What Is Replacement Car Keys Cost And How To Utilize It?
How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road fast by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
Before you lose your key it is an ideal idea to have a spare made. key replacement car have put together a guide on how much it costs to replace the car key.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge problem. You could purchase a spare and simply use it in the ignition. However, modern cars are more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace a lost key.
The cheapest method of doing this is to get an auto locksmith. They will usually be able to copy a basic metal key and do so for about $50 or less. However, this type of key isn't equipped with chips and won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
Modern car keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to function properly. This is only done by a professional who knows what they are doing, such as the local locksmith or car dealer service professional.
The cost of a mechanical key is relatively affordable, however the programming chip in modern cars can cost more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key and keep it safe.
It's crucial to know the type of car keys you have before contacting a locksmith. An older, standard car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your vehicle. These keys aren't as common, but you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for about $10.
The next type of car key is a transponder key that has an embedded security chip that sends a signal to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be done with specific tools that are accessible to a locksmith or dealer in the car. The cost for this could be as high as $500 or more, based on the model and make of your car.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their car. They incorporate microchips in the keys. When the key is placed into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it sends a code to signal your car to start. This is a great feature to have as it deters theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar will need both the correct key and transmitter to turn on your car and then drive off with it.
The cost of a new transponder keys is typically higher than a conventional key, but this is due to the fact that it needs to be programmed as well. It is possible to program a key transponder by many locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your car dealer if they can do it. They are the best choice as they have the best experience in programming these keys and will offer you a better price.
Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it's important to research the key options prior to buying your next car. You should be able to find out which kind of key it is compatible with and whether it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.
Certain newer cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are a bit more complicated because they require a particular key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, as they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that if your keys were duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.
It is crucial to not attempt to break into your car on your own, no matter the type of key. This can raise red flags with insurance companies and cause many mechanics to refuse to assist you particularly if they notice signs that the vehicle has been damaged or opened. 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
You'll find a laser-cut key is much harder to steal or lose 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 which cuts to a specific depth across the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from above, it is easy to identify whether it's a fake or not. The fact that they're easy to spot also means that you're less likely to risk getting locked out if you misplace your key while you're at work or doing around.
If your key is a laser-cut one then you'll have to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment to make these types of replacements. In most cases, your local hardware store won't be able make a new laser-cut key because they don't have the machinery required to cut and program these kinds of keys.
A locksmith will employ a machine that appears similar to a standard drill to mill the key's metal, which will be able to cut the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.
Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys don't have any electronics or chips inside that can be replaced, which means that they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a new key. This is why laser-cut keys are so expensive, as they require a total rebuild of the entire key.
Keep a spare car key in your possession just in case. Then, you can call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed, so you can be back in your vehicle without having pay for it to be tow back to the dealer.
Fobs
You might not own an old classic vehicle however, your car likely uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to open and start it without a traditional key. These keys come with computer chips that must be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able to assist you in this process, though it's usually best to have your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are knowledgeable about your specific car to ensure that the reprogramming is done correctly.
The cost of having your car's key fob changed can cost as much as $500, depending on the kind of key you use and whether it's remote-controlled or smart. This does not include the cost of a mechanical backup key that you may want in case the fob goes missing or is stolen.
Losing your car key was once a hassle. It's now a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys that easy to use and strong that thieves can take keys. 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, however the one that has both 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 up into the fob like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or hidden in the pocket of a coat. These are typically pricier than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the help of a dealership to replace.
If you have an additional fob that works with your vehicle and can be duplicated to work with another vehicle, you might be interested in purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock that offers programming for various vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for less than what a dealer charges, saving yourself around $200 or more. Be sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as your previous so that it can be programmed to work with your vehicle.