It is never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO can help you get back on the road in a hurry by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
When you lose your key it is recommended to have a spare made. We have compiled a guide on the cost to replace keys for cars.
Mechanical Keys
Not long ago, misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big deal. You could simply purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. However, modern cars are more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace keys that have been lost.
The cheapest way to do this is to employ an auto locksmith. They are usually capable of copying a basic metal key for around $50 or less. This type of key does not have chip and will not be able unlock doors or start an engine.
This is because modern automobile keys come with transponders or chips that have to be programmed in order to work correctly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they are doing, like an experienced locksmith car key replacement cost in your area or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.
The cost of a mechanical key is relatively affordable, however the programming chip that is used in the latest cars will typically cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to make sure you always have a backup key and that you keep it somewhere secure.
There are five different types of car keys, so it's crucial to know which one you have before getting help with replacing it. A standard, older 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, but you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for around $10.
The next type is a transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip that transmits a message to the car's computers to unlock the doors and start the engine. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key and can only be done with specific tools that are only available to a locksmith or dealer of cars. The cost for this could be up to $500 or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys have microchips inside the key that communicates with your car. When the key is put into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it sends an electronic Car key Replacement code that signals your car to start. This is an excellent feature to have because it helps to prevent theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult as a burglar will need both the correct key and transmitter in order to turn your car on and take it away.
The cost of a new transponder keys is typically slightly more expensive than a conventional key, but that is because it must be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be capable of programming a transponder key, but it is always best to ask your car dealership if they can do so as well. This is because they often have the most experience with these types of keys and could be able to provide you with the most competitive price.
Many automotive manufacturers have their own unique anti-theft mechanisms in place. This is why it is crucial to research the most important options before you purchase your next car. You should be able to figure out which kind of key it is compatible with and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.
Some of the latest cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are a bit more complicated because they require a special key replacements for cars tool to program them. They are more secure, however, as they utilize rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that even if the key is cloned, it will not work with your car.
It is important that you don't attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This can be a red flag to insurance companies and will make mechanics reluctant to assist you particularly if they notice evidence that the car has been tampered with or opened. It is very difficult to obtain a new key, so contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll find that it's a lot harder to lose or steal than a traditional metal key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along the edge. Instead, they have a groove cut to a specific depth on the face of the key. When you look at the key from above, it is easy to tell whether it's a fake or not. They are easy to identify and you won't be locked out of your home if your key gets lost while you're working or running errands.
If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment for these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases the hardware store you visit isn't able to make a new laser-cut key because they don't have the machinery required to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.
A locksmith uses a machine that appears 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 extracted from the VIN and the key is cut to the specifications of your vehicle.
Laser-cut keys are different from a regular transponder key because they do not have electronics or chips that can be replaced. They must be destroyed and replaced with an entirely new model. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive since they require a complete rebuild of the key.
Keep a spare car key in your car just in the event of. You can then contact a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so you can reenter your vehicle without having pay for it to be tow by the dealer.
Fobs
If you don't own a classic car, the chances that your car is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs which allow you to unlock and start the vehicle without the need for a key. The keys contain computer chips that must be programmed to work with the vehicle you own. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming, but it is usually better to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and have all the necessary tools.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob can be up to $500 based on whether it's an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. That doesn't include the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you may want to have in case your fob gets lost or stolen.
The loss of your car key was once a source of frustration. Now, it's a huge problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves can take keys. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal them.
The new keys are available in different dimensions and shapes however the most expensive is one that includes the transponder and mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart key" comes with an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds up into the fob, similar to an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to be lost or get tucked away in the pocket of a coat. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the help of a dealership to replace.
If you have a spare fob that can be used in your vehicle and can be cloned, consider trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement keys for car from a company such as Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key company that offers programming for many vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for much less than a dealership charges, saving yourself up to $200 or more. Just make sure the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, make and model as your original so that it can be programmed to work with your car.