How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of keys to your car is not a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the roads.
If you lose your keys it is recommended to have a spare made. We have compiled a guide on the cost to replace keys for cars.
Mechanical Keys
Not long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big deal. vehicle key replacement could simply purchase 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 that have been lost.
The cheapest way to do this is to hire an auto locksmith. They usually can duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. However, this kind of key doesn't come with chips and won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
This is because modern car keys are equipped with 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, such as the local locksmith or car dealer service professional.
The cost to have a mechanical key copied is fairly low however, the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to ensure that you always have a backup key and keep it somewhere secure.
It is important to determine the type of car keys you own before seeking assistance. A standard, older car key is a double-edged metal lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. Keys like these aren't as popular however you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for $10.
The next type is the transponder car key. It has embedded security microchips that sends a message to the car's computers to unlock the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a standard mechanical key, and it is only possible to copy it using specific tools that only a locksmith or a dealer can access. It can cost as high as $500 or more, depending on the car's make and model.
Transponder Keys
Cars with transponder keys use microchips inside the key to connect with your car. When the key is placed in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it sends an encoded code that allows your car to start. This is a great feature to have since it helps to prevent theft. But, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult since a thief will need both the correct key and the transmitter to start your car and then drive off with it.
A transponder key is just a bit more than a regular key, however, this is because it has to be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be competent to program a transponder key, but it is always best to ask your car dealership whether they are able to do this also. They are the best choice as they have the best knowledge of programming these keys and will offer you a better price.
Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms in place. This is why it is essential to research all the key options before you purchase your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which type of key it is compatible with and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Certain newer cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complicated because they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, because they utilize rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key has been cloned, it will not work with your car.
Whatever type of key you've got regardless of the type, it is essential to never attempt to open the door of your vehicle yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they notice indications that your car has been opened or damaged. This will make it extremely hard to get replacement parts, so be sure to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a vehicle with a laser-cut key, you'll find that it's more difficult to lose or be stolen than a conventional metal key. These keys do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they have a groove cut to a certain depth along the key's face. When you look at the key from the top, it is easy to tell whether it's a fake or not. The fact that they're easy to identify also means that you're not at risk of getting locked out if you happen to misplace your keys while at work or doing for errands.
If you own an uncut laser key, you will need to contact an expert locksmith who has the right equipment to create these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store isn't likely to make you a laser-cut replacement key, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this kind of key fob.
A locksmith will employ an apparatus that resembles an ordinary drill to mill the metal of the key. This will cut the entire surface to the desired length. The unique key's code is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is cut to your vehicle's specifications.
Laser-cut keys are not like traditional transponder keys since they do not have electronics or chips that can be replaced. They have to be destroyed and replaced by the new model. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive due to the complete rebuild of the key.
Keep at least one spare car key in your possession just in case of. So you'll be able call the locksmith and cut and program the key for you so that you'll have access to your car again without having to pay to get it tow back by the dealership.
Fobs
Unless you own an old 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. replacement key for car near me have special computer chips that need to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming, but it's better to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the necessary tools.
The cost of having your car's key fob changed can cost as much as $500, based on the type of key you drive and if it's remote-controlled or smart. This doesn't include the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you might want to have in case your fob gets lost or stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car keys was a hassle, but now it's a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys that useful and reliable that thieves are able to take keys. The advancements in the technology of car keys have made it harder for thieves.
The new keys are available in different dimensions and shapes, but the one with transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart" key has an elongated shank that is spring loaded and folds into the fob like a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or put in a pocket of a coat. They are 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 copied to work in a different vehicle, you might want to consider ordering a replacement aftermarket from a business like Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob for less than what a dealer would charge, which could save you $200 or more. Be sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as your original so that it can be programmed to work with your vehicle.