How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing keys to your car is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the roads.
It is a good plan to purchase an extra key before you lose yours. To make this easier we've created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big issue. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and it's much more expensive to replace keys lost.
Employing an auto locksmith is the cheapest alternative. They usually can duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. This type of key doesn't have a chip, and will not be able unlock doors or start an engine.
This is because modern automobile keys come with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed to work correctly. This can only be done by a professional who understands what they're doing, for instance an auto locksmith in your area or a car dealership service professional.
The cost of a mechanical key is relatively low, but the programming chip in modern cars can cost you more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key on hand and keep it in a safe place.
There are five different types of car keys available, so it's crucial to know which one you have before getting help with replacing it. A more traditional, older car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your car. They're not as common, but you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for around $10.
The next type is the transponder car key. It has embedded security microchips that sends a message to the computer in the vehicle to unlock the doors and start the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate than a standard mechanical key, and is only possible to copy it using specialized tools that only a locksmith or car dealer has access to. This can cost up to $500 or more, depending on the car's model and make.
Transponder Keys
Cars with transponder keys use an embedded microchip in the key to communicate with your car. When the key is close to your car or placed in the ignition, it transmits an electronic code which signals your car to begin. This feature is great because it deters theft. However, it makes stealing your car more difficult as a burglar requires both the right key and the transmitter to turn your car on and take it away.
The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is typically a little more expensive than a conventional key, but this is due to the fact that it must be programmed as well. It is possible to program a key transponder with most locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best option since they have the most knowledge of programming these keys, and they can provide you with a better price.
A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems. It is important to do your research prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which type of key is compatible with it and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.
Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder. They are a little more complicated as they require a specific key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, as they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that if your keys were copied, it will not work in your car.
It is important that you do not try to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the kind of key. This can cause alarms to insurance companies and will cause many mechanics to refuse to assist you particularly if they notice indications that your car has been tampered with or opened. This can make it very difficult to obtain a replacement, so be certain to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
You'll find a laser-cut key is much harder to steal or lose than a key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edge of the blade. Instead there's a groove that cuts to a set depth up the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from above, it is easy to identify whether it's fake or not. They are easy to spot and will not get locked out if you have your key lost while doing errands or working.
If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to talk to a professional locksmith who has the necessary equipment to make these types of replacements. In the majority of cases the hardware store you visit isn't able to create a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the equipment needed to cut and program these types of key fobs.
A locksmith will use an apparatus that looks like the drill used in standard homes to mill the key's metal. This will reduce all the surface to the desired length. The unique key's code is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut to your vehicle's specifications.
Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys don't have any electronics or chips inside them that could be replaced, so they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys are expensive since they require a complete rebuild of the key.
cost of replacement car keys 's an excellent idea to have at least one spare key on hand in case you happen to lose your car key. This way you'll be able call the locksmith to have it cut and programmed for you so that you gain access to your vehicle again, without having to pay to have it tow-back at the dealership.
Fobs
You may not own an old classic vehicle but your vehicle probably uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to open and start it without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that have to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Some locksmiths are able perform this reprogramming, however it is usually recommended to let your dealer do it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the necessary tools.
The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced could cost as much as $500, based on the kind of key you use and whether it's a smart or remote-controlled. This does not include the cost of a mechanical backup key you may want in case your fob gets lost or stolen.
It used to be that losing your car key was an inconvenience However, now it's a real problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys so easy to use and strong that thieves are able to take keys. The advances in technology for car keys have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys come in a variety of dimensions and shapes however the most expensive is one that includes a transponder and a mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart key" comes with a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or tucked inside a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and could require the assistance of a dealer to replace.
If you have a spare fob that is in your car and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a firm such as Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key specialist which offers programming for a variety of automobiles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges, saving yourself as much as $200 or more. Be sure to purchase a fob and a key that has the same year, model and make as your original to ensure that it can be programmed for your vehicle.