How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing your car keys replacement near me keys is not a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the road.
It is a good plan to order a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. To make this more convenient we've created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big deal. You could buy an extra key and then use it in the ignition. However, modern cars are more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace keys that have been lost.
Employing an auto locksmith is the cheapest alternative. They are usually able to copy a basic metal key and do so for about $50 or less. This kind of key isn't equipped with chip and won't be able to unlock doors or start an engine.
Modern car keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to function properly. This is only done by a professional who understands what they're doing, for instance the local locksmith or an auto dealership service professional.
The cost of a mechanical key is relatively inexpensive, however the programming chip used in the latest cars will typically cost for car key replacement more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it safe.
It is important to determine the type of car keys you own before seeking assistance. A standard, older car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. These keys aren't as common however, they are available at your local home improvement store for $10.
The next type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip that transmits a message to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and start 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 specific tools that only a locksmith or a dealer in the car key replacements near me industry has access to. The cost for this could be as high as $500 or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their vehicle. They are equipped with a microchip in the key. When the key is placed in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it sends an encoded code that allows your car to begin. This feature is beneficial because it deters theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar will require both the correct key and the transmitter to turn on your car and drive away with it.
Transponder keys cost just a bit more than a regular key, but that's only because it needs to be programmed. Locksmiths are generally capable of programming the transponder key, however it is always best to ask your dealership whether they are able to program it also. They are the best option since they have the most expertise in programming these keys, and they can give you a better rate.
A lot of automakers have their own unique anti-theft strategies in place. It is important to do your research before purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able find out which kind of key will work with it and if it requires an unlocking device via a remote.
Some of the latest cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complex as they require specialized tools to program them. However they are also more secure since they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your key were duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.
It is crucial to not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the type of key. This could raise red flags with insurance companies and could cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help, especially if they see signs that the vehicle has been altered or forced to open. It is very difficult to get a new key, so you should contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much harder to lose or steal than a key made of metal. These keys have no notches 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 looking at the key from above, it is easy to identify if it's a fake or not. The fact that they're easy to spot also means that you're not at risk of being locked out if you lose your keys while at work or running around.
If you have a laser-cut key, then you'll need to call an expert locksmith who has the necessary equipment to create these kinds of replacements. Most of the time, your local hardware store will not be able to make you a new laser-cut key because they don't have the machinery required to cut and program these types of keys.
A locksmith will use an instrument that appears like a regular drill to mill the key's metal, which will remove the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code can be found from the VIN, and the key will be cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.
In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys do not have any electronics or chips inside of them that can be replaced, which means that they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. This is the reason why laser-cut keys can be expensive, since they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.
It's always a good idea to keep at least one spare key available in case you happen to lose your car keys. This way, you'll be able to contact the locksmith to have it cut and programmed for you so that you'll have access to your car again, without needing to pay to have it tow back to the dealership.
Fobs
You may not own an old classic vehicle but your vehicle probably has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to unlock and start it without a traditional key. These keys have special computer chips that must be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Fortunately, some locksmiths can assist you in this process but it's generally better to have your dealer handle it. They have the necessary tools and are well-versed in your particular car, which can ensure it's done correctly.
The cost of having your car's key fob changed can cost as much as $500, based on the type of key you use and whether it's remote-controlled or smart. This doesn't include the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you may want to have in case your key fob goes missing or stolen.
Losing your car key used to be an inconvenience. Now, it's a huge issue. That's because modern cars have made keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now take keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in the technology of car keys have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the one that has both a transponder as well as mechanical keys replacement for cars is the most expensive. This "smart key" features an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob, similar to the switchblade, making it less likely to get lost or get tucked away in pockets like a coat. These keys are usually more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have an additional fob that works with your vehicle and that can be duplicated to work with another vehicle, you may want to consider ordering a replacement aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who can program many different vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at a much lower cost than the price a dealership will charge, thereby costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, model and model as the original so that it can be programmed to work with your vehicle.