How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.
It is a good plan to buy a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. To make this more convenient we've created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big deal. You could just purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. However, modern cars are much more advanced in technology and it is more expensive to replace a lost key.
The cheapest way to do this is to employ an auto locksmith. They are usually able to duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. However, this type of key doesn't come with chips and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
Modern car keys come with transponders, also known as chips, that must be programmed to work correctly. This can only be done by a professional that knows what they are doing, like the local locksmith or car dealer professional in service.
The cost of having a mechanical key copied is relatively low however, the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key on hand and keep it safe.
There are five types of car keys, therefore it is important to identify which one you have prior to getting help with replacing it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged metal lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your car. They're not as common however you can find them at your local home improvement store for $10.
The next type of car key is a transponder key with an embedded security chip that transmits a signal to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and is only possible with specialized tools that are accessible to a locksmith or dealer in the car. The cost of this service can be as high as $500 or more, based on the model and make of your car.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys have a microchip inside of the key to connect with your car. When the key is placed in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it sends a code to signal your car to begin. This is a great feature because it stops theft. However, it makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar will require both the correct key and the transmitter to start your car and then drive off with it.
The cost of a brand new transponder key is usually a little more expensive than a conventional key, but this is due to the fact that it needs to be programmed as well. It is possible to program a key transponder with the majority of locksmiths, however you should always inquire with your dealer about whether they can do it. They are the best choice since they have the most expertise in programming these keys and can offer you a better price.
A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms in place. It is essential to conduct your research prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able find out which type of key works with it and whether it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.
Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with transponder password systems. These are a bit more complex as they require a particular key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, since they employ rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your key was copied, it will not work in your car.
It is crucial that you do not try to break into your car by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies and could cause many mechanics to refuse to help you out in the event of evidence that the car has been tampered with or opened. It is very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so make sure you contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a vehicle that has a laser cut key, you'll find that it's a lot harder to lose or get stolen than a traditional key made of metal. These keys have no notches cut along the edges of the blade - instead there's a groove which cuts to a specific depth up the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from above it's easy to tell whether it's fake or not. They are easy to identify and you won't be locked out if your key is lost while doing errands or working.
If your key is a laser-cut one, you'll need to contact locksmiths that have equipment for these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit is unlikely to be able create a laser-cut replacement key , as they lack the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.
A locksmith will employ a machine that looks very similar to a standard drill to mill the key's metal, which will remove the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The key's unique code will then be retrieved from the VIN, and the key will then be cut according to your vehicle's specifications.
Laser-cut keys differ from traditional transponder keys since they do not have electronic chips or electronics which can be altered. They must be destroyed and replaced with a new one. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive due to the complete rebuild of the key.
Have at least one spare car key in your possession just in the event of. You can then contact a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that you can reenter your vehicle without having pay for it to be tow to the dealer.
Fobs
If you don't own a classic car, the chances that your car is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start your car without having a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips which need to be programmed in order to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming, but it's recommended to let your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the necessary tools.
The cost of getting your car's key fob changed can cost up to $500, depending on the kind of key you use and if it's smart or just remote-controlled. That's not even including the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key you might wish to have in the event your fob gets lost or stolen.
The loss of your car keys was once a source of frustration. It's now a major problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys so easy to use and strong that thieves can steal them. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal them.
The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, but the one that has both transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart key" features an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds into the fob, similar to a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or get tucked away in the pocket of a coat. These are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have a spare key fob that can be used in your vehicle and could be cloned, consider trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key company which offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob for a much lower cost than the price a dealership will charge, saving up to $200 or more. Be sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as the original so it can be coded to work with your car.