How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing keys to your car is not a pleasant experience. GEICO’s Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads.
Before you lose your key, it is a good idea to have a spare made. To make this easier, we have put together a guide to how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn’t long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big issue. You could simply purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. However, modern cars are more technologically advanced and it’s more expensive to replace the key that was lost car keys replacement.
Employing an auto locksmith is the cheapest alternative. They will usually be capable of copying a basic metal key and do so for around $50 or less. However, this kind of key isn’t equipped with chips and isn’t able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
This is because modern automobile keys come with transponders or chips that have to be programmed in order to function correctly. This is only done by a professional that knows what they are doing, like the local locksmith or car dealer professional who is a service expert.
The cost of a mechanical key is relatively low, but the programming chip used in a modern car will usually cost you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to make sure you have a backup key and keep it somewhere secure.
There are five different types of car keys, so it’s crucial to know the type you have before getting help with replacing it. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your vehicle. These keys aren’t as common however, you should be able find them at your local hardware store for around $10.
The next type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with embedded security microchips which sends a signal to the computer in the vehicle to unlock the doors and start the engine. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and can only be duplicated using specialized tools that are only available to a locksmith or car dealer. The cost for this could be up to $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your car.
Transponder Keys
Cars with transponder keys use microchips inside the key to communicate with your car. When the key is placed close to your vehicle, or inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car key fob replacement near me to begin. This is a great feature as it wards off theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car, as a thief would need both the key and transmitter to turn it on before they could drive off with it.
Transponder keys cost a little bit more than a regular key however, this is because it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by the majority of locksmiths, however it is best to 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 systems. This is why it is crucial to research the most important options prior to buying your next car. You should be able find out which kind of key is compatible with it, and whether or not it requires an unlocking device via a remote.
Certain newer vehicles have a transponder-based password system. They are a little more complex as they require a particular key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, since they employ rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that even if the key is copied, it will not work with your car.
It is essential that you do not try to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the kind of key. This could raise red flags with insurance companies and cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help you out, especially if they see indications that your vehicle has been damaged or forced open. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a new key, so you should contact an Mesa mobile car key replacement auto lockout specialist.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a vehicle that has a laser cut key, you’ll find that it’s much harder to lose or be stolen than a traditional metal key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along the edge. Instead, they have a groove cut to a specific depth on the face of the key. When you look at the key from above, it is easy to tell if it’s a fake or not. The fact that they’re so easy to recognize also means that you’re not at risk of getting locked out if you misplace your key while you’re working or running errands.
If you own an uncut laser key, you will need to contact a locksmith professional who has the right equipment to make these types of replacements. Your local hardware store is unlikely to be able provide you with the replacement key laser-cut because they don’t have the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.
A locksmith uses an instrument that appears like a standard drill to mill the metal of the key. This will be able to cut the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The key’s unique code can be retrieved from the VIN, and the key will be cut to meet the specifications of your car.
Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not have any electronics or chips inside of them that can be replaced, which means they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are expensive, since they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.
It’s always an excellent idea to have at least one spare key in your possession in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. That way you’ll be able call the locksmith to cut and program the key for you so that you can gain access to your vehicle again without having to pay to get it towed back to the dealership.
Fobs
Unless you own an old classic car, chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that allow you to unlock and start the car without a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to function with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to assist you in this process however it’s best to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the tools needed.
The cost of getting your car’s key fob changed can cost up to $500, based on the type of key you use and whether it’s a smart or remote-controlled. That doesn’t include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key you might wish to have in the event your key fob goes missing or stolen.
The loss of your car key used to be an inconvenience. It’s now a major problem. Richard Reina, CARiD’s training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves can take them. The advances in car key technologies have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in various dimensions and shapes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that includes an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key in the same fob. The “smart” key features a spring-loaded shank which folds into the fob like an e-switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or put into a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and could require the assistance of a dealer to replace.
If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be copied to work with another vehicle, you may be interested in purchasing an aftermarket replacement car key near me from a company such as Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who offers programming for many different vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at an affordable price compared to the price a dealership will charge, costing as little as $200 or more. Be sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as the original so it can be coded to work with your vehicle.