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 get back on the road.
When you lose your key, it is an ideal idea to have a spare made. To make it easier we've created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big problem. You could buy an extra and put it in the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more advanced in technology, and it's much more expensive to replace keys lost.
Hiring an auto locksmith is the cheapest option. They'll usually be capable of copying a basic metal key and do so for about $50 or less. However, this type of key doesn't come with chips and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
This is because modern automobile keys come with transponders or chips that have to be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who understands what they're doing, for instance the local locksmith or a car dealership service professional.
The cost of mechanical keys is low, but the programming chip that is used in a modern car will usually cost you more than $300. The best way to prevent this is by making sure you have a backup key and that you keep it in a safe place.
There are five distinct types of car keys available, therefore it is important to identify which one you have before getting help with replacing it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged steel lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. Keys like these aren't as popular however, you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for about $10.
The second type is the transponder car key. This key has embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and start the engine. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and is only possible with special tools that are accessible to a locksmith or car dealer. This can cost up to $500 or more depending on the model and make.
Transponder Keys
Cars with transponder keys use a microchip inside of the key that communicates with your car. When auto car key replacement is near to your car, or inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code which signals your car to begin. This feature is beneficial because it deters theft. However, it makes stealing your car more difficult as a burglar will need both the correct key and the transmitter in order to turn your car on and take it away.
A transponder key costs slightly more than a regular one, however, it's because it has to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be able to program keys that have transponders, but it is always best to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to program it also. This is because they often have the most experience with these types of keys, and may be able to offer you an affordable price.
A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it is important to research the key options before you purchase your next vehicle. You should be able find out what type of key is compatible with it and if it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.
Certain newer vehicles have transponder password systems. They are more complicated as they require special tools to program them. However they are also more secure as they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key is duplicated, it won't work with your car.
It is crucial to not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies and will cause many mechanics to refuse to help you out particularly if they notice indications that your car has been tampered with or opened. It will be very difficult to obtain a new key, so you should contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.
Laser-Cut Keys
A key that has been laser-cut is much more difficult to lose or steal than a key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they have a groove that is cut to a particular depth on the face of the key. This makes it very easy to tell the difference between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from the top. They are easy to identify and you won't be locked out if your key is lost while working or running errands.
If your key is a laser-cut one, you'll need to contact locksmiths that have equipment for these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store isn't likely to provide you with a laser-cut replacement key, as they lack the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.
A locksmith uses an instrument that appears like a standard drill to mill the metal of the key. This will be able to cut the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The unique key's code is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is cut to the specifications of your vehicle.
Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not have any chips or electronics inside of them that can be replaced, which means they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive since they require a full rebuild of the key.
It's a good idea to keep at least one spare key available in case you happen to lose your car key. That way you'll be able call the locksmith to cut it and program it for you so that you'll have access to your car again without needing to pay to have it towed back to the dealership.
Fobs
There's a chance that you don't have an old-fashioned car however, your car likely has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to unlock and start it without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips which need to be programmed in order to work with the vehicle you own. There are locksmiths who can assist you in this process but it's generally recommended to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the necessary tools.
The cost of having your car's key fob replaced could cost as much as $500, depending on the type of key you use and whether it's remote-controlled or smart. That doesn't include the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you might wish to have in the event your key fob goes missing or stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car key was a pain However, now it's a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys that useful and reliable that thieves are able to steal them. The advancements in technology for car keys have made it harder for thieves.
These new keys come in different sizes and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that has an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart key" features an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob, similar to an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to be lost or get tucked away in a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.
If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be duplicated to work with another vehicle, you might be interested in purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a company such as Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who offers programming for many different vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob for less than the price a dealership will charge, saving up to $200 or more. Make sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as your previous to ensure it is programmed to work with your vehicle.