How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It's never a good feeling to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.
It is a good plan to order a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. We have compiled a list on how much it costs to replace a car key.
Mechanical Keys
Not long ago, misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big problem. You could buy a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. However, modern automobiles are more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace keys that have been lost.
The most affordable method to accomplish this is to hire an auto locksmith. They will usually be capable of copying a basic metal key at a cost of $50 or less. This kind of key doesn't have a chip, and will not be able unlock doors or start engines.
Modern car keys have transponders, or chips, that must be programmed in order to function properly. This is only done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, for instance an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer service professional.
The cost of having an electronic key copied is fairly low however, the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that you always have a backup key and that you keep it in a safe place.
It's crucial to know the type of car keys you own before seeking assistance. An older, standard car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and then turned to start your car. These keys aren't as common however you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.
The next type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with embedded security microchips that sends a message to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and is only possible with specialized tools that are accessible to a locksmith dealer of cars. The cost for this can be up to $500 or more, based on the model and make of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Cars with transponder keys use microchips inside the key to connect with your car. When the key is close to your vehicle or when it is inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is a great feature as it wards off theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult because a burglar will require both the correct key and the transmitter in order to start your car and drive away with it.
A transponder key is just a bit more than a regular one, but that's only because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with the majority of locksmiths, however it is best to inquire with your car dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best option since they have the most expertise in programming these keys, and they can provide you with a better price.
Many automotive manufacturers have their own anti-theft mechanisms in place. This is why it is important to research the key options prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which kind of key works with it and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder. These are more complicated because they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, since they utilize rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key has been cloned, it will not work with your vehicle.
It is essential to not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the kind of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will not assist you if they notice indications that your car was opened or tampered with. This will make it extremely difficult to obtain an exchange, so make sure to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
A key that has been laser-cut is much more difficult to steal or lose than a key made of metal. key replacement car don't have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a certain depth on the face of the key. This makes it easy to distinguish between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from above. The fact that they're so easy to identify also means that you're not at risk of being locked out in the event that you lose your keys while at work or running around.
If your key is a laser-cut one then you'll have to contact locksmiths that have equipment for these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases, your local hardware store will not be able to make a new laser-cut key because they don't have the tools required to cut and program these types of key fobs.
A locksmith will use a machine that appears similar to a standard drill to cut the metal of the key. This will be able to cut the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The key's unique code can be found from the VIN and the key will then be cut according to your vehicle's specifications.
Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not have any chips or electronics inside of them that can be replaced, which means they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys are expensive due to the full rebuild of the key.
It's always recommended to keep at least one spare key on hand in the event that you accidentally lose your car key. You can then call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed, so you can get back into your car without having to pay for it to be towed to the dealer.
Fobs
If you don't own a classic car, the chances are your vehicle uses one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start your vehicle without the need for a key. These keys have special computer chips that need to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming for you but it's generally best to have your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and have all the tools needed.
The cost of getting your car's key fob changed can cost as much as $500, depending on the type of key you drive and if it's a smart or remote-controlled. That doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key that you might want to have in case your fob is lost or stolen.
The loss of your car key was once a source of frustration. It's now a major problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern cars have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves can steal keys. The advances in car key technologies have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys come in a variety of sizes and shapes however the most expensive is one that has an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart key" has an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob, like the switchblade, making it less likely to get lost or tucked inside a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and could require the assistance of a dealer to replace.
If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be duplicated to work with another vehicle, you might think about purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who offers programming for many different vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for much cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge and save yourself as much as $200 or more. Be sure to purchase a key and fob that has the same year, model and model as your original to ensure it can be programmed for your vehicle.