How Much Do
Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of your car keys is not a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.
When you lose your key It is a good idea to make a backup. To make this more convenient we have created a list of the
cost of car key replacement of replacement car keys.
cost of a replacement car key.
Mechanical Keys
Not long ago, misplacing or losing the
car key replacement service near me key was not a big issue. You could just buy a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. Today, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and it is much more costly to replace lost keys.
Hiring an auto locksmith is the cheapest alternative. They usually can duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. This type of key isn't equipped with a chip, and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start engines.
This is because modern automobile keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to work properly. This can only by done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, such as the local locksmith or car dealer professional in service.
The cost to have an electronic key copied is relatively low however, the programming of the chip in modern cars will typically run you more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to make sure you always have a backup key and that you keep it in a safe place.
There are five different types of car keys available, so it's important to know the type you have before seeking help to replace it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to start your car. These keys aren't as common, but they are available at your local home improvement store for $10.
The next type of car key is a transponder key with an embedded security chip that sends an alert to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and enable the engine to start. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and can only be duplicated using specific tools that are available to a locksmith or dealer in the car. It could cost you $500 or more based on the car's make and model.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their vehicle. They incorporate an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is near to your car or when it is inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that tells your car to begin. This is a great feature because it deters theft. However, it makes stealing your
car key replacements near me much more difficult since a thief will need both the correct key and transmitter in order to start your car and then drive off with it.
The cost of purchasing a new transponder keys is typically a little more expensive than a standard key, but that is because it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by most locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your car dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best choice since they have the most knowledge of programming these keys and can offer you a better price.
A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. It is essential to conduct your research before purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which type of key is compatible with it and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with transponder password systems. They are more complicated as they require special tools to program them. However they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your key was duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.
Whatever type of key you have, it is crucial that you do not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself. This can raise red flags with insurance companies and will cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help, especially if they see signs that the vehicle has been altered or forced to open. This can make it very difficult to obtain replacement parts, so be sure to speak with an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
You'll find a laser-cut key is much harder to steal or lose than a key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edges of the blade - instead there's a groove that cuts to a set depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from the top, it is easy to tell whether it's a fake or not. They are easy to spot, so you won't get locked out if you have your key lost while working or running errands.
If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment for these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store is unlikely to be able create the replacement key laser-cut as they lack the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.
A locksmith will employ an instrument that resembles an ordinary drill to cut the key's metal. This will remove the entire surface to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is cut to the specifications of your vehicle.
Laser-cut keys differ from traditional transponder keys since they don't contain electronic components or chips that can be replaced. They have to be destroyed and replaced with a new one. Laser-cut keys are expensive because they require a complete rebuild of the key.
Keep a spare car key in your possession in case of case. You can then call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed, so you can be back in your vehicle without having to pay for it to be towed to the dealer.
Fobs
There's a chance that you don't own an old classic vehicle but your vehicle probably utilizes the latest high-tech fobs to unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys come with computer chips that need to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Fortunately, some locksmiths can do this reprogramming for you but it's generally better to have your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are well-versed in your particular car to ensure that the reprogramming is done correctly.
Getting your car key fob replaced can cost as much as $500, depending on the type of key you drive and if it's a smart or remote-controlled. That's not even including the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key that you may want to have in case your key fob goes missing or stolen.
It used to be that losing your car keys was a pain however, it's now a real problem. This is because modern vehicles have made keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now take keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal them.
The new keys are available in different dimensions and shapes, but the one with transponder and mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart key" comes with an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob, like an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to get lost or hidden in pockets like a coat. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealer.
If you have a spare fob that is 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 specialist that offers programming for many automobiles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge and save yourself as much as $200 or more. Make sure you buy a key and fob that's the same model, year and make as your original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.
