared to what a dealership would charge, costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure you buy a fob and a key that has the same year, model and model as your original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.