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 return to the road.
If you lose your keys it is recommended to have a spare. We have compiled a guide on the cost to replace a car key.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big problem. You could purchase an extra and put it in the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more advanced in technology, and it is much more expensive to replace keys lost.
The cheapest method of doing this is to employ an auto locksmith. key replacement for car 'll usually be capable of copying a standard metal key and do so at a cost of $50 or less. This type of key doesn't have a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start an engine.
Modern car keys include transponders, or chips, that need to be programmed properly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they are doing, such as the local locksmith or car dealer service professional.
The cost to get an electronic key copied is relatively cheap however, the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that you always have a backup key, and that you keep it somewhere secure.
It's crucial to know the kind of car key you have before seeking help. An older, standard car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and then turned to start your car. These keys aren't as common, but you can find them at your local home improvement store for around $10.
The next kind of car key is the transponder, which has an embedded security chip that transmits an electronic signal to the car's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key, and it can only be copied with specialized tools that only a locksmith or a dealer can access. It can cost as high as $500 or more, depending on the car's make and model.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys have an embedded microchip in the key to connect with your car. When the key is placed in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it transmits a code to signal your car to begin. This is a great feature to have because it discourages theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car since a burglar would require both the key and transmitter to turn it off and drive off with it.
The cost of purchasing a new transponder keys is typically higher than a traditional key, but only because it needs to be programmed as well. The majority of locksmiths will be able to program keys that have transponders, but it is always best to ask your dealership if they can do so as well. This is because they typically have the most experience with these kinds of keys, and may be able to provide you with an affordable price.
Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it's essential to research all the key options prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which type of key is compatible with it and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Certain newer vehicles have a transponder password system. They are a little more complicated as they require a particular key tool to program them. However they are also more secure as they use rolling code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key is duplicated, it won't work with your vehicle.
It is important to not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the kind of key. This could raise red flags with insurance companies and cause many mechanics to refuse to help particularly if they notice indications that your car has been tampered with or forced to open. This will make it extremely difficult to obtain an exchange, so make certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a vehicle equipped with a laser cut key, you'll find that it's more difficult to lose or be stolen than a traditional key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edges of the blade. Instead there's a winding groove which cuts to a specific depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from the top it's easy to identify if it's a fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to spot also means that you can avoid being locked out if you lose your key while you're working or doing for errands.
If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call locksmiths that have equipment for making these kinds of replacements. Most of the time the hardware store you visit will not be able to create a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the equipment needed to cut and program these types of keys.
A locksmith will employ an instrument that resembles an ordinary drill to mill the key's metal. This will reduce the entire surface to the desired length. The key's unique code will be extracted from the VIN and the key will be cut to match your vehicle's specifications.
Laser-cut keys are not like traditional transponder keys since they do not have electronics or chips that can be changed. They have to be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. Laser-cut keys are expensive since they require a full reconstruction of the key.
Keep at least one spare car key in your car just in the event of. So, car replacement key 'll be able to call the locksmith to cut and program the key for you, so that you'll gain access to your vehicle again without needing to pay to have it tow back by the dealership.
Fobs
You might not have an old classic car, but your car probably has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to open and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys have special electronic chips that have to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Fortunately, some locksmiths can assist you in this process but it's generally better to have your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the necessary tools.
Getting your car key fob replaced can cost up to $500, depending on the type of key you drive and whether it's a smart or remote-controlled. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that the fob goes missing or is stolen.
The loss of your car keys was once a hassle. Now it's a serious problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys that useful and reliable that thieves are able to take them. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in different shapes and sizes, but the most expensive one is one that has the transponder and mechanical key inside the same fob. This "smart key" has an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds up into the fob, similar to a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or get tucked away in pockets like a coat. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealer.
If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be duplicated to work in another vehicle, you might think about purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who offers programming for various vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges and save yourself around $200 or more. Be sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, model and model as your previous to ensure it is programmed to work with your vehicle.