How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It's never a good feeling to lose your car key fob replacement keys. GEICO can help you get back on the road quickly by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
When you lose your key it is an ideal idea to have a spare. We have compiled a list on the price to replace the car key.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big issue. You could simply buy a spare key, and use it to turn on the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more advanced in technology, and it is much more costly to replace keys lost.
The cheapest way to do this is to get an auto locksmith. They can usually copy keys made of metal for less than $50. This kind of key doesn't have a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start an engine.
Modern car keys have transponders, also known as chips, that need to be programmed to work properly. This is only done by a professional who understands what they're doing, like the local locksmith or an auto dealership service professional.
The cost of a mechanical key is relatively low, but the programming chip that is used in modern cars can cost more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key and keep it safe.
There are five distinct types of car keys, so it's important to know which one you have before seeking help to replace it. An older, standard car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your vehicle. Keys like these aren't as popular however, they are available at your local home improvement store for about $10.
The next kind of car key is the transponder key, which has an embedded security chip that transmits an alert to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key and is only possible with special tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith or car dealer. The cost for this can be up to $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 are equipped with an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is inserted into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it sends a code to signal your car to begin. This is a great feature because it deters theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car, as a thief would need both the key and transmitter to turn it on and drive off with it.
The cost of a new transponder key is usually a little more expensive than a conventional key, but this is due to the fact that it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by many locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your dealer about whether they can do it. They are the best choice as they have the best expertise in programming these keys and will provide you with a better price.
A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. It is important to do your research before purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to figure out which type of key is compatible with it and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Some of the latest cars keys replacement are equipped with a password transponder. These are more complex as they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, since they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key has been duplicated, it won't work with your vehicle.
Whatever type of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital that you never try to open the door of your vehicle by yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies and will make mechanics reluctant to help you out, especially if they see evidence that the vehicle has been altered or forced open. This will make it extremely hard to get an exchange, so make certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
A key that has been laser-cut is much harder to take or lose than a traditional key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a certain depth in the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from above, it is easy to determine 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 working or doing around.
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 the hardware store you visit isn't able to make you an original laser-cut key since they don't have the equipment required to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.
Locksmiths use an instrument that resembles the drill used in standard homes to mill the key's metal. This will cut the entire surface until it is the desired length. The key's unique code will be retrieved from the VIN and the key will be cut to match the specifications of your car.
Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys don't have any chips or electronics inside of them that can be replaced, so they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. This is why laser-cut keys are expensive, since 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. That way you'll be able call the locksmith and cut and program the key for you so that you have access to your car key fobs replacement again, without having to pay to get it tow back to the dealership.
Unless you own an old classic car, chances are your vehicle uses one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that allow you to open and start your car without a key. The keys contain computer chips which need to be programmed to work with the car you own. Some locksmiths are able to assist you in this process however it's recommended to let your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are familiar with your specific car and can ensure that it's done correctly.
Getting your car key fob changed can cost as high as $500, depending on the kind of key you use and whether it's remote-controlled or smart. This doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key you might wish to have in the event your key fob goes missing or stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car key was a hassle, but now it's a major issue. The reason is that modern cars have made the keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now 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 come in different sizes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that includes the transponder and mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart key" comes with an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob, like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or hidden in a coat pocket. These are typically pricier than simple remote-controlled fobs and could require the assistance of a dealer to replace.
If you have a spare fob that works in your vehicle and can be duplicated, think about trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or an independent key and lock specialist that can program your vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob at less than what a dealership would charge, which could save you $200 or more. Make sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, model and model as the original so that it can be programmed to work with your vehicle.
