How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It is never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.
It is a good plan to purchase a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. To make this more convenient we have put together a guide to how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big issue. You could just purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more advanced in technology, and it's much more costly to replace lost keys.
Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They are usually able to copy a basic metal key and do so for about $50 or less. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with a chip and won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
G28 Car Keys is because modern automobile keys come with transponders or chips that have to be programmed to function properly. This can only by done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer service professional.
The cost of a mechanical key is relatively low, but the programming chip that is used in the latest cars will typically cost you more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to ensure that you have a backup key and keep it somewhere safe.
It is important to determine the type of car key you have before seeking help. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged metal lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your car. 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 is the transponder car key. This key has an embedded security microchip which sends a signal to the computer in the vehicle to unlock the doors and start the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a standard mechanical key, and it is only possible to copy it using specialized tools that only a locksmith or a dealer can access. This can cost up to $500 or more, depending on your car's model and make.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by automobiles to connect with their car. They are equipped with a microchip in the key. When the key is placed close to your car, or when it is inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is a wonderful feature to have as it helps to prevent theft. However, it also makes stealing your car more difficult since a thief will need both the correct key and the transmitter to turn your car on and then drive off with it.
Transponder keys cost slightly more than a regular key, however, it's because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by most locksmiths, but you should always ask your car dealer if they are able to do it. This is because they usually have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys and could be able to offer you the most competitive price.
Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it is crucial to research the most important options prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which kind of key is compatible with it and if it requires an unlocking device via a remote.
Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder system. They are a little more complex as they require a particular key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, as they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that if your keys were duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.
It is crucial that you do not try to break into your car by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This could be a red flag to insurance companies and cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help, especially if they see signs that the vehicle has been altered or opened. This will make it extremely difficult to obtain a replacement, so be sure to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
A key that has been laser-cut is much harder to lose or steal than a metal key. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edges of the blade. Instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a certain depth up the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from above, it is easy to determine if it's a fake or not. The fact that they're easy to identify also means that you're not at risk of getting locked out if you misplace your keys while at work or running errands.
If you own an uncut laser key, you'll need to call an expert locksmith with the equipment to make these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases the hardware store you visit will not be able to make a new laser-cut key because they don't have the tools needed to cut and program these types of keys.
A locksmith will employ an instrument that appears like a standard drill to mill the metal of the key, which will be able to cut the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The key's unique code will be retrieved from the VIN, and the key will then be cut according to your vehicle's specifications.
Laser-cut keys are different from a regular transponder key because they do not contain any electronic components or chips which can be altered. They must be destroyed and replaced by a new one. This is why laser-cut keys can be expensive, since they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.
Keep a spare car key in your possession in case of case of. You can then call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so that you can get back into your car without having to pay for it to be tow to the dealer.
Fobs
There's a chance that you don't have an old classic car, but your car probably utilizes the latest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to work with the vehicle you own. There are locksmiths who can do this reprogramming for you but it's generally recommended to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the tools needed.
The cost of having your car's key fob replaced can cost as much as $500, depending on the kind of key you use and whether it's smart or just remote-controlled. That doesn't include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key you might wish to have in the event your fob is lost or stolen.
It used to be that losing your car keys was a hassle However, now it's an actual issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern cars have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves are able to take keys. The advancements in car key technologies have made it harder for thieves.
The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that has the transponder and mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart key" has a spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob, similar to the switchblade, making it less likely to be lost or hidden in pockets like a coat. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have a spare key fob that works in your car and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a business such as Amazon or an independent locksmith and key company which offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob for less than the price a dealership will charge, thereby saving up to $200 or more. Just make sure the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, make and model as the original so that it can be programmed to work with your car.