How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It's never a good feeling to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the roads.
It is a good idea to buy an extra key before you lose yours. We have compiled a guide on how much it costs to replace keys for cars.
car key replacement , losing or losing the car key was not a big problem. You could just buy a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace lost keys.
The cheapest way to do this is to hire an auto locksmith. They'll usually be able to copy a basic metal key and do so for about $50 or less. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with chips and will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.
This is because modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that need to be programmed to work properly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who knows what they're doing, for instance the local locksmith or an expert from a dealership's service department.
The cost of mechanical keys is low, but the programming chip that is used in the latest cars will typically cost you more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it safe.
There are five different kinds of car keys, therefore it is important to identify which one you have prior to seeking help to replace it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your car. They're not as common, but you should be able find them at your local hardware store for around $10.
The next kind 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. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be duplicated using special tools that are accessible to a locksmith dealer in the car. It can cost as high as $500 or more, depending on the model and make.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize an embedded microchip in the key to connect with your car. When the key is placed into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it transmits an encoded code that allows your car to begin. This feature is great as it wards off 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 and drive off with it.
The cost of a new transponder keys is typically slightly more expensive than a standard key, but this is due to the fact that it needs to be programmed as well. Locksmiths are generally capable of programming a transponder key, but it is best to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to program it as well. This is because they usually have the most experience with these kinds of keys and could be able to provide you with a more competitive price.
Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems. It is important to do your research before purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which kind 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 as they require a particular key tool 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 even if the key is duplicated, it won't work with your car.
It is essential that you don't attempt to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the type of key. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they notice signs that your car has been forced open or tampered with. It is very difficult to obtain a new key, so contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you own a car that has a laser cut key, you'll find that it's much harder to lose or get stolen than a traditional metal key. The keys don't have a notch along the edge. Instead, they have a groove cut to a specific depth in the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to distinguish between a genuine and fake key when looking at it from the top. They are easy to identify and you won't be locked out of your home if your key gets lost while working or running errands.
If your key is a laser-cut one, you'll need to contact an locksmith who has equipment for making these kinds of replacements. Most of the time, your local hardware store isn't able to make a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the machinery required to cut and program these kinds of keys.
A locksmith uses an instrument that appears 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 unique key's code is then extracted from the VIN and the key is then cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.
Laser-cut keys are different from a regular transponder key because they do not have electronic chips or electronics that can be replaced. They have to be destroyed and replaced by a new one. This is why laser-cut keys are so expensive, as they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.
It's recommended to keep at least one spare key available in case you do accidentally lose your car key. This way you'll be able contact the locksmith to have it cut and programmed for you so that you'll gain access to your vehicle again without having to pay to have it tow-back at the dealership.
Fobs
If you don't own a classic car, the chances that your car is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Fortunately, some locksmiths can perform this reprogramming on your behalf but it's generally best to have your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and have all the necessary tools.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob can be as high as $500 depending on whether it is an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key that you may need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.
Losing your car key used to be an inconvenience. Now it's a serious issue. The reason is that modern cars have made the keys so easy and reliable that thieves are now able to steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal the keys.
The new keys are available in a variety of dimensions and shapes, but the one with a transponder as well as mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart key" comes with an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds into the fob, like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or hidden in the pocket of a coat. They're generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.
If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and can be duplicated to work in a different vehicle, you might be interested in purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a business like Amazon or a key and lock specialist who can program a variety of vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob at a much lower cost than what a dealership will charge, thereby costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, make and model as your previous to ensure it is programmed to work with your vehicle.