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 return to the road.
It is a good idea to order a spare key before you lose yours. To make this more convenient we've created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not too 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 on the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it's more costly to replace keys lost.
Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable alternative. They can usually copy a metal key for less than $50. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with an electronic chip, and therefore isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
This is because modern automobile keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to work correctly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who knows what they're doing, such as an auto locksmith in your area or a car dealership service professional.
The cost of mechanical keys is inexpensive, however the programming chip used in a modern car will usually cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to make sure you always have a backup key and keep it somewhere secure.
There are five types of car keys , therefore it is important to identify the type you have before seeking help to replace it. A more traditional, older car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and turned to turn on your car. Keys like these aren't as popular however you can find them at your local home improvement store for around $10.
The next kind of car key is the transponder with an embedded security chip that transmits a signal to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and enable the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key, and it can only be copied with specialized tools that only a locksmith or a dealer can access. The cost of this service can be as high as $500 or more, based on the make and model of your car.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their car. They are equipped with an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is close to your car, or inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that tells your car to begin. This feature is beneficial as it wards off theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar requires both the right key and transmitter to turn your car on and then drive off with it.
A transponder key costs a little bit more than a regular one, however, it's because it has to be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be able to program keys that have transponders, but it is best to ask your dealership whether they are able to program it as well. This is because they typically have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys, and may be able to offer you a more competitive price.
Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it's crucial to research the most important options prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able to figure out which type of key it is compatible with and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Certain newer cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. They are a little more complex as they require a particular key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, because they use rolling-code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key has been copied, it will not work with your vehicle.
No matter what kind of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital that you never try to open the door of your vehicle yourself. This can raise red flags with insurance companies and cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help in the event of signs that the car has been tampered with or forced open. It can be extremely difficult to get a new key, so make sure you contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you own a car that has a laser cut key, you'll see that it's much harder to lose or steal than a traditional metal key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they have a groove that's cut to a specific depth along the key's face. When looking at the key from above it's easy to identify whether it's fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to recognize also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out in the event that you lose your key while you're at work or doing errands.
If your key is laser-cut you'll need to call a locksmith that has specialized equipment for making these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store 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 similar to a standard drill to mill the metal of the key. This will cut off the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The unique key's code is then extracted from the VIN and the key is then cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.
Laser-cut keys are not like normal transponder keys because they don't contain electronic components or chips that can be replaced. They must be destroyed and replaced by the new model. This is the reason why laser-cut keys can be expensive, as they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.
Keep at least one spare car key in your car just in the event of. So you'll be able contact the locksmith to cut and program the key for you, so that you can gain access to your vehicle without having to pay to get it towed back at the dealership.
Fobs
You may not have an old classic car however, your car likely utilizes the latest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. The keys contain computer chips which need to be programmed to function with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming for you but it's generally recommended to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the necessary tools.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob can be as high as $500 depending on whether it is smart key or remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key that you may wish to have in the event your fob is lost or stolen.
The loss of your car key was once a source of frustration. Now, it's a huge problem. That's because modern cars have made the keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in the technology of car keys have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, but the one that has both transponder and a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart key" features an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob, similar to a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or hidden in the pocket of a coat. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have a spare key fob that can be used in your car and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a firm such as Amazon or an independent key and lock specialist that offers programming for many vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges, saving yourself as much as $200 or more. Make sure you buy a key and fob that is the same model, year and make as the original to ensure it can be programmed to your vehicle.