• 목록
• 답변
• 글쓰기
• 게시판 리스트 옵션
  • 수정
  • 삭제

How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is not a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.

When you lose your key, it is an ideal idea to have a spare made. To make this more convenient, we have created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big issue. You could simply buy a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. However, modern automobiles are much more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace the key that was lost.

The cheapest way to do this is to employ an auto locksmith. They will usually be capable of copying a standard metal key and do so for about $50 or less. This type of key does not have a chip, and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start an engine.

Modern car keys come with transponders, also known as chips, that need to be programmed to work correctly. This is only done by a professional who understands what they're doing, such as the local locksmith or an auto dealership service professional.

The cost of mechanical keys is low, but the programming chip in a modern car will usually cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to ensure that you always have a backup key and keep it in a safe place.

It is important to determine the type of car keys you have before contacting a locksmith. A standard, older car key is a double-edged metal lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. They're not as common, but you can find them at your local home improvement store for about $10.

The next type is a transponder car key. This key has an embedded security microchip which sends a signal to the car's computers to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a basic mechanical key, and it can only be copied using specific tools that only a locksmith or a dealer in the car industry has access to. The cost for this can be up to $500 or more, based on the model and make of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their car. They are equipped with a microchip in the key. When the key is near to your vehicle, or when it is inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code which signals your car to start. This feature is beneficial because it deters theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car, since a burglar would require both the key and the transmitter to turn it off and drive off with it.

The cost for car key replacement of a brand new transponder key is usually a little more expensive than a conventional key, but this is due to the fact that it needs to be programmed as well. It is possible to program a key transponder by many locksmiths, but you should always ask your dealer if they are able to do it. This is because they usually have the most experience with these types of keys, and may be able to give you a more competitive price.

A lot of automakers have their own unique anti-theft systems in place. This is why it is important to research the key options prior to buying your next car. You should be able find out which kind of key is compatible with it and whether it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Certain newer vehicles have a transponder-based password system. These are more complex as they require special tools to program them. However, they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they're used. This means that even if your key is cloned, it will not work with your car.

No matter what kind of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital to never attempt to break into your own vehicle yourself. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will not assist you if they observe signs that your car key replacement service has been opened or altered. This could make it hard to get an exchange, so make certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car with a laser-cut key, you'll find that it's much harder to lose or steal than a traditional key car replacement made of metal. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they have a groove that's cut to a certain depth in the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from the top, it is easy to identify if it's a fake or not. The fact that they're easy to recognize also means that you're not at risk of getting locked out if you misplace your key while you're at work or running for errands.

If your key is a laser-cut one, you'll need to contact an locksmith who has equipment for making these kinds of replacements. Most of the time your local hardware store will not be able to create a new laser-cut key because they don't have the machinery required to cut and program these kinds of keys.

A locksmith will employ a machine that appears like a regular drill to cut the metal of the key. This will remove the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The key's unique code will be retrieved from the VIN and the key will then be cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.

Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not contain any chips or electronics inside that can be replaced, so they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are so expensive, as they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.

Keep at least one spare car key in your possession just in case. You can then call an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can be back in your vehicle without having to pay for it to be tow to the dealer.

Fobs

There's a chance that you don't own an old classic vehicle but your vehicle probably utilizes the latest high-tech fobs to open and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that have to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming, however it's best to have your dealer do it. They have the right tools and are well-versed in your particular car, which can ensure it's done right.

Getting your car key fob replaced could cost for replacement car key as high as $500, based on the kind of key you use and if it's a smart or remote-controlled. That's not even including the cost of a new mechanical backup key that you might wish to have in the event your fob gets lost or stolen.

It used to be that losing your car key was an inconvenience however, it's now a real problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys that convenient and powerful that thieves can steal keys. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal them.

The new keys are available in various dimensions and shapes, but the one that comes with transponder and mechanical keys is the most expensive. The "smart" key features an elongated shank that is spring loaded and folds in the fob to form an e-switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or put into a coat pocket. These keys are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have a spare fob that works in your vehicle and could be copied, you might want to try to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key specialist that offers programming for many automobiles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob at less than what a dealer will charge, which could save you $200 or more. Make sure you purchase the fob and key that has the same model, year and make as the original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.