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 fast by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
Before you lose your key It is recommended to make a backup. We have compiled a list on how much it costs to replace the car key.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge deal. You could purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. However, today's cars are more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace a lost key.
Hiring an auto locksmith is the cheapest alternative. They usually can duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. This type of key doesn't have chip and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start an engine.
This is because modern automobile keys are equipped with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed to function correctly. This can only be done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, for instance the local locksmith or car dealer professional in service.
The cost of mechanical keys is low, but the programming chip in a modern car will usually cost you more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key and keep it in a safe place.
There are five different types of car keys available, so it's crucial to know the type you have before seeking help to replace it. A more traditional, older car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder and then turned to turn on your car. auto car key replacement , you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for about $10.
The next type is a transponder car key. This key has embedded security microchips that sends a message to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be done with specialized tools that are only accessible to a locksmith or car dealer. This can cost up to $500 or more based on your car's model and make.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their vehicle. They use microchips in the keys. When the key is near to your vehicle, or when it is inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to start. This feature is great as it wards off theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car, because a burglar will need both the key and transmitter to turn it on before they could take off with it.
A transponder key costs slightly more than a regular one, however, this is because it must be programmed. Most locksmiths will be competent to program a transponder key, but it is best to ask your dealership if they can do so as well. This is because they often have the most experience with these kinds of keys and could be able to give you the most competitive price.
Many automakers have their own unique anti-theft systems in place. This is why it is essential to research all the key options before you purchase your next car. You should be able to figure out which kind of key is compatible with it and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Certain newer vehicles have transponder password systems. These are more complex as they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, since they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if the key is cloned, it will not work with your car.
It is important that you don't attempt to break into your car on your own, no matter the type of key. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will refuse to assist you if they see signs that your vehicle was opened or altered. This can make it very difficult to obtain replacement parts, so be certain to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a car that has a laser cut key, you'll see that it's a lot harder to lose or be stolen than a traditional metal key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove that is cut to a specific depth on the face of the key. This makes it easy to tell the difference between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from the top. The fact that they're so easy to identify also means that you can avoid being locked out if you misplace your keys while at work or doing errands.
If your key is a laser-cut one then you'll have to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment for making these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit isn't likely to create a laser-cut replacement key, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this kind of key fob.
A locksmith will employ an apparatus that resembles an ordinary drill to cut the key's metal. This will remove the entire surface until it is the desired length. The key's unique code will be found from the VIN, and the key will be cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.
Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not contain any electronic components or chips inside them that could be replaced, which means they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys are expensive because they require a complete rebuild of the key.
It's recommended to keep at least one spare key available in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. So, you'll be able to contact the locksmith to cut and program the key for you, so that you have access to your car without having to pay to get it tow back to the dealership.
Fobs
If you do not own a classic car, chances that your car is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that allow you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a key. These keys contain special computer chips that must be programmed in order to function with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming but it's best to let your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are well-versed in your particular car to ensure that the reprogramming is done correctly.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob can be as high as $500, depending on whether it is smart key or remote-controlled key. That doesn't include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key that you might want to have in case your fob is lost or stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car keys was a hassle, but now it's an actual issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern cars have made keys so convenient and powerful that thieves can steal them. The advancements in car key technologies have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.
These new keys come in different dimensions and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that has the transponder and mechanical key within the same fob. The "smart" key features a spring-loaded shank which folds in the fob to form a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or tucked into a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the help of a dealer to replace.
If you have a spare fob that works in your car and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a firm like Amazon or an independent key and lock specialist that can program your vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge and save yourself around $200 or more. Be sure to purchase the fob and key that has the same year, model and make as your original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.