How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It is never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road in a hurry by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
If you lose your keys It is recommended to make a backup. To make this easier, we have put together a guide to how much replacement car keys cost.
car key and fob replacement , misplacing or losing a car key was no big deal. You could purchase a spare and simply use it in the ignition. However, modern automobiles are much more advanced in technology and it's more costly to replace the key that was lost.
Employing an auto locksmith is the cheapest option. They will usually be able to copy a basic metal key and do so for about $50 or less. However, this type of key doesn't come with an electronic chip, and therefore won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
This is because modern car keys come with transponders or chips that have to be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only by done by a professional who knows what they are doing, like a local locksmith or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.
The cost of having an electronic key copied is fairly low however, the programming of the chip in modern cars will typically run you more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key in your car and keep it safe.
It's important to identify the kind of car key you have before seeking help. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and then turned to start your vehicle. These keys aren't 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 with an embedded security chip that transmits an electronic signal to the car's computer system to unlock the doors and enable the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and can only be done with specialized tools that are only available to a locksmith or car dealer. The cost of this service can be as high as $500 or more, based on the model and make of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their vehicle. They are equipped with an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is near to your vehicle or inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is a wonderful feature to have because it helps to prevent theft. However, it makes stealing your car more difficult since a thief will need both the correct key and transmitter to turn on your car and then drive off with it.
A transponder key is slightly more than a regular key, however, this is because it needs to be programmed. Locksmiths are generally able to program a transponder key, but it is recommended to inquire with your car dealer if they can do so as well. This is because they often have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys, and may be able to provide you with a more competitive price.
Many automakers have their own unique anti-theft mechanisms in place. car key and fob replacement is why it is crucial to research the most important options before you purchase your next car. You should be able to find out which kind of key it is compatible with and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder. They are more complicated as they require specialized tools to program them. However they are also more secure as they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they're used. This means that even if your key has been duplicated, it won't work with your vehicle.
No matter what kind of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital that you do not attempt to open the door of your car yourself. This can raise red flags with insurance companies and will make mechanics reluctant to help in the event of indications that your vehicle has been altered or forced open. This can make it very difficult to obtain an exchange, so make sure to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a car that has a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's more difficult to lose or steal than a traditional key made of metal. The keys don't have a notch along the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that's cut to a certain depth in the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to differentiate between a genuine and fake key when you look at it from above. They are easy to identify and you won't be locked out if your key is lost while you're working or running errands.
If you have an uncut laser key, you'll need to talk to a professional locksmith with the equipment to make these types of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to provide you with the replacement key laser-cut as they lack the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.
Locksmiths use an apparatus that looks like a standard drill in order to cut the metal of the key. This will cut the entire surface to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.
Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not have any electronic components or chips inside them that could be replaced, so they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a brand new key. This is why laser-cut keys are expensive, as they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.
Keep a spare car key in your car just in case of. So you'll be able contact the locksmith to have it cut and programmed for you, so that you'll gain access to your vehicle without needing to pay to have it tow back by the dealership.
Fobs
Unless you own an old classic car, the chances are your vehicle uses one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start the vehicle without the need for a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that need to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming but it's best to let your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and have all the tools needed.
The cost of replacing your car key fob can be as high as $500, depending on whether it's smart key or remote-controlled key. That's not even including the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key you might want to have in case your key fob goes missing or stolen.
The loss of your car keys was once a source of frustration. It's now a major problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern cars have made keys so easy to use and strong that thieves can take keys. The advancements in the technology of car keys have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in various dimensions and shapes, but the one that has both transponder and mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart" key comes with an elongated shank that is spring loaded and folds in the fob to form an e-switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or hidden into a coat pocket. These are usually more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealer.
If you have a spare key fob that is in your vehicle and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business such as Amazon or a third-party key and lock specialist that offers programming for many automobiles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob at less than what a dealer will charge, thereby saving up to $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a fob and a key that is the same year, model and make as the original to ensure that it can be programmed for your vehicle.