How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It's never a good feeling to lose your car keys. GEICO can help you get back on the road fast with Emergency Roadside Service.
It is a good plan to purchase a spare key before you lose yours. To make it easier we've put together a guide to the cost of replacement car keys. cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big deal. You could simply purchase a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. However, modern automobiles are more technologically advanced and it is more expensive to replace a lost key.
The cheapest way to do this is to employ an auto locksmith. They will usually be capable of copying a standard metal key and do so for around $50 or less. However, this type of key doesn't have chips and will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.
Modern car keys include transponders, or chips, which must be programmed in order to function properly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who knows what they're doing, like a local locksmith or even an auto dealership service professional.
The cost of mechanical keys is inexpensive, however the programming chip that is used in a modern car will usually cost you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is by making sure you always have a backup key, and keep it in a safe place.
There are five different types of car keys, so it's important to know the type you have before seeking help to replace it. A classic, old-fashioned car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your vehicle. These keys aren't as common however you should be able find them at your local hardware store for around $10.
The next type is the transponder car key. This key has embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and begin the engine. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be duplicated using specialized tools, which are only available to a locksmith or dealer in the car. The cost for this could be as high as $500 or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their car. They are equipped with microchips in the keys. 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 is a wonderful feature to have as it deters theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car, as a thief would need both the key and transmitter to turn it on and drive off with it.
The cost of a brand new transponder keys is typically higher than a conventional key, but that is because it must be programmed. Most locksmiths will be capable of programming the transponder key, however it is recommended to ask your car dealership whether they are able to program it as well. They are the best choice because they have the most knowledge of programming these keys and can offer you a better price.
A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms in place. It is crucial to conduct your research before purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able find out what type of key will work with it and if it requires an unlocking device via a remote.
Some newer vehicles come with transponder password systems. These are a bit more complicated because they require a specific key tool to program them. However they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they're used. This means that if your key were cloned it would not work in your car.
It is important that you do not try to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the type of key. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics won't help you if they notice indications that your car has been opened or damaged. It is very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so you should contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you own a car with a laser-cut key, you'll find that it's more difficult to lose or be stolen than a conventional metal key. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edge of the blade - instead there's a groove which cuts to a specific depth across the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to distinguish between a genuine and fake key when you look at it from the top. They are easy to spot, so you won't get locked out if you have your key lost while doing errands or working.
If your key is laser-cut you'll need to call locksmiths that have equipment to make these types of replacements. In the majority of cases the hardware store you visit won't be able make you a new laser-cut key because they don't have the tools needed to cut and program these kinds of keys.
Locksmiths use an apparatus that looks like an ordinary drill to cut the key's metal. This will cut the entire surface until it is the desired length. The unique code of the key is then extracted from the VIN and the key is then cut to the specifications of your vehicle.
In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys don't have any chips or electronics inside them that could be replaced, which means they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are expensive, as they require a total rebuild of the entire key.
It's always an excellent idea to have at least one spare key on hand in the event that you accidentally lose your car key. That way you'll be able call the locksmith and have it cut and programmed for you so that you can gain access to your vehicle again without having to pay to have it tow-back to the dealership.
Fobs
Unless you own an old classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start your car without a key. These keys come with electronic chips that have to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming but it is usually better to let your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and have all the tools needed.
Getting find more replaced could cost up to $500, based on the kind of key you use and if it's remote-controlled or smart. That doesn't include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key you might wish to have in the event your key fob goes missing 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 that easy to use and strong that thieves are able to take them. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in a variety of dimensions and shapes however the most expensive is one that includes an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart key" has an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds into the fob like an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to get lost or get tucked away in the pocket of a coat. They are generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and could require the assistance of a dealership to replace.
If you have a spare key fob that can be used in your car and can be cloned, consider trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a business such as Amazon or an independent locksmith and key company that can program your automobiles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for less than what a dealer charges which could save you around $200 or more. Make sure you buy a fob and a key that has the same model, year and make as your original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.