How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It's never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads.
It is a good idea to buy an extra key before you lose yours. To make this easier we have put together a guide to how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big issue. You could buy a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more advanced in technology, and it's much more costly to replace lost keys.
The most affordable method to accomplish this is to hire an auto locksmith. They will usually be able to copy a basic metal key for about $50 or less. This type of key isn't equipped with chip and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start engines.
Modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, that need to be programmed to work correctly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they are doing, for instance a local locksmith or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.
The cost of having an electronic key copied is fairly low however programming the chip used in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it safe.
There are five distinct types of car keys, so it's important to know which one you have prior to seeking help to replace it. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your car. They're not as common however you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for about $10.
The second type of car key is the transponder 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. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be duplicated using specialized tools that are available to a locksmith or car dealer. It can cost as high as $500 or more based on your car's make and model.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize microchips inside the key to connect with your car. When the key is put in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is a great feature because it stops theft. However, it makes stealing your car more difficult as a burglar will need both the correct key and the transmitter to start your car and drive away 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 a transponder key, but it is always best to ask your car dealership whether they are able to do this as well. They are the best choice because they have the most experience in programming these keys, and they can offer you a better price.
Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft systems. It is essential to conduct your research before purchasing your next car. You should be able find out which kind of key is compatible with it and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.
Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with transponder password systems. These are a bit more complicated because they require a specific key tool to program them. However, automotive car key replacement are more secure since they use rolling code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key has been duplicated, it won't work with your car.
It is crucial to not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the kind of key. This could raise red flags with insurance companies and could make mechanics reluctant to help, especially if they see signs that the car has been tampered with or opened. It will be very difficult to obtain a new key, so you should contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
You'll find a laser-cut key is much more difficult to lose or steal than a traditional key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edges of the blade. Instead there's a groove which cuts to a specific depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from above, it is easy to identify whether it's a fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to recognize also means that you can avoid getting locked out if you misplace your key while you're working or running for errands.
If you own keys that have been laser-cut, you will need to contact a locksmith professional who has the right equipment to make these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases your local hardware store will not be able to create a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the machinery needed to cut and program these kinds of keys.
A locksmith will employ a machine that looks very similar to 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 code of the key is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut to the specifications of your vehicle.
Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not contain any electronic components or chips inside them that could be replaced, which means that they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive because they require a complete rebuild of the key.
Have at least one spare car key in your possession in case of case of. This way, you'll be able to call the locksmith and cut and program the key for you so that you'll have access to your car again without having to pay to have it tow back to the dealership.
Fobs
You might not have an old-fashioned car, but your car probably utilizes the latest high-tech fobs to open and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys come with electronic chips that have to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming on your behalf however it's recommended to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the necessary tools.
The cost of having your car's key fob replaced could cost up to $500, depending on the type of key you drive and whether it's a smart or remote-controlled. This does not include the cost of an electronic 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 hassle however, it's now a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern automobiles have made keys that useful and reliable that thieves are able to steal them. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal them.
These new keys come in a variety of dimensions and shapes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that has a transponder and a mechanical key within the same fob. The "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank which folds in the fob to form an e-switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or hidden in a coat pocket. These keys are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealer.
If you have a spare key fob that works in your car and can be duplicated, think about trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a business such as Amazon or an independent locksmith and key company that can program your vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges which could save you up to $200 or more. Make sure you purchase the fob and key that's the identical model, year, and make as your original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.