How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road in a hurry by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
Before you lose your key it is a good idea to have a spare. We have compiled a guide on the cost to replace a car key.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big deal. You could simply buy a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. However, today's cars are much more technologically advanced and it is more expensive to replace a lost key.
Employing an auto locksmith is the most affordable alternative. They can usually copy a key made of metal for less than $50. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with a chip and will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.
Modern car keys have transponders, or chips, which must be programmed in order to function properly. This can only be done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer service professional.
The cost to have an electronic key copied is fairly low however, the programming of the chip in modern cars will usually cost more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key in your car and store it safely.
It is important to determine the type of car keys you have before seeking help. A more traditional, older car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder, and turned to turn on your car. These aren't common anymore, but you should be able find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.
The next kind of car key is a transponder key that has an embedded security chip that transmits an alert to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a basic mechanical key, and can only be copied using special tools that only a locksmith or dealer can access. The cost of this service can be up to $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Cars with transponder keys use microchips inside the key that communicates with your car. When automotive key replacement is placed in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it sends a code to signal your car to start. This is a great feature 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.
Transponder keys cost slightly more than a regular one, but that's only because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by most locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best option as they have the best expertise in programming these keys and will give you a better rate.
Many automotive manufacturers have their own distinct anti-theft mechanisms in place. It is essential to conduct your research before purchasing your next car. You will be able to figure out which kind of key will work with it and whether it requires a remote to unlock it.
Some newer cars come equipped with a transponder system for passwords. They are a little more complex as they require a particular key tool to program them. However they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key is duplicated, it won't work with your vehicle.
It is crucial to not attempt to break into your car by yourself, regardless of the type of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies and make mechanics reluctant to assist you particularly if they notice evidence that the vehicle has been damaged or forced to open. This can make it very difficult to obtain a replacement, so be sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you own a car that has a laser cut key, you'll find that it's a lot harder to lose or get stolen than a traditional key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove that is cut to a particular depth along the face of the key. When looking at the key from above, it is easy to identify whether it's a fake or not. The fact that they're easy to recognize also means that you can avoid being locked out if you happen to misplace your key while you're working or running 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 make you an alternative key that is laser-cut, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this kind of key fob.
A locksmith will use an instrument that resembles an ordinary drill to mill the key's metal. This will cut the entire surface until it is the desired length. The unique key's code is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.
Laser-cut keys are not like traditional transponder keys since they do not have electronic chips or electronics that can be replaced. They must be destroyed and replaced with the new model. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are expensive, since they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.
It's an excellent idea to have at least one spare key in your possession in the event that you accidentally lose your car keys. You can then call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so you can get back into your vehicle without having to pay for it to be towed to the dealer.
Fobs
There's a chance that you don't have an old classic car however, your car likely uses one of the newest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. There are locksmiths who can assist you in this process but it's generally recommended to let your dealer do it. automotive car key replacement are familiar with the vehicle and have all the tools needed.
auto key replacement of replacing your car key fob could be as high as $500, depending on whether it's an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. That's not even including the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key that you may need in the event that your key fob goes missing or stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car key was a hassle, but now it's a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves are able to steal keys. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the one that comes with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart" key comes with an elongated shank that is spring loaded and folds in the fob to form an e-switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or hidden in a pocket of a coat. These are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be duplicated to work in another vehicle, you might think about purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a business like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock that offers programming for many different vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for much cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge and save yourself around $200 or more. Be sure to purchase the fob and key that's the identical model, year, and make as your original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.