20 Replacement Car Keys Cost Websites Taking The Internet By Storm
How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road in a hurry by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
It is a good idea to purchase a spare key before you lose yours. We have compiled a list on how much it costs to replace keys for cars.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big deal. You could just purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. However, today's cars are much more advanced in technology and it's more expensive to replace a lost key.
The cheapest method of doing this is to get an auto locksmith. They can usually copy a key made of metal for less than $50. However, this type of key doesn't have an electronic chip, and therefore will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.
Modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, which must be programmed in order to function correctly. This is only done by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, for instance an auto locksmith in your area or a car dealership service professional.
The cost of a mechanical key is relatively inexpensive, however the programming chip used in a modern car will usually cost more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key and store it safely.
It is important to determine the type of car key you have before seeking help. A standard, older car key is a double-edged metal lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. These keys aren't as common, but you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.
The next type of car key is a transponder key, which has an embedded security chip that sends a signal to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and allow the engine to start. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be done with specific tools that are only available to a locksmith or dealer in the car. The cost for this can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Cars with transponder keys use microchips inside the key to connect with your car. When the key is placed close to your vehicle, or placed in the ignition, it sends an electronic code which signals your car to start. This feature is great as it wards off theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car because a burglar will need both the key and transmitter to turn it off and take off with it.
A transponder key costs just a bit more than a regular key, but that's only because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by many locksmiths, but you should always ask your dealer about whether they can do it. This is because they often have the most experience with these kinds of keys and could be able to offer you the most competitive price.
Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. It is essential to conduct your research 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 a wireless remote to unlock it.
Certain newer vehicles have a transponder password system. They are a little more complex as they require a special key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, since they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key is cloned, it will not work with your vehicle.
Whatever type of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital that you do not attempt to open the door of your vehicle by yourself. This can raise red flags with insurance companies and make mechanics reluctant to assist you in the event of signs that the vehicle has been damaged or forced open. It will be very difficult to obtain a new key, so you should contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a car with a laser-cut key, you'll find that it's a lot harder to lose or get stolen than a conventional metal key. The keys don't have a notch along the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that is cut to a specific depth along the face of the key. When looking at the key from above it's easy to determine if it's a fake or not. The fact that they're easy to identify also means that you're less likely to risk getting locked out if you misplace your keys while working or running errands.
If you have a laser-cut key, then you will need to contact an expert locksmith with the equipment to create these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit isn't likely to make you an alternative key that is laser-cut, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.
Locksmiths use an apparatus that looks like a standard drill in order to cut the metal of the key. This will reduce the entire surface until it is the desired length. The key's unique code will then be extracted from the VIN and the key will be cut to match the specifications of your car.
In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys do not contain any chips or electronics inside them that could be replaced, which means they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a new key. This is why laser-cut keys can be expensive, as they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.
Keep 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'll have access to your car again, without having to pay to have it tow-back by the dealership.
Fobs
Unless you own an old classic car, chances that your car is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that allow you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a key. The keys contain computer chips which need to be programmed to function with the vehicle you own. Fortunately, auto car key replacement can assist you in this process but it's generally better to have your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the tools needed.
The cost of having your car's key fob replaced could cost up to $500, based on the kind of key you use and if it's remote-controlled or smart. This does not include the cost of an electronic backup key that you may want in case your fob is lost or stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car key was an inconvenience However, now it's a real problem. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so convenient and effective that thieves are now able to steal keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in technology for car keys have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, however the one that has both a transponder as well as a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob like the switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or put into a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have a spare fob that can be used in your vehicle and could be copied, you might want to try to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business such as Amazon or an independent key and lock specialist that can program your automobiles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for much less than what a dealer charges which could save you as much as $200 or more. Be sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, model and model as the original so it can be coded to work with your car.