How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of keys to your car is not a pleasant experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road quickly with Emergency Roadside Service.
It is a good plan to buy a spare key before you lose yours. To make this easier we have put together a guide to the cost of replacement car Keys,
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Mechanical Keys
It wasn't long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big deal. You could purchase an extra key and then use it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it's more expensive to replace keys lost.
An auto locksmith can be the cheapest option. They are usually capable of copying a basic metal key for around $50 or less. This type of key does not have a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start an engine.
Modern car keys include transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to function properly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they are doing, for instance a local locksmith or a car dealer service professional.
The cost to get an electronic key copied is relatively cheap however programming the chip used in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to make sure you always have a backup key, and that you keep it somewhere secure.
It's important to identify the type of car keys you have before contacting a locksmith. A standard, older car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your car. These keys aren't as common however, you should be able find them at your local hardware store for about $10.
The next type is a transponder car key. This key has embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the car's computers to open the doors and start the engine. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key and can only be done with specialized tools that are only accessible to a locksmith dealer in the car. The cost for this can be up to $500 or more, based on the model and make of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by automobiles to connect with their car. They use a microchip in the key. When the key is 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 to have as it discourages theft. However, it also makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar will require both the correct key and the transmitter in order to start your car and drive away with it.
The cost of a brand new transponder key is usually higher than a traditional key, but that is because it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with most locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best choice as they have the best expertise in programming these keys and will offer you a better price.
A lot of automakers have their own distinct anti-theft strategies in place. It is important to do your research prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able find out which type of key works with it and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder password system. They are a little more complex as they require a particular key tool to program them. However they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that even if the key is cloned, it will not work with your vehicle.
It is essential that you do not try to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This can cause alarms to insurance companies and cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help you out in the event of indications that your vehicle has been altered or forced to open. This can make it very difficult to obtain replacement parts, so be sure to speak with an expert Mesa
mobile replacement car keys auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
You'll find a laser-cut key is much harder to lose or steal than a metal key. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edges of the blade. Instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a set depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to tell the difference between a genuine and fake key when you look at it from above. They are easy to recognize and will not get locked out if you have your key lost while doing errands or working.
If you own keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to talk to an expert locksmith with the equipment to create these kinds of replacements. Most of the time your local hardware store isn't able to create a new laser-cut key because they don't have the tools needed to cut and program these types of keys.
A locksmith uses an instrument that appears like a regular drill to mill the metal of the key. This will cut off the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code can be extracted from the VIN, and the key will then be cut to match your vehicle's specifications.
Laser-cut keys are different from a traditional transponder keys since they don't contain electronic chips or electronics that can be changed. They must be destroyed and replaced with the new model. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive because they require a complete rebuild of the key.
Have at least one spare car key in your car just in case. This way you'll be able call the locksmith and cut it and program it for you so that you'll gain access to your vehicle again, without needing to pay to have it towed back at the dealership.
Fobs
If you do not own a classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs which allow you to open and start the vehicle without the need for a key. These keys come with electronic chips that have to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming for you 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 getting your car's key fob changed can cost as high as $500, depending on the type of key you use and if it's a smart or remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key that you might want to have in case your fob is lost or stolen.
It used to be that losing your car keys was a pain however, it's now a real problem. This is because modern vehicles have made keys so easy and reliable that thieves are now able to steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal them.
The new keys are available in different shapes and sizes, but the most expensive one is one that comes with the transponder and mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart key" comes with an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds into the fob like an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to get lost or hidden in the pocket of a coat. These are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have a spare fob that works in your car and can be duplicated, think about trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business such as Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key company that offers programming for many automobiles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for much less than a dealership charges and save yourself as much as $200 or more. Be sure to purchase a fob and a key that has the same model, year and make as your original to ensure it can be programmed to your vehicle.