How 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 fast by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
It is a good idea to order a spare key before you lose yours. To make this more convenient we've created a list of the cost of replacement car keys. cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not long ago, misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big issue. 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 expensive to replace lost keys.
Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable alternative. They are usually able to duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. This type of key doesn't have a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start an engine.
This is because modern automobile keys come with transponders or chips that have to be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they are doing, for instance a local locksmith or a car dealer professional in service.
The cost of mechanical keys is low, but the programming chip that is used in modern cars can cost more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key and keep it in a safe place.
It's important to identify the type of car key you own before seeking assistance. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. Keys like these aren't as popular however, you can find them at your local home improvement store for $10.
The next type is the transponder car key. This key has embedded security microchips which sends a signal to the car's computers to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate than a standard mechanical key, and it is only possible to copy it using special tools that only a locksmith or a car dealer has access to. It can cost as high as $500 or more based on the car's make and model.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys have an embedded microchip in the key that communicates with your car. When the key is inserted in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to start. This feature is great because it stops theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car since a burglar would require both the key and transmitter to turn it on before they could drive off with it.
The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is typically slightly more expensive than a traditional key, but this is due to the fact that it needs to be programmed as well. g28carkeys.co.uk is possible to program a key transponder by most locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your dealer if they can do it. This is because they typically have the most experience with these types of keys, and may be able to provide you with the most competitive price.
A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems. It is important to do your research prior to buying your next car. You should be able find out which kind of key is compatible with it and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.
Certain newer cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are a bit more complicated because they require a special key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, because they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key is duplicated, it won't work with your car.
No matter what kind of key you've got regardless of the type, it is essential that you do not attempt to open the door of your car yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies and could cause many mechanics to refuse to help you out particularly if they notice indications that your vehicle has been altered or forced open. It will be very difficult to get a new key, so make sure you contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a vehicle with a laser-cut key, you'll see that it's more difficult to lose or get stolen than a conventional metal key. These keys have no notches cut along the edges of the blade. Instead there's a winding groove that cuts to a set depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from the top it's easy to identify if it's a fake or not. They are easy to recognize, so you won't get locked out if your key is lost while working or running errands.
If your key is a laser-cut one, you'll need to contact an locksmith who has equipment for these kinds of replacements. In most cases the hardware store you visit won't be able make you an original laser-cut key since they don't have the equipment needed to cut and program these types of key fobs.
Locksmiths use an apparatus that looks like a standard drill in order to cut the metal of the key. This will reduce the entire surface to the desired length. The key's unique code will then be retrieved from the VIN, and the key will then be cut to meet the specifications of your car.
In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys do not contain any electronics or chips inside them that could be replaced, which means they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys are expensive due to the complete rebuild of the key.
Have at least one spare car key in your possession in case of case. You can then call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed, so 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, chances are your vehicle uses one of the latest high-tech fobs which allow you to unlock and start your car without having a key. These keys have special computer chips that must be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Some locksmiths are able to assist you in this process but it's generally better to have your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are knowledgeable about your particular car, which can ensure it's done correctly.
Getting your car key fob replaced could cost as much as $500, depending on the type of key you use and whether it's remote-controlled or smart. This doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key you might need in the event that your key fob goes missing or stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car key was an inconvenience however, it's now an actual issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern automobiles have made keys that convenient and powerful that thieves are able to steal keys. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal them.
The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, however the one that has both a transponder as well as a mechanical key is the most expensive. The "smart" key has 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 tucked into a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the help of a dealership to replace.
If you have an additional fob that works with your vehicle and that can be copied to work in another vehicle, you might think about purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or a specialist in key and lock that offers programming for various vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for much cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge, saving yourself up to $200 or more. Make sure you buy the fob and key that has the same model, year and model as your original to ensure that it is compatible with your vehicle.