5 Replacement Car Keys Cost Lessons From The Pros
How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It is never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO can help you get back on the road quickly by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
It is a good idea to buy a spare key before you lose yours. We have compiled a list on how much it costs to replace a car key.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, losing or losing the car key was not a big deal. You could just purchase a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace keys lost.
An auto locksmith can be the most affordable option. They'll usually be capable of copying a standard metal key for around $50 or less. This type of key isn't equipped with chip and won't be able to unlock doors or start engines.
This is due to the fact that modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed in order to work correctly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, such as a local locksmith or even a car dealership service professional.
The cost of mechanical keys is inexpensive, however the programming chip that is 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's important to identify the type of car keys you have before seeking help. An older, standard car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and then turned to start your car. Keys like these aren't as popular, but you can find them at your local home improvement store for about $10.
The next type is a transponder car key. It has embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the car's computers to open the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a basic mechanical key, and is only possible to copy it using special tools that only a locksmith or a car dealer has access to. It could cost you $500 or more depending on your car's make and model.
Transponder Keys
Cars with transponder keys use an embedded microchip in the key to connect with your car. When the key is inserted in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is a great feature because it stops 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 before they could take off with it.
The cost of a brand new transponder keys is typically higher than a traditional key, but only because it has to be programmed as well. It is possible to program a transponder key by many locksmiths, but you should always ask your dealer if they can do it. They are the best option since they have the most expertise in programming these keys and will provide you with a better price.
A lot of automakers have their own unique anti-theft systems in place. This is why it's essential to research all the key options prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which kind of key works with it and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Some newer vehicles come with transponder password systems. They are a little more complicated because they require a particular key tool to program them. However, they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they're used. This means that if your keys were cloned it would not work in your car.
Whatever type of key you've got, it is crucial to never attempt to open the door of your vehicle by yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they observe signs that your car was opened or tampered with. It is very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so make sure you contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll see that it's much harder to lose or steal than a traditional metal key. These keys have no notches cut along the edge of the blade. Instead there's a winding groove that cuts to a set depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from above it's easy to determine if it's a fake or not. They are easy to recognize, so you won't get locked out if your key is lost while you're working or running errands.
If your key is a laser-cut one, you'll need to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment to make these types 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 machinery needed to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.
A locksmith will employ a machine that looks very similar to a standard drill to mill the metal of the key, which will remove the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code can be extracted from the VIN and the key will be cut according to your vehicle's specifications.
Laser-cut keys are different from a regular transponder key because they do not contain any electronic chips or electronics that can be changed. They must be destroyed and replaced by a new one. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive since they require a full reconstruction of the key.
It's always an excellent idea to have at least one spare key in your possession in the event that you accidentally lose your car key. Then, you can call an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that you can reenter your car without having to pay for it to be towed back to the dealer.
Fobs
You might not have an old classic car however, your car likely uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to open 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 the car you own. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming, but it is generally recommended to let your dealer handle it. They have the necessary tools and are knowledgeable about the specific vehicle you have and can ensure that it's done right.
The cost of having your car's key fob changed can cost up to $500, depending on the type of key you drive and if it's smart or just remote-controlled. That doesn't include the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you may wish to have in the event your fob is lost or stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car key was an inconvenience however, it's now a real problem. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now take keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. replacements car key in car key technologies have made it harder for thieves.
These new keys come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but the most expensive one is one that has the transponder and mechanical key in the same fob. The "smart" key comes with a spring-loaded shank that folds in the fob to form a 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 could need to be replaced by a dealer.
If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be cloned to work in another vehicle, you may be interested in purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a company such as Amazon or a key and lock specialist that offers programming for many different vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob for an affordable price compared to what a dealer would charge, which could save you $200 or more. Be sure to purchase the fob and key that is the identical model, year, and make as the original to ensure it can be programmed to your vehicle.