How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It's never a good feeling to lose your car keys. GEICO can help you get back on the road in a hurry by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
If you lose your keys it is recommended to have a spare. To make it easier we've created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge problem. You could buy a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. However, modern cars are more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace a lost key.
official website to do this is to hire an auto locksmith. They can usually copy a metal key for less than $50. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with chips and will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.
This is because modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that need to be programmed to function properly. This is only done by a professional who knows what they're doing, for instance an auto locksmith in your area or an auto dealership service professional.
The cost of a mechanical key is relatively affordable, however the programming chip in a modern car will usually cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to make sure you have a backup key and that you keep it somewhere secure.
It is important to determine the type of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. A more traditional, older car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your car. They're not as common however, you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for about $10.
The second type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and start the engine. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and is only possible with special tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith or car dealer. It could cost you $500 or more depending on your car's model and make.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by vehicles to connect with their car. They use microchips in the keys. When the key is placed close to your vehicle, or inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code which signals your car to begin. This is a great feature because it stops theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car, as a thief would need both the key and the transmitter to turn it off and take off with it.
The cost of purchasing a new transponder keys is typically a little more expensive than a standard key, but this is due to the fact that it must be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by many locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your dealer if they can do it. 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 automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it's essential to research all the key options prior to buying your next car. You should be able to find out which type of key is compatible with it and if it requires an unlocking device via a remote.
Certain newer vehicles have a transponder-based password system. They are a little more complicated because they require a particular key tool to program them. However they are also more secure as they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that if your key were duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.
It is important that you don't attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the type of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies. Many mechanics won't help you if they observe signs that your car has been forced open or tampered with. This can make it very hard to get a replacement, 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 harder to steal or lose than a traditional key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along the edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a particular 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. They are easy to identify, so you won't get locked out if you have your key lost while working or running errands.
If your key is a laser-cut one then you'll have to contact locksmiths that have equipment for making these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases your local hardware store will not be able to make a new laser-cut key because they don't have the machinery required to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.
A locksmith will use an instrument that resembles a standard drill in order to mill the key's metal. This will cut the entire surface to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut to your vehicle's specifications.
Laser-cut keys are not like traditional transponder keys since they do not have electronic chips or electronics which can be altered. They have to be destroyed and replaced with a new one. automotive car key replacement -cut keys are expensive since they require a full reconstruction of the key.
Have at least one spare car key in your possession in case of case. So you'll be able call the locksmith to have it cut and programmed for you so that you have access to your car again, without needing to pay to have it tow back to the dealership.
Fobs
Unless you own an old classic car, chances are your vehicle uses one of the latest high-tech fobs which allow you to open and start the car without a key. These keys have special computer chips that must be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming but it is usually recommended to let your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the necessary tools.
The cost of replacing your car key fob can be as high as $500 depending on whether it is a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that your key fob goes missing or stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car keys was a pain However, now it's a real problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern cars have made keys so easy to use and strong that thieves are able to take them. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in different dimensions and shapes, but the one that comes with a transponder as well as mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart key" features an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob, similar to an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to be lost or get tucked away in pockets like a coat. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the help of a dealership to replace.
If you have a spare key fob that is in your car and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a firm such as Amazon or an independent locksmith and key company that offers programming for many vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at a much lower cost than what a dealership will charge, which could save you $200 or more. Be sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, model and model as your previous so that it can be programmed to work with your vehicle.