10 Ways To Create Your Replacement Car Keys Cost Empire
How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing keys to your car is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.
It is a good idea to buy an extra key before you lose yours. To make this easier we've put together a guide to how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big deal. You could buy an extra key and then use it in the ignition. However, modern cars are more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace keys that have been lost.
The cheapest method of doing this is to hire an auto locksmith. They'll usually be capable of copying a basic metal key and do so at a cost of $50 or less. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with an electronic chip, and therefore won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
This is because modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that need to be programmed to work correctly. This is only done by a professional who knows what they are doing, such as an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.
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. The best way to prevent this is to ensure that you always have a backup key, and that you keep it in a safe place.
There are five different types of car keys available, therefore it is important to identify the type you have before getting help with replacing it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged metal lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. These aren't common anymore, but you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for around $10.
The next kind of car key is a transponder key, which has an embedded security chip that sends an alert to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and allow the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and can only be done with specific tools that are only accessible to a locksmith or dealer in the car. The cost for this can be up to $500 or more, based on the model and make of your car.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their car. They use an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is inserted in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it transmits an encoded code that allows your car to begin. This is a great feature as it wards off theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car, as a thief would need both the key and the transmitter to turn it on and drive off with it.
The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is usually slightly more expensive than a conventional key, but only because it needs to be programmed as well. It is possible to program a key transponder by the majority of locksmiths, however you should always ask your dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best option as they have the best experience in programming these keys and will give you a better rate.
A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it is crucial to research the most important options before you purchase your next vehicle. You should be able find out which type of key is compatible with it and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with transponder password systems. These are a bit more complicated as they require a special key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, because they utilize rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key is cloned, it will not work with your vehicle.
It is crucial to not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the type of key. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they see indications that your car has been opened or damaged. This can make it very hard to get replacement parts, so be sure to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you own a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's more difficult to lose or be stolen than a traditional key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that is cut to a certain depth along the face of the key. This makes it very easy to distinguish between authentic and fake keys when you look at it from the top. They are easy to spot, so you won't get locked out of your home if your key gets lost while doing errands or working.
If you own an uncut laser key, you will need to contact a professional locksmith who has the right equipment to create these kinds of replacements. Most of the time, your local hardware store isn't able to create a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the machinery needed to cut and program these kinds of keys.
A locksmith will employ a machine that appears like a regular drill to cut the key's metal, which will be able to cut the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut according to your vehicle's specifications.
Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not have any electronic components or chips inside that can be replaced, which means they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a new key. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are expensive, since they require a total rebuild of the entire key.
It's recommended to keep at least one spare key in your possession in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. That way you'll be able call the locksmith and cut and program the key for you, so that you can have access to your car again, without having to pay to have it tow back by the dealership.
Fobs
You might not own an old classic vehicle, but your car probably utilizes the latest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys have special computer chips that need to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming but it is usually recommended to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the necessary tools.
Getting your car key fob replaced can cost up to $500, depending on the type of key you use and whether it's remote-controlled or smart. This doesn't include the cost of a mechanical backup key that you may need in the event your fob gets lost or stolen.
It used to be that losing your car key was a pain However, now it's a real problem. g28carkeys is because modern vehicles have made the keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now steal keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in car key technologies have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, however the one with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is the most expensive. The "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank that folds in the fob to form the switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or hidden into a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and could require the assistance of a dealer to replace.
If you have an additional fob that works with your vehicle and that can be copied to work in another vehicle, you might think about purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or a key and lock specialist who offers programming for various vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for much cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge and save yourself around $200 or more. Make sure you buy the fob and key that has the same year, model and model as your original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.