How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of your car keys is not a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads.
Before you lose your key It is an ideal idea to make a backup. To make this more convenient we have created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big deal. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. However, today's cars are much more advanced in technology and it's more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.
The cheapest method of doing this is to get an auto locksmith. They can usually copy a metal key for less than $50. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with chips and will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.
Modern car keys have transponders, or chips, that must be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only be done by a professional who understands what they're doing, like an auto locksmith in your area or an expert from a dealership's service department.
The cost of mechanical keys is low, but the programming chip in the latest cars will typically cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to ensure that you have a backup key and that you keep it somewhere safe.
There are five different types of car keys, so it's crucial to know which one you have before receiving assistance in replacing it. A more traditional, older car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and then turned to start your vehicle. These keys aren't as common however, you should be able find them at your local hardware store for around $10.
The next kind of car key is the transponder key with an embedded security chip that sends an electronic signal to the car's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key and can only be done with specialized tools, which are only accessible 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
Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their vehicle. They use microchips in the keys. When the key is placed close to your vehicle, or placed in the ignition, it sends an electronic code that tells your car to start. This is a great feature because it stops theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car as a thief would need both the key and transmitter to turn it off and drive off with it.
The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is usually slightly more expensive than a standard key, but only because it needs to be programmed as well. It is possible to program a key transponder by the majority of locksmiths, however you should always ask your dealer about whether they can do it. They are the best option since they have the most expertise in programming these keys and will give you a better rate.
A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems in place. This is why it is important to research the key options prior to purchasing your next car. You will be able to figure out which type of key is compatible with it and if it requires an unlocking device via a remote.
Certain newer cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complicated because they require specialized tools to program them. However they are also more secure since they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that even if the key is duplicated, it won't work with your car.
It is essential that you don't attempt to break into your car on your own, no matter the kind of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies and will cause many mechanics to refuse to help you out, especially if they see indications that your car has been tampered with or forced to open. It will be very difficult to get a new key, so contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a vehicle with a laser-cut key, you'll find that it's much harder to lose or be stolen than a traditional metal key. These keys do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they have a groove that is cut to a particular depth along the key's face. When you look at the key from above it's easy to identify whether 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 misplace your keys while at work or running for errands.
If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call an locksmith who has equipment for making these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to make you the replacement key laser-cut because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.
A locksmith will use a machine that appears like a standard drill to cut the metal of the key. vehicle key replacement 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 cut to 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 have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. This is why laser-cut keys are so expensive, since they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.
Keep at least one spare car key in your car just in case. That way you'll be able contact the locksmith to cut and program the key for you, so that you can have access to your car again, without needing to pay to have it tow back to the dealership.
Fobs
There's a chance that you don't own an old classic vehicle however, your car likely uses one of the newest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without a traditional key. The keys contain computer chips that must be programmed to work with the vehicle you own. Fortunately, some locksmiths can perform this reprogramming on your behalf but it's generally better to have your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are well-versed in your specific car, which can ensure it's done correctly.
The cost of having your car's key fob replaced can cost as high as $500, depending on the type of key you use and whether it's remote-controlled or smart. This does not include the cost of a mechanical backup key that you may want in case the fob goes missing or is stolen.
It used to be that losing your car keys was a pain however, it's now an actual issue. This is because modern vehicles have made keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now steal keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys come in different shapes and sizes, but the most expensive one is one that includes an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key inside the same fob. The "smart" key features a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob like an e-switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or put in a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than standard 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 might be interested in purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a key and lock specialist who can program many different vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob for an affordable price compared to what a dealer would charge, saving up to $200 or more. Be sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as the original to ensure it is programmed to work with your vehicle.