10 Replacement Car Keys Cost That Are Unexpected
How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of your car keys is never a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads.
Before you lose your key it is recommended to have a spare. To make this more convenient we have created a guide on 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 and put it in the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it is much more expensive to replace keys lost.
The most affordable method to accomplish this is to get an auto locksmith. They can usually copy a metal key 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 include transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only by done by a professional that knows what they are doing, like a local locksmith or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.
The cost of a mechanical key is relatively inexpensive, 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 keep it somewhere safe.
There are five distinct kinds of car keys, therefore it is important to identify which one you have prior to getting help with replacing it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. These keys aren't as common however, you can find them at your local home improvement store for about $10.
The next type is a transponder car key. This key has embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the car's computers to open the doors and begin the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a standard mechanical key, and can only be copied with special tools that only a locksmith or dealer in the car industry has access to. It could cost you $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 close to your car or placed in the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to start. car fob key replacement is great as it wards off theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult as a burglar will need both the correct key and transmitter in order to turn your car on and drive away with it.
A transponder key costs a little bit more than a regular one, but that's only because it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with the majority of locksmiths, however you should always inquire with your car dealer if they can do it. They are the best option since they have the most knowledge of programming these keys and will provide you with a better price.
Many automakers have their own unique 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 type of key it is compatible with and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Certain newer vehicles have a transponder password system. They are a little more complicated as they require a specific key tool to program them. However they are more secure because they employ rolling code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key has been cloned, it will not work with your vehicle.
Whatever type of key you have regardless of the type, it is essential to never attempt to break into your own car yourself. This could be a red flag to insurance companies and will cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to assist you in the event of evidence that the car has been tampered with or opened. This could make it difficult to obtain replacement parts, so be certain to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
A key that has been laser-cut is much harder to steal or lose than a metal key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that's cut to a specific depth along the key's face. This makes it very easy to differentiate between genuine and fake keys when you look at it from the top. The fact that they're so easy to recognize also means that you're not at risk of being locked out in the event that you happen to misplace your key while you're at work or running errands.
If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call locksmiths that have equipment to make these types of replacements. In most cases your local hardware store won't be able 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 will employ an apparatus that looks like the drill used in standard homes to mill the metal of the key. This will cut the entire surface to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.
In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys do not contain any electronic components or chips inside them that could be replaced, which means that they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a brand new key. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are expensive, since they require a total rebuild of the entire key.
Keep a spare car key in your possession just in case. This way you'll be able call the locksmith to cut and program the key for you so that you can have access to your car without having to pay to get it towed back by the dealership.
Fobs
If you don't own a classic car, chances that your car is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs which allow you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a key. These keys have special electronic chips that have to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Fortunately, some locksmiths can perform this reprogramming on your behalf, though it's usually best to have your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the tools needed.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob could be up to $500 based on whether it is an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. This does not include the cost of an electronic backup key that you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car key was a hassle, but now it's an actual issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern automobiles have made keys that useful and reliable that thieves are able to steal keys. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal the keys.
The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes however the most expensive one is one that comes with a transponder and a mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart key" has a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob, like an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to get lost or get tucked away in the pocket of a coat. These are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealer.
If you have a spare fob that is in your vehicle and could be cloned, consider trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a firm like Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key company that offers programming for many vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob at a much lower cost than what a dealership will charge, thereby costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure you buy the fob and key that has the identical model, year, and make as the original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.