What Makes The Replacement Car Keys Cost So Effective? During COVID-19
How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.
It is a good idea to purchase a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. To make it easier, we have put together a guide to how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not long ago, misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big deal. You could just buy a spare key, and use it to turn the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it is much more costly to replace keys lost.
The cheapest way to do this is to get an auto locksmith. They'll usually be able to copy a basic metal key for around $50 or less. This kind of key does not have chip and won't be able to unlock doors or start engines.
This is because modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only be done by a professional that knows what they are doing, such as a local locksmith or a car dealer professional in service.
The cost of mechanical keys is affordable, however the programming chip in the latest cars will typically cost you more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it in a safe place.
It's important to identify the type of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. An older, standard car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your vehicle. Keys like these aren't as popular however you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for about $10.
The next kind of car key is the transponder key, which has an embedded security chip that transmits an alert to the vehicle's computer system to open 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 accessible to a locksmith dealer of cars. This can cost up to $500 or more depending on your car's make and model.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their car. They incorporate an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is placed close to your vehicle or inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code which signals your car to begin. This is a great feature because it deters theft. However, it makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar requires both the right key and the transmitter in order to turn on your car and then drive off with it.
A transponder key costs a little bit more than a regular one, however, this is because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by many locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your dealer if they can do it. They are the best choice since they have the most knowledge of programming these keys and will give you a better rate.
A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms in place. This is why it is crucial to research the most important options before you purchase your next car. You will be able to figure out which type of key will work with it and whether it requires a remote to unlock it.
Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder password system. These are more complicated because they require specialized tools to program them. However they are also more secure since they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your key were copied, it will not work in your car.
No matter what kind of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital that you never try to open the door of your vehicle by yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics won't help you if they see signs that your car has been opened or altered. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a new key, so you should contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you own a car with a laser-cut key, you'll see that it's much harder to lose or be stolen than a conventional metal key. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edge of the blade. Instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a certain depth up the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from above, it is easy to determine whether it's fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to recognize also means that you can avoid getting locked out if you misplace your key while you're at work or doing for errands.
If you own keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to talk to an expert locksmith who has the right equipment to make these kinds of replacements. Most of the time, your local hardware store will not be able to create a new laser-cut key because they don't have the machinery required to cut and program these types of key fobs.
A locksmith will use a machine that looks very similar to a standard drill to cut the metal of the key. This will remove the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code will then be found from the VIN and the key will be cut to match the specifications of your car.
Laser-cut keys are different from a regular transponder key because they do not contain any electronics or chips which can be altered. They must be destroyed and replaced with an entirely new model. This is why laser-cut keys are so expensive, since they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.
Have at least one spare car key in your possession in case of the event of. Then, you can call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed, so you can be back in your vehicle without having pay for it to be towed back to the dealer.
Fobs
There's a chance that you don't have an old-fashioned car however, your car likely utilizes the latest high-tech fobs to unlock and start it without a traditional key. The keys contain computer chips which need to be programmed in order to function with the vehicle you own. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming but it is generally recommended to let your dealer do it. They have the right tools and are well-versed in your particular car and can ensure that it's done right.
The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced can cost as much as $500, depending on the kind of key you use and whether it's remote-controlled or smart. This doesn't include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key that you might wish to have in the event your key fob goes missing or stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car keys was a pain however, it's now an actual issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern automobiles have made keys so convenient and powerful that thieves are able to steal keys. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys come in various dimensions and shapes, but the most expensive is one that comes with an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart" key features a spring-loaded shank that folds in the fob to form a switchblade. automotive key replacement is less likely to get lost or tucked into a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.
If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be duplicated to work in another vehicle, you might want to consider ordering an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who offers programming for various vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for much less than a dealership charges and save yourself up to $200 or more. Be sure to purchase a fob and a key that's the identical model, year, and make as the original to ensure that it can be programmed for your vehicle.