How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing keys to your car 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 buy a spare key before you lose yours. We have put together a guide on the cost to replace the car key.
Mechanical Keys
Not long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big problem. You could purchase an extra key and then use it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and it is much more expensive to replace lost keys.
The cheapest way to do this is to get an auto locksmith. They are usually capable of copying a basic metal key for about $50 or less. However, this type of key isn't equipped with chips and will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.
This is because modern car keys are equipped with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed to work correctly. This is only done by a professional who knows what they're doing, such as the local locksmith or an auto dealership service professional.
The cost of mechanical keys is affordable, however the programming chip in modern cars can cost you more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key and store it safely.
There are five types of car keys, therefore it is important to identify which one you have prior to receiving assistance in replacing it. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder, and turned to turn on your car. They're not as common, but you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for $10.
The next type of car key is the transponder key, which has an embedded security chip that sends an electronic signal to the car's computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a basic mechanical key, and can only be copied using specific tools that only a locksmith or a dealer in the car industry has access to. The cost for this could be as high as $500 or more, based on the model and make of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize an embedded microchip in the key that communicates with your car. When the key is put in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it sends a code to signal your car to begin. This is an excellent feature to have because it helps to prevent theft. But, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult since a thief will need both the correct key and the transmitter in order to start your car and take it away.
The cost of a brand new transponder keys is typically higher than a conventional key, but this is due to the fact that it must be programmed as well. It is possible to program a key transponder with most locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your car dealer if they are able to do it. This is because they typically have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys, and may be able to provide you with the most competitive price.
A lot of automakers have their own distinct anti-theft strategies in place. It is crucial to conduct your research before purchasing your next car. You should be able find out which kind of key works with it and whether it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.
Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder. These are a bit more complicated because they require a specific key tool to program them. However they are also more secure as they use rolling code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key has been cloned, it will not work with your car.
Whatever type of key you've got regardless of the type, it is essential that you never try to gain entry into your car yourself. This could be a red flag to insurance companies and will cause many mechanics to refuse to help in the event of indications that your vehicle has been damaged or forced open. It is very difficult to obtain a replacement 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 more difficult to take or lose than a traditional key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a specific depth on the key's face. When you look at the key from the top, it is easy to identify whether it's a fake or not. The fact that they're easy to spot also means that you can avoid being locked out in the event that you happen to misplace your keys while at work or running for errands.
If you have a laser-cut key, then you will need to contact a professional locksmith who has the right equipment to create these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases the hardware store you visit won't be able make a new laser-cut key because they don't have the equipment needed to cut and program these types of key fobs.
A locksmith uses a machine that looks very like a regular drill to cut the key's metal, which will be able to cut the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then obtained from the VIN and the key is cut to your vehicle's specifications.
Laser-cut keys are different from a traditional transponder keys since they do not contain any electronic components or chips that can be replaced. They must be destroyed and replaced by a new one. Laser-cut keys are expensive since they require a complete rebuild of the key.
It's an excellent idea to have at least one spare key available in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. So you'll be able call the locksmith to cut and program the key for you so that you can gain access to your vehicle again, without having to pay to have it tow back by the dealership.
Fobs
If you do not own a classic car, the chances that your car is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start your vehicle without the need for a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to function with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to assist you in this process but it's generally recommended to let your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are knowledgeable about your specific car, which can ensure it's done right.
Getting your car key fob replaced could cost as high as $500, based on the type of key you use and whether it's a smart or remote-controlled. That's not even including the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key you might need in the event that your key fob goes missing or stolen.
The loss of your car key used to be an inconvenience. Now it's a serious problem. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so convenient and capable that thieves are now able to steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal the keys.
The new keys come in various shapes and sizes however the most expensive is one that has a transponder and a mechanical key inside the same fob. This "smart key" has an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds up into the fob like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or get tucked away in a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.
If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and can be copied to work in another vehicle, you might want to consider ordering a replacement aftermarket from a business like Amazon or a key and lock specialist that offers programming for many different vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob at less than what a dealership will charge, costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure key replacement car G28 Car Keys UK purchase a key and fob that's the identical model, year, and make as your original to ensure that it is compatible with your vehicle.