How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of keys to your car is not a pleasant experience. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road quickly with Emergency Roadside Service.
It is a good idea to buy a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. We have compiled a list on the price to replace keys for cars.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge problem. You could buy a spare key, and use it to turn on the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace keys lost.
Hiring an auto locksmith is the cheapest option. They will usually be capable of copying a standard metal key for around $50 or less. This kind of key isn't equipped with chip and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start engines.
This is due to the fact that modern car keys come with transponders or chips that have to be programmed in order to function properly. This is only done by a professional who knows what they're doing, like the local locksmith or an expert from a dealership's service department.
The cost to get a mechanical key copied is relatively cheap, but the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it in a safe place.
It's important to identify the type of car key 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 turn on your vehicle. They're not as common however, you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.
The next type of car key is a transponder key that has an embedded security chip that sends an electronic signal to the car's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key and is only possible with special tools, which are only available to a locksmith or dealer in the car. This can cost up to $500 or more, depending on the car's make and model.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their car. They use microchips in the keys. When the key is placed in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it transmits a code to signal your car to begin. This is a wonderful feature to have because it deters theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car since a burglar would require 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 traditional key, but that is because it has to be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be competent to program keys that have transponders, but it is recommended to ask your car dealership whether they are able to program it as well. They are the best choice since they have the most expertise in programming these keys, and they can give you a better rate.
Many automakers have their own anti-theft strategies in place. It is crucial to conduct your research prior to buying your next car. You should be able to figure out which kind of key works with it and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder. They are a little more complicated because they require a special key tool to program them. However they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key has been cloned, it will not work with your vehicle.
Whatever type of key you have, it is crucial that you do not attempt to break into your own vehicle yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics won't help you if they notice signs that your vehicle was opened or altered. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a replacement key, so contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's more difficult to lose or get stolen than a traditional key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edge of the blade - instead there's a groove which cuts to a specific depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from above, it is easy to determine whether it's fake or not. They are easy to identify and will not get locked out if you have your key lost while you're doing errands or working.
If your key is laser-cut, you'll need to contact an locksmith who has equipment for these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases your local hardware store isn't able to create a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the equipment needed to cut and program these types of keys.
A locksmith uses a machine that looks very like 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 obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut to the specifications of your vehicle.
Laser-cut keys differ from normal transponder keys because they do not contain any electronics or chips that can be changed. They have to be destroyed and replaced by a new one. Laser-cut keys are expensive due to the complete rebuild of the key.
Have at least one spare car key in your possession just in case of. vehicle key replacement can then contact a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so that you can be back in your vehicle without having pay for it to be towed by the dealer.
Fobs
Unless you own an old classic car, the chances that your car is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that allow you to unlock and start the car without having a key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that need to be programmed to work with the vehicle you own. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming, but it is usually better to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and have all the tools needed.
The cost of replacing your car key fob could be as high as $500 depending on whether it is smart key or remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of a mechanical backup key you may want in case your fob is lost or stolen.
The loss of your car keys was once a source of frustration. Now it's a serious problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern cars have made keys so convenient and powerful that thieves are able to steal them. The advancements in technology for car keys have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes however the most expensive one is one that has the transponder and mechanical key inside the same fob. This "smart key" comes with a spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob like the switchblade, making it less likely to be lost or tucked inside pockets like a coat. They're generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the help of a dealership to replace.
If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and that can be copied to work in another vehicle, you might want to consider ordering an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob at an affordable price compared to what a dealership will charge, thereby costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure you buy the fob and key that's the identical model, year, and model as your original to ensure it can be programmed for your vehicle.