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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost (40.118.145.212)?
The loss of your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads.
If you lose your keys It is recommended to have a spare made. We have put together a guide on the price to replace a car key.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, losing or losing a car key was no big deal. You could purchase a spare and simply use it in the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more technologically advanced and it's much more costly to replace lost keys.
An auto locksmith can be the most affordable alternative. They usually can duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. This kind of key isn't equipped with a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start an engine.
This is due to the fact that modern car keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to work correctly. This can only be done by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, for instance the local locksmith or an auto dealership service professional.
The cost of mechanical keys is low, but the programming chip that is used in modern cars can cost you more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to make sure you have a backup key, and that you keep it somewhere safe.
There are five distinct types of car keys, so it's crucial to know which one you have prior to seeking help to replace it. An older, standard car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and then turned to start your car. Keys like these aren't as popular, but you can find them at your local home improvement store for about $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 basic mechanical key, and it is only possible to copy it using specialized tools that only a locksmith or dealer can access. The cost for this could be as high as $500 or more, based on the model and make of your car.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their vehicle. They incorporate microchips in the keys. When the key is placed close to your car, or placed in the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is a wonderful feature to have because it helps to prevent theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car since a burglar would require both the key and the transmitter to turn it on and take off with it.
The cost of a brand new transponder keys is typically slightly more expensive than a conventional key, but that is because it has to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be able to program the transponder key, however it is recommended to ask your dealership whether they are able to program it as well. This is because they usually have the most experience with these kinds of keys, and may be able to give you an affordable price.
A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems in place. This is why it's crucial to research the most important options prior to buying your next car. You should be able to figure out which kind of key is compatible with it and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder-based password system. These are more complex as they require specialized tools to program them. However they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that even if the key is copied, it will not work with your vehicle.
It is crucial that you do not try to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics won't help you if they observe signs that your vehicle has been opened or altered. It will be very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so make sure you contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
A key that has been laser-cut is much more difficult to take or lose than a metal key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edges of the blade - instead there's a groove that cuts to a certain depth up the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to tell the difference between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from above. The fact that they're so easy to recognize also means that you can avoid getting locked out if you happen to misplace your key while you're working or doing errands.
If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call locksmiths that have equipment for making these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store will not be able to provide you with a laser-cut replacement key, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.
A locksmith uses a machine that appears similar to a standard drill to cut the key's metal, which will cut off the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The key's unique code will be extracted from the VIN and the key will then be cut to meet the specifications of your vehicle.
Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not have any electronic components or chips inside that can be replaced, which means that they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are expensive, as they require a total rebuild of the entire key.
Keep a spare car key in your car just in the event of. This way, you'll be able to call the locksmith to have it cut and programmed for you so that you can gain access to your vehicle without having to pay to get it tow back by the dealership.
Fobs
Unless you own an old classic car, the chances that your car is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that allow you to open and start your car without a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips which need to be programmed to work with the car you own. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming, but it's recommended to let your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are well-versed in the specific vehicle you have, which can ensure it's done right.
The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced could cost as much as $500, depending on the kind of key you use and whether it's smart or just remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key you might wish to have in the event your fob is lost or stolen.
Losing your car key replacement service key used to be an inconvenience. Now, it's a huge issue. That's because modern cars have made the keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now take keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advancements in car key battery replacement key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal them.
The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, but the one that comes with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is the most expensive. The "smart" key comes with a spring-loaded shank which folds into the fob like a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or hidden in a coat pocket. These are typically pricier than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the help of a dealership to replace.
If you have a spare key fob that can be used in your vehicle and could be duplicated, think about trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a firm such as Amazon or a third-party key and lock specialist that offers programming for many 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, costing as little as $200 or more. Just make sure the new fob and key 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.