How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It is never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road in a hurry by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
It is a good plan to order an extra key before you lose yours. We have compiled a guide on the price to replace the car key.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge issue. You could buy a spare key, and use it to turn the ignition. Today, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and it is much more costly to replace lost keys.
The cheapest way to do this is to get an auto locksmith. They can usually copy keys made of metal for less than $50. This kind of key does not have a chip, and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start engines.
Modern car keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to function properly. This is only done by a professional who knows what they are doing, for instance a local locksmith or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.
The cost of a mechanical key is relatively affordable, however the programming chip that is used in modern cars can cost you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to make sure you have a backup key, and that you keep it somewhere safe.
There are five kinds of car keys, so it's important to know which one you have prior to seeking help to replace it. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and turned to turn on your car. Keys like these aren't as popular, but you can find them at your local home improvement store for $10.
The next type of car key is the transponder with an embedded security chip that transmits an electronic signal to the car's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be duplicated using specialized tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith dealer in the car. The cost for this can be as high as $500 or more, based on the make and model of your car.
Transponder Keys
Cars with transponder keys use a microchip inside of the key that communicates with your car. When the key is inserted in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to start. This feature is beneficial as it wards off theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult because a burglar will require both the correct key and transmitter in order to turn your car on and drive away with it.
The cost of a brand new transponder key is usually higher than a traditional key, but only because it has to be programmed as well. Most locksmiths will be capable of programming keys that have transponders, but it is recommended to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to do this also. They are the best option as they have the best experience in programming these keys and will give you a better rate.
Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it is essential to research all the key options prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able find out which kind of key works with it and if it requires an unlocking device via a remote.
Some of the latest cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complicated 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're used. This means that if your keys were copied, it will not work in your car.
It is important to not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This could raise red flags with insurance companies and will make mechanics reluctant to assist you, especially if they see signs that the vehicle has been altered or opened. This can make it very hard to get replacement parts, so be sure to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's a lot harder to lose or get stolen than a traditional metal key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along the edge. Instead, they have a groove that's cut to a specific depth in the middle of the face of the key. This makes it very easy to distinguish between a genuine and fake key when looking at it from the top. The fact that they're so easy to recognize also means that you can avoid being locked out in the event that you lose your keys while working or doing around.
If your key is laser-cut, you'll need to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment for making these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases your local hardware store will not be able to make a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the equipment needed to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.
A locksmith will use an apparatus that looks like a standard drill in order to cut the metal of the key. This will cut the entire surface until it is the desired length. The key's unique code will be retrieved from the VIN, and the key will be cut to match the specifications of your vehicle.
Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys don't have any electronics or chips inside them that could be replaced, so they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. This is the reason why laser-cut keys can be expensive, since they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.
Keep at least one spare car key in your car just in the event of. You can then call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that you can get back into your vehicle without having pay for it to be tow back to the dealer.
Fobs
If you do not own a classic car, chances are your vehicle uses one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to unlock and start your car without a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming but it is usually best to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the tools needed.
The cost of getting your car's key fob changed can cost as high as $500, based on the type of key you drive and if it's smart or just remote-controlled. That's not even including the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you might wish to have in the event your fob is lost or stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car keys was a pain However, now it's an actual issue. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now take keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in technology for car keys have made it more difficult for thieves.
replacement key for car near me are available in different sizes and shapes, but the one that has both a transponder as well as a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart key" features a spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob, similar to a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or hidden in the pocket of a coat. They are generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the help of a dealer to replace.
If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and can be duplicated to work with another vehicle, you might be interested in purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob at less than what a dealership will charge, which could save you $200 or more. Just make sure the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, make and model as your previous so it can be coded to work with your vehicle.