Why Replacement Car Keys Cost Is Right For You
How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing your car keys is never a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads.
When you lose your key it is recommended to have a spare. To make it easier, we have created a list of the cost of replacement car keys. cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big problem. You could just purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it is much more costly to replace keys that have been lost.
Employing an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They are usually able to duplicate a metal key for less than $50. This kind of key does not have a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start an engine.
Modern car keys include transponders, also known as chips, that must be programmed to work properly. This can only be done by a professional who understands what they're doing, for instance a local locksmith or even a car dealership service professional.
The cost to get a mechanical key copied is fairly low, but the programming of the chip in modern cars will typically run you more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key in your car and keep it in a safe place.
It's important to identify the kind of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. A standard, old-fashioned 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 can find them at your local home improvement store for $10.
The second type of car key is the transponder key, which has an embedded security chip that transmits an electronic signal to the car'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 one and is only possible with specialized tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith dealer in the car. It could cost you $500 or more depending on your car's model and make.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their car. They incorporate a microchip in the key. When the key is put into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it transmits a code to signal your car to begin. This is a great feature to have since 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 take off with it.
The cost of a brand new transponder key is typically slightly more expensive than a traditional key, but that is because it must be programmed as well. It is possible to program a key transponder by most locksmiths, but you should always ask your dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best choice since they have the most knowledge of programming these keys and will offer you a better price.
A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft strategies in place. It is important to do your research prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to figure out which type of key it is compatible with and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.
Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with transponder password systems. These are more complex as they require specialized tools to program them. However they are also more secure because they employ rolling code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your key was copied, it will not work in your car.
It is essential that you do not try to break into your car on your own, no matter the kind of key. vehicle key replacement could be a red flag to insurance companies and will make mechanics reluctant to help particularly if they notice signs that the vehicle has been damaged or forced to open. This will make it extremely difficult to obtain replacement parts, so be sure to speak with an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
A key that has been laser-cut is much more difficult to steal or lose than a 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 in the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from the top it's easy to identify whether it's fake or not. They are easy to identify, so you won't get locked out of your home if your key gets lost while you're doing errands or working.
If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call an locksmith who has equipment for these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store isn't likely to create the replacement key laser-cut as they lack the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.
A locksmith will use an apparatus that resembles the drill used in standard homes to cut the key's metal. This will cut the entire surface until it is the desired length. The key's unique code will be extracted from the VIN, and the key will then 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 electronic components 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, as they require a total rebuild of the entire key.
It's recommended to keep at least one spare key available in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. Then, you can call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so you can be back in your car without having to pay for it to be towed back to the dealer.
Fobs
Unless you own an old classic car, chances are your vehicle uses one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start the car without having a key. The keys contain computer chips that must be programmed in order to function with the vehicle you own. Fortunately, some locksmiths can perform this reprogramming on your behalf but it's generally recommended to let your dealer handle it. They have the necessary tools and are familiar with your particular car to ensure that the reprogramming is done right.
The cost of having your car's key fob replaced could cost as high as $500, depending on the type of key you drive and if it's remote-controlled or smart. This doesn't include the cost of a mechanical backup key you may want in case the fob goes missing or is stolen.
It used to be that losing your car key was a pain however, it's now a real problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys that easy to use and strong that thieves are able to steal them. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal the keys.
The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the one that comes with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart key" comes with an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds into the fob, similar to a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or hidden in the pocket of a coat. They are generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be duplicated to work in another vehicle, you might want to consider ordering a replacement aftermarket from a company such as Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who can program a variety of vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for much less than a dealership charges, saving yourself as much as $200 or more. Be sure to purchase the fob and key that has the same model, year and model as your original to ensure it can be programmed for your vehicle.