How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of keys to your car is not a pleasant experience. GEICO’s Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.
If you lose your keys, it is recommended to make a backup. To make it easier we have created a list of the cost of replacement car keys. cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn’t long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big problem. You could simply buy a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. However, today’s cars are more technologically advanced and it’s more costly to replace a lost key.
Employing an auto locksmith is the most affordable alternative. They usually can duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. This type of key doesn’t have chip and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start an engine.
This is due to the fact that modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that have to be programmed to function correctly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who is aware of what they’re doing, for instance an auto locksmith in your area or an auto dealership service professional.
The cost to have a mechanical key copied is fairly low, but the programming of the chip in modern cars will usually cost more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it safe.
It’s crucial to know the type of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. A standard, older car key is a double-edged lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. They’re not as common however, you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for $10.
The next type of car key is a transponder key that has an embedded security chip that transmits a signal to the vehicle’s computer system to unlock the doors and allow the engine to start. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a standard mechanical key, and it can only be copied with specific tools that only a locksmith or a car dealer has access to. The cost of this service can be up to $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 placed close to your vehicle or when it is inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This feature is great because it deters theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult because a burglar will require both the correct key and transmitter in order to start your car and take it away.
The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is typically slightly more expensive than a standard key, but only because it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with many locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your car dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best option because they have the most experience in programming these keys and can give you a better rate.
Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it is essential to research all the key options before you purchase your next vehicle. You should be able find out which kind of key is compatible with it and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Certain newer vehicles have a transponder password system. They are more complicated as they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, because they use rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key is cloned, it will not work with your vehicle.
It is crucial to not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the kind of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics won’t help you if they see signs that your vehicle was opened or tampered with. It is very difficult to get a new key, so make sure you contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you own a car with a laser-cut key, you’ll find that it’s much harder to lose or be stolen than a traditional metal key. These keys do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that is cut to a specific depth on the face of the key. When looking at the key from the top it’s easy to identify whether it’s fake or not. The fact that they’re so easy to spot also means that you’re less likely to risk being locked out in the event that you misplace your key while you’re working or running for errands.
If you own a laser-cut key, then you’ll need to call a locksmith professional who has the right equipment to make these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit isn’t likely to create a laser-cut replacement car key cost key, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this type of key fob.
A locksmith will employ an apparatus that resembles a standard drill in order to mill the key’s metal. This will cut the entire surface to the desired length. The key’s unique code can be extracted from the VIN, and the key will then be cut according to the specifications of your cheap car keys replacement.
In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys do not contain any chips or electronics inside them that could be replaced, so they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are expensive, as they require a total rebuild of the entire key.
It’s an excellent idea to have at least one spare key in your possession in the event that you accidentally lose your car keys. Then, you can call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can be back in your car without having to pay for it to be tow to the dealer.
Fobs
If you do not own a classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to unlock and start the car without having a key. These keys have special electronic chips that have to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able to assist you in this process but it’s generally best to have your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the tools needed.
The cost of replacing your car key fob could be as high as $500 depending on whether it’s a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn’t include the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you may wish to have in the event your key fob goes missing or stolen.
Losing your car key used to be an inconvenience. It’s now a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD’s training director, says that modern automobiles have made keys that useful and reliable that thieves can take keys. The advancements in the technology of car keys have made it more difficult for thieves.
The new keys come in different sizes and shapes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that has a transponder and a mechanical key inside the same fob. This “smart key” features an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds into the fob, similar to an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to be lost or get tucked away in the pocket of a coat. They are generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have an additional fob that works with your vehicle and can be cloned to work in another vehicle, you might be interested in purchasing an aftermarket replacement keys for cars from a business like Amazon or a key and lock specialist who offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges and save yourself as much as $200 or more. Make sure you buy a key and fob that is the same model, year and make as your original to ensure it can be programmed for your vehicle.