How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing your car keys is not a pleasant experience. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road in a hurry with Emergency Roadside Service.
If you lose your keys, it is an ideal idea to have a spare. To make this more convenient, we have created a guide on the cost of replacement car keys. cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, losing or losing the car key was not a big problem. You could simply buy a spare key, and use it to turn on the ignition. However, modern cars are much more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.
The cheapest method of doing this is to employ an auto locksmith. They are usually able to duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. However, this kind of key doesn't come with an electronic chip, and therefore won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
Modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, that must be programmed in order to function properly. This is only done by a professional who knows what they are doing, for instance an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer service professional.
The cost to get an electronic key copied is fairly low however, the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to make sure you always have a backup key and keep it in a safe place.
new car key replacement cost to identify the type of car key you have before seeking help. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged steel lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. These keys aren't as common however you can find them at your local home improvement store for $10.
The second type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the car's computers to unlock the doors and begin the engine. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and is only possible with specific tools that are accessible to a locksmith or car dealer. The cost of this service can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys have a microchip inside of the key that communicates with your car. When the key is put in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it transmits an encoded code that allows your car to begin. This is an excellent feature to have as it deters theft. But, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar will require both the correct key and the transmitter to turn your car on and take it away.
The cost of a new transponder key is typically a little more expensive than a traditional key, but that is because it has to be programmed as well. Most locksmiths will be capable of programming a transponder key, but it is always best to ask your car dealership whether they are able to program it as well. This is because they often have the most experience with these types of keys and could be able to provide you with a more competitive price.
A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it's essential to research all the key options prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to figure out which kind of key it is compatible with and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.
Some newer vehicles come with a transponder password system. These are more complex as they require specialized 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 copied, it will not work with your vehicle.
It is important that you do not try to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This can raise alarms with insurance companies. car key replacement cost uk will not assist you if they notice signs that your vehicle has been opened or damaged. This could make it difficult to obtain an exchange, so make sure to speak with an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
You'll find a laser-cut key is much harder to lose or steal than a traditional key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along the edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a certain depth along the face of the key. When looking at the key from the top it's easy to determine if it's a fake or not. They are easy to recognize, so you won't get locked out if your key is lost while working or running errands.
If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call locksmiths that have equipment to make these types of replacements. In the majority of cases, your local hardware store won't be able make a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the equipment required to cut and program these kinds of keys.
A locksmith will employ an apparatus that resembles a standard drill in order to cut the metal of the key. This will reduce the entire surface until it is the desired length. The unique key's code is then extracted from the VIN and the key is cut to the specifications of your vehicle.
Laser-cut keys are not like normal transponder keys because they do not have electronic components or chips that can be replaced. They must be destroyed and replaced by the new model. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive since they require a complete rebuild of the key.
Keep at least one spare car key in your car just in case of. You can then call an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed, so you can get back into your car without having to pay for it to be towed to the dealer.
Fobs
You might not have an old classic car but your vehicle probably uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to unlock and start it without a traditional key. The keys contain electronic chips that need to be programmed to work with the car you own. Certain locksmiths can perform this reprogramming, however it is generally best to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the necessary tools.
The cost of having your car's key fob replaced can cost as high as $500, based on the kind of key you use and whether it's a smart or remote-controlled. That doesn't include the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you might wish to have in the event your fob gets lost or stolen.
It used to be that losing your car key was a hassle, but now it's an actual issue. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now take them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in the technology of car keys have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, but the one with transponder and mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart key" has an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds down into the fob, similar to an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to be lost or tucked inside pockets like a coat. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the help of a dealership to replace.
If you have a spare key fob that can be used in your car and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or an independent locksmith and key company which offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for much less than what a dealer charges and save yourself up to $200 or more. Be sure to purchase a key and fob that's the identical model, year, and make as your original to ensure it can be programmed for your vehicle.
