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 get back on the road.
If you lose your keys, it is an ideal idea to have a spare made. We have compiled a guide on how much it costs to replace the car key.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge issue. You could simply purchase a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more technologically advanced and it's much more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.
The cheapest method of doing this is to hire an auto locksmith. They are usually able to duplicate a metal key for less than $50. This kind of key isn't equipped with a chip, and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start engines.
Modern car keys come with transponders or chips that must be programmed to work properly. This can only by done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, such as the local locksmith or car dealer service professional.
The cost of having an electronic key copied is relatively cheap however, the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to ensure that you have a backup key and keep it somewhere secure.
It's important to identify the type of car key you own before seeking assistance. An older, standard car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and then turned to start your car. These aren't common anymore however you should be able to 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 sends a message to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be duplicated using special tools that are available to a locksmith or dealer in the car. It could cost you $500 or more based on your car's model and make.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys have an embedded microchip in the key to connect with your car. When the key is placed into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to start. This feature is beneficial as it wards off theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult as a burglar will require both the correct key and transmitter to turn your car on and take it away.
The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is typically slightly more expensive than a traditional key, but that is because it must be programmed as well. It is possible to program a transponder key by many locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your car dealer if they are able to do it. This is because they typically have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys and could be able to offer you the most competitive price.
Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems. It is essential to conduct your research before purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which kind of key is compatible with it and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder-based password system. These are more complex as they require special tools to program them. However they are also 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.
No matter what kind of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital to never attempt to open the door of your car yourself. This can raise red flags with insurance companies and could cause many mechanics to refuse to help you out, especially if they see indications that your vehicle has been damaged or forced open. This could make it hard to get an exchange, so make sure to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a vehicle with a laser-cut key, you'll see that it's more difficult to lose or get stolen than a conventional metal key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that is cut to a particular depth in the middle of the face of the key. This makes it very easy to differentiate between a genuine and fake key when looking at it from above. They are easy to spot and will not get locked out if your key is lost while working or running errands.
If you own an uncut laser key, you'll need to talk to a locksmith professional who has the necessary equipment to make these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to create an alternative key that is laser-cut, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.
A locksmith will employ an instrument that resembles an ordinary drill to mill the key's metal. This will cut the entire surface to the desired length. The key's unique code will be extracted from the VIN and the key will then be cut to match your vehicle's specifications.
Laser-cut keys differ from traditional transponder keys since they do not contain any electronic chips or electronics that can be changed. They must be destroyed and replaced by a new one. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are expensive, since they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.
It's always a good idea to keep at least one spare key in your possession in case you do accidentally lose your car key. You can then contact an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can reenter your vehicle without having pay for it to be tow to the dealer.
Fobs
You may not own an old classic vehicle, but your car probably utilizes the latest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that have to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. auto car key replacement are able to do this reprogramming but it is generally better to let your dealer do it. They have the right tools and are well-versed in your specific car and can ensure that it's done correctly.
The cost of having your car's key fob replaced can cost as high as $500, depending on the kind of key you use and whether it's smart or just remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of a mechanical backup key that you may need in the event your fob is lost or stolen.
The loss of your car keys was once a source of frustration. Now it's a serious problem. This is because modern vehicles have made keys so convenient and effective that thieves are now able to steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in different shapes and sizes however the most expensive one is one that has the transponder and mechanical key inside the same fob. This "smart key" features 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 tucked inside a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the help of a dealer to replace.
If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and can be duplicated to work in another vehicle, you may want to consider ordering an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock that offers programming for various vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at less than what a dealer would charge, saving up to $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a fob and a key that has the identical model, year, and make as your original to ensure that it is compatible with your vehicle.