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 road.
When you lose your key It is recommended to have a spare. To make this more convenient, we have created a guide on the cost of replacement car keys. cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big deal. You could simply purchase a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. However, modern automobiles are more technologically advanced and it is more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.
An auto locksmith can be the cheapest alternative. They will usually be able to copy a basic metal key and do so at a cost of $50 or less. This kind of key doesn't have a chip, and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start an engine.
This is because modern car keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to work correctly. This is only done by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, for instance an auto locksmith in your area or an auto dealership service professional.
The cost to have an electronic key copied is fairly low, but the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key and keep it in a safe place.
There are five different types of car keys, therefore it is important to identify which one you have prior to receiving assistance in replacing it. A more traditional, older car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your vehicle. They're not as common however, you should be able find them at your local hardware store for about $10.
The next type of car key is the transponder key that has an embedded security chip that sends an alert to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and allow the engine to start. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key and is only possible with special tools that are accessible to a locksmith car dealer. It can cost as high as $500 or more based on the model and make.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by cars to connect with their car. They are equipped with a microchip in the key. When the key is near to your car or inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that tells your car to begin. This feature is great because it stops theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult since a thief will require both the correct key and the transmitter to turn your car on and drive away with it.
A transponder key costs just a bit more than a regular key but that's only because it needs to be programmed. Locksmiths are generally able to program keys that have transponders, but it is always best to ask your dealership whether they are able to program it also. They are the best choice since they have the most expertise in programming these keys, and they can provide you with a better price.
Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it is important to research the key options prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able to figure out which type of key works with it and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.
Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder system. These are a bit more complex as they require a particular key tool to program them. However they are also more secure because they employ rolling code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that if your keys were cloned it would not work in your car.
It is important that you don't attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the type of key. This can raise red flags with insurance companies and will cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help, especially if they see indications that your vehicle has been altered or opened. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a new key, so make sure you contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's a lot harder to lose or be stolen than a traditional metal key. The keys don't have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove that's cut to a particular depth in the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from above, it is easy to identify whether it's a fake or not. The fact that they're easy to recognize also means that you're not at risk of being locked out if you happen to misplace your key while you're working or running for errands.
If your key is laser-cut you'll need to call locksmiths that have equipment to make these types of replacements. In the majority of cases, your local hardware store isn't able to make a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the machinery required to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.
Locksmiths use an instrument that resembles the drill used in standard homes to cut the metal of the key. This will remove all the surface to the desired length. The key's unique code will then be extracted from the VIN and the key will then be cut according to the specifications of your car.
Laser-cut keys are different from a regular transponder key because they do not have electronic components or chips which can be altered. They must be destroyed and replaced with the new model. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are expensive, since they require a total rebuild of the entire key.
Keep a spare car key in your car just in case of. So, you'll be able to call the locksmith and cut it and program it for you so that you gain access to your vehicle again without needing to pay to have it tow back at the dealership.
Fobs
If you do not own a classic car, the chances that your car is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs which allow you to open and start your car without having a key. The keys contain computer chips which need to be programmed in order to work with the vehicle you own. There are locksmiths who can perform this reprogramming on your behalf, though it's usually best to have your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are well-versed in your specific car, which can ensure it's done right.
The cost of replacing your car key fob can be as high as $500 depending on whether it is smart key or remote-controlled key. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key you might need in the event that the fob goes missing or is stolen.
Losing your car key was once a source of frustration. It's now a major problem. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now take them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in the technology of car keys have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.
These new keys come in different sizes and shapes however the most expensive is one that includes an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key inside the same fob. This "smart" key features a spring-loaded shank that can fold into the fob in the same way as an e-switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or put in a pocket of a coat. These are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealer.
If car key replacements have a spare key fob that works in your vehicle and can be duplicated, think about trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key company which offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for much cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge, saving yourself up to $200 or more. Make sure you buy a key and fob that's the same model, year and model as your original to ensure it can be programmed for your vehicle.