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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing keys to your car is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO's emergency car key replacement Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads.
It is a good idea to order a spare key before you lose yours. To make this more convenient, we have put together a guide to how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, losing or losing keys to your car was not a big deal. You could just buy a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace keys lost.
Hiring an auto locksmith is the cheapest replacement car keys alternative. They are usually able to copy a basic metal key for about $50 or less. This kind of key doesn't have 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 function correctly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they're doing, for instance the local locksmith or an auto dealership service professional.
The cost of a mechanical key is relatively low, but the programming chip that is used in a modern car will usually cost you more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key and keep it in a safe place.
There are five distinct types of car keys available, so it's crucial to know the type you have before getting help with replacing it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. These keys aren't as common however you can find them at your local home improvement store for $10.
The next type is the transponder car key. This key has embedded security microchips that sends a message to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and start the engine. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be duplicated using specialized tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith dealer of cars. It can cost as high as $500 or more based on the car's model and make.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys have a microchip inside of the key to connect with your car. When the key is near to your car or when it is inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that tells your car to begin. This is a wonderful feature to have because it deters theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car, because a burglar will need both the key and transmitter to turn it off and take off with it.
Transponder keys cost a little bit more than a regular key however, it's because it needs to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be able to program keys that have transponders, but it is best to inquire with your car dealer if they can do so as well. They are the best option as they have the best knowledge of programming these keys and will give you a better rate.
A lot of automakers have their own unique anti-theft strategies in place. It is crucial to conduct your research prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able find out which kind of key will work with it and if it requires the use of a 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. They are more secure, however, since they use rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that even if the key is copied, it will not work with your car.
No matter what kind of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital that you never try to open the door of your vehicle by yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will refuse to assist you if they observe indications that your car was opened or altered. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a replacement car keys cost near me key, so make sure you contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's much harder to lose or be stolen than a traditional key made of metal. These keys do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a certain depth along the key's face. When looking at the key from the top, it is easy to tell if it's a fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to identify also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out in the event that you happen to misplace your key while you're working or running around.
If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact an locksmith who has equipment to make these types of replacements. In most cases, your local hardware store won't be able create a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the equipment required to cut and program these kinds of keys.
A locksmith will use a machine that appears like a standard drill to mill the metal of the key. This will be able to cut the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code will then be retrieved from the VIN and the key will be cut to match your vehicle's specifications.
In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys do not contain any electronics or chips inside that can be replaced, which means they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. This is why laser-cut keys can be expensive, as they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.
It's an excellent idea to have at least one spare key on hand in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. You can then call an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that you can get back into your car without having to pay for it to be tow back to the dealer.
Fobs
If you do not own a classic car, chances are your vehicle uses one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start the car without a key. These keys come with computer chips that must be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming, but it is generally best to let your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are familiar with your specific car and can ensure that it's done correctly.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob can be as high as $500 depending on whether it's smart key or remote-controlled key. This doesn't include cost of an electronic backup key that you may want in case your fob is lost or stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car key was an inconvenience However, now it's an actual issue. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now steal 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 come in different sizes and shapes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that has the transponder and mechanical key inside the same fob. This "smart key" has a spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob, similar to an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to be lost or hidden in a coat pocket. These are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealer.
If you have a spare fob that can be used in your vehicle and could be cloned, consider trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a business such as Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key specialist which offers programming for a variety of automobiles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges which could save you as much as $200 or more. Just make sure the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, make and model as your previous so it can be coded to work with your vehicle.