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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It is never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road in a hurry with Emergency Roadside Service.
It is a good plan to purchase an extra key before you lose yours. To make it easier we've created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big issue. You could just buy a spare key, and use it to turn on the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it's much more expensive to replace keys lost.
The most affordable method to accomplish this is to get an auto locksmith. They usually can duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. However, this type of key doesn't come with chips and will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.
Modern car keys have transponders, also known as chips, which must be programmed in order to function properly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they're doing, such as an auto locksmith in your area or a car dealership service professional.
The cost of having an electronic key copied is fairly low, but the programming of the chip in modern cars will usually cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to ensure that you always have a backup key and keep it in a safe place.
It's important to identify the type of car keys you have before seeking help. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged steel lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your car. They're not as common however you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for around $10.
The next type is a transponder car key. This key has embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and begin the engine. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be duplicated using specific tools that are available to a locksmith or car dealer. It can cost as high as $500 or more, depending on the car's model and make.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by vehicles to connect with their car. They incorporate an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is placed close to your car, or when it is inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to start. This feature is great because it deters theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car because a burglar will need both the key and transmitter to turn it on and drive off with it.
The cost of purchasing a new transponder keys is typically a little more expensive than a conventional key, but only because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by most locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your dealer if they can do it. This is because they usually have the most experience with these kinds of keys, and may be able to give you a more competitive price.
A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems. It is essential to conduct your research prior to buying your next car. You should be able to find out which type of key will work with it and whether it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.
Certain newer vehicles have transponder password systems. These are more complicated because they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, because they employ rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your keys were copied, it will not work in your car.
No matter what kind of key you have, it is crucial that you do not attempt to open the door of your vehicle yourself. This can cause alarms to insurance companies and cause many mechanics to refuse to help you out in the event of indications that your vehicle has been altered or opened. This can make it very hard to get replacement parts, so be sure to speak with an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you own a car with a laser-cut key, you'll notice that it's much harder to lose or steal than a traditional metal key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along the edge. Instead, they have a groove that's cut to a specific depth along the key's face. When you look at the key from above, it is easy to identify whether it's fake or not. They are easy to recognize, so you won't get locked out if you have your key lost while you're working or running errands.
If your key is laser-cut, you'll need to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment for making these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to provide you with the replacement key laser-cut because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.
A locksmith will employ a machine that appears like a standard drill to cut the metal of the key. This will remove the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The key's unique code will then be found from the VIN, and the key will be cut according to your vehicle's specifications.
Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not contain any chips or electronics inside them that could be replaced, so they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive due to the complete rebuild of the key.
Keep at least one spare car key in your possession in case of case. This way, you'll be able to contact the locksmith to cut it and program it for you, so that you'll gain access to your vehicle without having to pay to get it tow-back by the dealership.
Fobs
There's a chance that you don't have an old-fashioned car but your vehicle probably utilizes the latest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that have to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Fortunately, some locksmiths can assist you in this process, though it's usually best to have your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and have all the tools needed.
replacement keys for car of replacing your car key fob can be as high as $500, depending on whether it's a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key that you may want in case your fob is lost or stolen.
It used to be that losing your car key was a hassle However, now it's an actual issue. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal the keys.
The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the one that has both a transponder as well as mechanical keys is the most expensive. The "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank which folds in the fob to form a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or tucked into a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and could require the assistance of a dealer to replace.
If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be copied to work in a different vehicle, you might want to consider ordering a replacement aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a key and lock specialist that offers programming for many different vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for much less than a dealership charges which could save you as much as $200 or more. Just make sure the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, model and model as the original so that it can be programmed to work with your car.