How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It's never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO can help you get back on the road in a hurry by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
When you lose your key it is recommended to have a spare made. To make this easier we have put together a guide to the cost of replacement car keys. cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, losing or losing the car key was not a big deal. You could purchase an extra key and then use it in the ignition. However, today's cars are much more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace the key that was lost.
The cheapest way to do this is to hire an auto locksmith. They can usually copy keys made of metal for less than $50. However, this type of key isn't equipped with chips and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
Modern car keys have transponders, also known as chips, that need to be programmed correctly. This is only done by a professional who understands what they're doing, for instance an auto locksmith in your area or an auto dealership service professional.
The cost to get a mechanical key copied is relatively cheap, but the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key on hand and store it safely.
It is important to determine the kind of car key you own before seeking assistance. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged steel lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. They're not as common however, you should be able find them at your local hardware store for about $10.
The next kind of car key is the transponder key with an embedded security chip that sends an electronic signal to the car's computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and is only possible with special tools that are accessible to a locksmith or dealer in the car. The cost for this can be as high as $500 or more, based on the model and make of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys have microchips inside the key to connect with your car. When the key is placed in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is a great feature because it deters theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult since a thief will need both the correct key and transmitter in order to turn your car on and drive away with it.
A transponder key costs just a bit more than a regular one, however, this is because it needs to be programmed. locksmith car key replacement are generally competent to program the transponder key, however it is recommended to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to do this as well. They are the best option since they have the most expertise in programming these keys and can give you a better rate.
Many automotive manufacturers have their own anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it is essential to research all the key options prior to purchasing 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.
Some of the latest cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complicated as they require a particular key tool to program them. However they are more secure because they employ rolling code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that even if the key is copied, it will not work with your vehicle.
Regardless of what type of key you have regardless of the type, it is essential to never attempt to break into your own car yourself. This can cause alarms to insurance companies and cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to assist you in the event of indications that your vehicle has been damaged or forced open. This could make it difficult to obtain an exchange, so make certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much harder to take or lose than a traditional key. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edges of the blade. Instead there's a winding groove that cuts to a certain depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from the top it's easy to identify if it's a fake or not. They are easy to recognize, so you won't get locked out if you have your key lost while you're doing errands or working.
If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to call a locksmith professional with the equipment to create these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases your local hardware store isn't able to make an original laser-cut key since they don't have the tools required to cut and program these types of key fobs.
A locksmith uses an instrument that appears like a standard drill to cut the metal of the key. This will remove the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The unique code of the key is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut according 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 that can be replaced, so they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys are expensive because they require a full reconstruction of the key.
It's recommended to keep at least one spare key in your possession in case you do accidentally lose your car key. So, you'll be able to contact the locksmith to cut it and program it for you so that you'll have access to your car again without needing to pay to have it towed back by the dealership.
locksmith car key replacement
If you don't own a classic car, chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start your car without a key. These keys contain special computer chips which need to be programmed to work with the car you own. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming but it's recommended to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the tools needed.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob could be as high as $500, depending on whether it's a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of an electronic backup key that you may need in the event your fob is lost or stolen.
Losing your car key used to be an inconvenience. Now, it's a huge problem. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal them.
The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, but the one with a transponder as well as mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart" key features an elongated shank that is spring loaded and folds in the fob to form a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or tucked in a coat pocket. These are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be duplicated to work in a different vehicle, you may want to consider ordering a replacement aftermarket from a business like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who offers programming for many different vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob at a much lower cost than the price a dealership will charge, saving up to $200 or more. Make sure you buy the fob and key that's the same year, model and make as your original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.