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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 an extra key before you lose yours. To make this easier we've created a list of the cost of replacement car key of replacement keys for car car keys. cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big problem. You could buy a spare key, and use it to turn on the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more advanced in technology, and it's more costly to replace keys that have been lost.
Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable alternative. They'll usually be capable of copying a basic metal key and do so for about $50 or less. This type of key doesn't have chip and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start engines.
Modern car keys include transponders, also known as chips, that must be programmed to work correctly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, for instance an auto locksmith in your area or a car dealership service professional.
The cost of mechanical keys is affordable, however the programming chip that is used in a modern car will usually cost more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key in your car and keep it safe.
It's crucial to know the kind of car key you have before seeking help. A more traditional, older car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your vehicle. They're not as common however they are available at your local home improvement store for $10.
The next kind of car key is the transponder key that has an embedded security chip that sends a signal to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and is only possible with specialized tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith dealer in the car. The cost for this could be up to $500 or more, based on the make and model of your car.
Transponder Keys
Cars with transponder keys use microchips inside the key that communicates with your car. When the key is placed close to your vehicle, or placed in the ignition, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is a great feature because it deters theft. However, it 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 purchasing a new transponder keys is typically slightly more expensive than a standard key, but that is because it has to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be competent to program a transponder key, but it is always best to ask your dealership whether they are able to do this as well. They are the best choice because they have the most expertise in programming these keys, and they can offer you a better price.
Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it is important to research the key options before you purchase your next vehicle. You should be able to figure out which type of key is compatible with it and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.
Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder. These are more complex as they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, as they employ rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that if your key was cloned it would not work in your car.
It is crucial that you do not try to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will not assist you if they see signs that your car was opened or damaged. It will be very difficult to get a new key, so contact a Mesa mobile auto car key replacement near me lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much more difficult to lose or steal than a metal key replacements for cars. 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 across the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from above, it is easy to identify whether it's a fake or not. They are easy to spot, so you won't get locked out of your home if your key gets lost while you're working or running errands.
If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you will need to contact a professional locksmith who has the right equipment to create these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to make you a laser-cut replacement key, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.
A locksmith will employ a machine that looks very like a standard drill to mill the metal of the key, which will remove the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The unique key's code is then extracted from the VIN and the key is then cut according to your vehicle's specifications.
Laser-cut keys differ from regular transponder key because they don't contain electronic components or chips that can be replaced. They must be destroyed and replaced with a new one. This is why laser-cut keys are expensive, since they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.
It's always an excellent idea to have at least one spare key in your possession in the event that you accidentally lose your car keys. So, you'll be able to contact the locksmith to cut it and program it for you, so that you can have access to your car again without having to pay to have it towed back to the dealership.
Fobs
You may not own an old classic vehicle, but your car probably utilizes the latest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips which need to be programmed to work with the car you own. There are locksmiths who can do this reprogramming for you however it's best to have your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are familiar with your specific car and can ensure that it's done correctly.
The cost of replacing your car key fob could be as high as $500, depending on whether it is smart key or remote-controlled key. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key you may need in the event your fob is lost or stolen.
It used to be that losing your car keys was an inconvenience, but now it's an actual issue. This is because modern vehicles have made keys so easy and reliable that thieves are now able to steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in the technology of car keys have made it more difficult for thieves.
The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the one that has both a transponder as well as a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart key" comes with an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob like the switchblade, making it less likely to get lost or tucked inside pockets like a coat. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealer.
If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and that can be cloned to work with another vehicle, you might be interested in purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who can program a variety of vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges and save yourself around $200 or more. Be sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as your original so that it can be programmed to work with your vehicle.