How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
auto car key replacement of keys to your car is not a pleasant experience. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road quickly with Emergency Roadside Service.
It is a good plan to buy a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. We have compiled a list on the price to replace keys for cars.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big problem. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more technologically advanced and it is much more costly to replace keys lost.
The most affordable method to accomplish this is to employ an auto locksmith. They can usually copy a metal key for less than $50. This type of key doesn't have chip and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start an engine.
This is because modern automobile keys come with transponders or chips that have to be programmed in order to work properly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who knows what they're doing, like an auto locksmith in your area or a car dealership service professional.
The cost of having a mechanical key copied is relatively low, but the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to make sure you have a backup key and keep it somewhere secure.
It's important to identify the kind of car key you own before seeking assistance. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your car. They're not as common however, you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.
The next type is the transponder car key. This key has embedded security microchips which sends a signal to the computer in the vehicle to open the doors and start the engine. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and is only possible with special tools that are accessible to a locksmith car dealer. The cost for this could be up to $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your car.
Transponder Keys
Cars with transponder keys use an embedded microchip in the key to communicate with your car. When the key is near to your car, or inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that tells your car to begin. This is an excellent feature to have because it deters theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car, because a burglar will need both the key and the transmitter to turn it off and take off with it.
The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is usually higher than a standard key, but this is due to the fact that it must be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by most locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your car dealer if they can do it. This is because they typically have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys and could be able to provide you with the most competitive price.
Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems. It is crucial to conduct your research prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which kind of key it is compatible with and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Some newer cars come equipped with a transponder system for passwords. They are more complicated as they require special tools to program them. However, they are more secure because they employ rolling code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that if your key were duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.
It is important to not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This can be a red flag to insurance companies and cause many mechanics to refuse to help you out in the event of indications that your car has been tampered with or forced to open. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a replacement key, so contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you own a car that has a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's much harder to lose or get stolen than a traditional metal key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they have a groove that's cut to a particular depth in the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to distinguish between authentic and fake keys when you look at it from above. They are easy to spot, so you won't get locked out of your home if your key gets lost while doing errands or working.
If your key is laser-cut you'll need to call an locksmith who has equipment for making these kinds of replacements. In most cases, your local hardware store will not be able to create a new laser-cut key because they don't have the equipment needed to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.
A locksmith will use a machine that appears similar to a standard drill to cut the metal of the key, which will be able to cut the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The unique key's code is then extracted from the VIN and the key is then cut to the specifications of your vehicle.
Laser-cut keys are not like traditional transponder keys since they do not have electronic components or chips that can be changed. They have to be destroyed and replaced with a new one. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive since they require a full reconstruction of the key.
It's a good idea to keep at least one spare key in your possession in the event that you accidentally lose your car key. You can then contact an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed, so you can be back in your vehicle without having pay for it to be towed to the dealer.
Fobs
If you do not own a classic car, chances that your car is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to unlock and start the car without having a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that need to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming on your behalf but it's generally better to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the necessary tools.
The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced can cost as much 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 that you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car keys was an inconvenience, but now it's an actual issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys that easy to use and strong that thieves are able to take keys. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys come in a variety of dimensions and shapes however the most expensive is one that has a transponder and a mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart" key comes with a spring-loaded shank which folds in the fob to form the switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or tucked in a pocket of a coat. These keys are usually more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have a spare fob that can be used in your vehicle and could be copied, you might want to try to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a firm like Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key company which offers programming for a variety of automobiles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge and save yourself as much as $200 or more. Make sure you purchase the fob and key that has the same model, year and model as your original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.