How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road in a hurry by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
It is a good idea to purchase an extra key before you lose yours. To make it easier we've 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 problem. You could just buy a spare key, and use it to turn the ignition. However, today's cars are much more advanced in technology and it is more expensive to replace a lost key.
An auto locksmith can be the most affordable alternative. They are usually capable of copying a standard metal key and do so at a cost of $50 or less. However, this kind of key doesn't come with an electronic chip, and therefore isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
Modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, which must be programmed correctly. This is only done by a professional who knows what they are doing, for instance the local locksmith or car dealer service professional.
The cost to get a mechanical key copied is relatively low, but the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to make sure you always have a backup key, and keep it somewhere secure.
There are five distinct types of car keys, therefore it is important to identify the type you have before getting help with replacing it. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your car. Keys like these aren't as popular, but they are available at your local home improvement store for about $10.
The next type is a transponder car key. This key has embedded security microchips that sends a message to the car's computers to unlock the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be copied using specialized tools that only a locksmith or a dealer can access. The cost of this service can be up to $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by vehicles to connect with their car. They incorporate an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is placed in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to start. This feature is great as it wards off theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car, since a burglar would require both the key and transmitter to turn it off and take off with it.
The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is typically slightly more expensive than a conventional key, but this is due to the fact that it needs to be programmed as well. Locksmiths are generally able to program keys that have transponders, but it is best to ask your dealership whether they are able to program it also. They are the best choice because they have the most experience in programming these keys and will provide you with a better price.
Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it's important to research the key options prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able find out which type of key is compatible with it and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.
Some of the latest cars are equipped with a password transponder system. These are more complex as they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, as they use rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your keys were cloned it would not work in your car.
It is crucial that you do not try to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies and will cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help you out particularly if they notice signs that the car has been tampered with or forced open. This can make it very hard to get replacement parts, so be certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much more difficult to steal or lose than a traditional key. These keys do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they have a groove that's cut to a certain depth on the key's face. When looking at the key from the top it's easy to tell if 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 if you misplace your keys while working or running errands.
If you have an uncut laser key, you will need to contact a locksmith professional with the equipment to make these types of replacements. Your local hardware store isn't likely to create the replacement key laser-cut as they lack the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.
A locksmith uses a machine that appears like a standard drill to cut the metal of the key, which will be able to cut the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique key's code is then extracted from the VIN and the key is then cut to your vehicle's specifications.
Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not contain any electronics or chips inside that can be replaced, which means that they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. This is why laser-cut keys can be expensive, as they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.
Have at least one spare car key in your possession in case of the event of. replacement keyless car keys 'll be able call the locksmith to have it cut and programmed for you, so that you have access to your car again without having to pay to have it tow back by the dealership.
Fobs
If you don't own a classic car, chances are your vehicle uses one of the latest high-tech fobs that allow you to open and start your car without a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming on your behalf, though it's usually best to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and have all the tools needed.
The cost of having your car's key fob replaced could cost as high as $500, depending on the type of key you drive and if it's remote-controlled or smart. This doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key that you might wish to have in the event your key fob goes missing or stolen.
It used to be that losing your car key was a pain however, it's now a real problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys that useful and reliable that thieves can steal keys. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in various shapes and sizes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that includes the transponder and mechanical key inside the same fob. This "smart key" features an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds into the fob, like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or hidden in the pocket of a coat. These are usually more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealer.
If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be copied to work in a different vehicle, you may want to consider ordering an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a key and lock specialist who offers programming for various vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at less than the price a dealership will charge, thereby costing as little as $200 or more. Be sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as the original so that it can be programmed to work with your vehicle.