It is never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the road.When you lose your key it is an ideal idea to make a backup. To make it easier we have created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge problem. You could 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 lost keys.
The most affordable method to accomplish this is to get an auto locksmith. They'll usually be able to copy a basic metal key for about $50 or less. This type of key isn't equipped with a chip, and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start engines.
This is due to the fact that modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed to function properly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who knows what they're doing, like a local locksmith or even an expert from a dealership's service department.
The cost to get an electronic key copied is relatively low, but the programming of the chip in modern cars will typically run you more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key in your car and store it safely.
It is important to determine the kind of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. A standard, old-fashioned 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 you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for about $10.
The next kind of car key is the transponder key, which has an embedded security chip that transmits an alert to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be copied with specific tools that only a locksmith or car dealer has access to. The cost for this can be up to $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys have a microchip inside of the key that communicates with your car. When the key is placed close to your vehicle, or inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code which signals your car to start. This feature is great because it deters theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car, because a burglar will need both the key and the transmitter to turn it off and drive off with it.
A transponder key costs just a bit more than a regular key, however, this is because it must be programmed. Most locksmiths will be competent to program the transponder key, however it is always best to ask your dealership if they can do so also. This is because they usually have the most experience with these types of keys and could be able to offer you a more competitive price.
Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems. It is important to do your research before purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to figure out which type of key is compatible with it and whether 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 that changes the password every time they are used. This means that if your keys were copied, it will not work in your car.
Regardless of what type of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital that you do not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself. This can be a red flag to insurance companies and could cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help you out, especially if they see indications that your vehicle has been damaged or forced to open. This can make it very hard to get replacement key for car parts, so be sure to speak with an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much harder to steal or lose than a traditional key. These keys do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they have a groove that's cut to a certain depth on the face of the key. When you look at the key from the top it's easy to tell whether it's a fake or not. They are easy to spot and you won't be locked out of your home if your key gets lost while working or running errands.
If you have an uncut laser key, you'll need to talk to an expert locksmith who has the necessary equipment to make these types of replacements. Your local hardware store will not be able to create the replacement key for car key laser-cut as they lack the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.
A locksmith uses a machine that looks very like a standard drill to cut the metal of the key. This will remove the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The unique key's code is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.
Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not contain any electronic components or chips inside that can be replaced, which means that they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a brand new key. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are so expensive, since they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.
It's always recommended to keep at least one spare key on hand in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. That way you'll be able call the locksmith and cut it and program it for you so that you gain access to your vehicle without having to pay to get it tow-back by the dealership.
Fobs
If you do not own a classic car key battery replacement near me, chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that allow you to open and start the car without having a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that need to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. There are locksmiths who can assist you in this process, though it's usually recommended to let your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are well-versed in the specific vehicle you have, which can ensure it's done correctly.
The cost of replacing your car key fob could be up to $500 based on whether it is smart key or remote-controlled key. That doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key that you might wish to have in the event your fob is lost or stolen.
Losing your car key used to be an inconvenience. Now, it's a huge problem. The reason is that modern cars have made the keys so convenient and effective that thieves are now able to steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal the keys.
These new keys come in various sizes and shapes however the most expensive is one that has an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart" key features a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob like an e-switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or hidden in a coat pocket. These keys are usually more expensive than regular 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 copied to work in another vehicle, you may think about purchasing a cheapest replacement car keys aftermarket from a company such as Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist that offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges, saving yourself as much as $200 or more. Make sure you buy the fob and key that is the same model, year and make as your original to ensure it can be programmed for your vehicle.