how much is a replacement car key uk Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It’s never a good feeling to lose your car keys. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road in a hurry by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
When you lose your key, it is a good idea to have a spare made. We have compiled a list on the cost to replace the car key.
Mechanical Keys
Not long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big problem. You could buy an extra key and then use it in the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more technologically advanced, and it’s much more expensive to replace lost keys.
The most affordable method to accomplish this is to hire an auto locksmith. They’ll usually be capable of copying a standard metal key and do so at a cost of $50 or less. This type of key isn’t equipped with chip and online will not be able unlock doors or start engines.
Modern car keys include transponders, or chips, which must be programmed properly. This is only done by a professional who is aware of what they’re doing, for instance the local locksmith or a car dealership service professional.
The cost to get an electronic key copied is relatively cheap however, the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key on hand and keep it safe.
There are five different types of car keys, so it’s important to know which one you have prior to getting help with replacing it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your car. They’re not as common, but you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for about $10.
The next type is a transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip that sends a message to the computer in the vehicle to unlock the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a standard mechanical key, and it can only be copied using specific tools that only a locksmith or a dealer in the car key replacement industry has access to. The cost for this can be up to $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your car.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by vehicles to connect with their car. They use microchips in the keys. When the key is placed close to your vehicle, or when it is inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code which signals your car to start. This is an excellent feature to have as it helps to prevent theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar requires both the right key and the transmitter to start your car and take it away.
The cost of a new transponder key is usually higher than a standard key, but only because it has to be programmed. Locksmiths are generally able to program a transponder key, but it is best to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to program it also. This is because they typically have the most experience with these types of keys, and may be able to offer you a more competitive price.
Many automotive manufacturers have their own unique anti-theft systems in place. This is why it’s crucial to research the most important options prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able find out which type of key it is compatible with and if it requires a wireless remote car key replacement to unlock it.
Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder password system. These are more complex as they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, as they use rolling-code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key is cloned, it will not work with your car.
It is important that you don’t attempt to break into your car on your own, no matter the type of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies and make mechanics reluctant to help you out, especially if they see indications that your vehicle has been altered or forced to open. This could make it difficult to obtain a replacement, so be certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile replacement car keys auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a vehicle with a laser-cut key, you’ll find that it’s much harder to lose or steal than a traditional key made of metal. The keys don’t have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a particular depth on the face of the key. This makes it very easy to tell the difference between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from the top. They are easy to identify, so you won’t get locked out if your key is lost while you’re working or running errands.
If you have a laser-cut key, then you will need to contact an expert locksmith who has the necessary equipment to create these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit is unlikely to be able create a laser-cut replacement key, because they don’t have the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.
A locksmith will use an apparatus that resembles an ordinary drill to mill the key’s metal. This will remove the entire surface until it is the desired length. The key’s unique code will then be extracted from the VIN, and the key will be cut to meet your vehicle’s specifications.
Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys don’t have any electronic components or chips inside them that could be replaced, which means that 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 rebuild of the entire key.
Keep a spare car key in your car just in case of. That way, you’ll be able to call the locksmith and cut it and program it for you so that you have access to your car without needing to pay to have it tow back to the dealership.
Fobs
You may not have an old classic car however, your car likely utilizes the latest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys come with electronic chips that have to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming but it is generally best to let your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are knowledgeable about the specific vehicle you have, which can ensure it’s done correctly.
Getting your car key fob changed can cost as much as $500, based on the kind of key you use and whether it’s a smart or remote-controlled. This doesn’t include the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car key was an inconvenience However, now it’s an actual issue. Richard Reina, CARiD’s training director, says that modern cars keys replacement have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves are able to steal keys. The advancements in car key technologies have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in a variety of shapes and sizes however the most expensive is one that includes a transponder and a mechanical key within the same fob. This “smart” key features a spring-loaded shank which folds into the fob like a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or put in a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealer.
If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be copied to work with another vehicle, you may think about purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or a key and lock specialist who can program various vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for less than what a dealer charges which could save you as much as $200 or more. Make sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, model and model as your previous to ensure it is programmed to work with your car.