How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing your car keys is not a pleasant experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road quickly by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
Before you lose your key it is an ideal idea to have a spare made. We have put together a guide on how much it costs to replace a car key.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, losing or losing a car key was no big issue. You could simply purchase a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. However, today's cars are much more advanced in technology and it is more expensive to replace the key that was lost.
Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They are usually able to duplicate a metal key for less than $50. This kind of key isn't equipped with chip and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start an engine.
This is due to the fact that modern car keys are equipped with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed to work properly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they're doing, for instance an auto locksmith in your area or an auto dealership service professional.
The cost to have an electronic key copied is relatively cheap however, the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to make sure you always have a backup key and keep it in a safe place.
It is important to determine the type of car keys you have before seeking help. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your car. These aren't common anymore, but you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for about $10.
The next type is a transponder car key. replacements car key is equipped with embedded security microchips which sends a signal to the car's computers to open the doors and begin the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate than a basic mechanical key, and it can only be copied using special tools that only a locksmith or dealer can access. The cost of this service can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your car.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their vehicle. They use microchips in the keys. When the key is inserted into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it sends an encoded code that allows your car to start. This is an excellent feature to have since it deters theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car because a burglar will need both the key and transmitter to turn it on before they could take off with it.
Transponder keys cost slightly more than a regular key, but that's only because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by many locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your dealer about whether they can do it. They are the best choice since they have the most experience in programming these keys and will give you a better rate.
Many automotive manufacturers have their own distinct anti-theft systems in place. It is essential to conduct your research prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able find out which type of key is compatible with it and if it requires an unlocking device via a remote.
Certain newer vehicles have a transponder-based password system. These are a bit more complicated as they require a special key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, because they employ rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your key was 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 cause alarms to insurance companies. Many mechanics will not assist you if they see signs that your car was opened or tampered with. It will be very difficult to obtain a new key, so make sure you contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
A key that has been laser-cut is much harder to take or lose than a metal key. The keys don't have a notch along the edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a specific depth along the face of the key. This makes it very easy to distinguish between a genuine and fake key when you look at it from above. They are easy to spot, so you won't get locked out of your home if your key gets lost while doing errands or working.
If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call locksmiths that have equipment to make these types of replacements. Your local hardware store is unlikely to be able make you the replacement key laser-cut since they do not have the tools to cut and program this kind of key fob.
A locksmith will use a machine that appears similar to a standard drill to mill the metal of the key, which will remove 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 then cut to your vehicle's specifications.
Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not contain any chips or electronics inside that can be replaced, which means that they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys are expensive because they require a full reconstruction of the key.
Have at least one spare car key in your possession in case of case of. Then, you can call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed, so you can reenter your vehicle without having pay for it to be towed by the dealer.
Fobs
If you do not own a classic car, chances are your vehicle uses one of the latest high-tech fobs which allow you to open and start your car without a key. These keys have special computer chips that must be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able to assist you in this process but it's generally recommended to let your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are knowledgeable about your particular car to ensure that the reprogramming is done right.
The cost of replacing your car key fob could be up to $500 based on whether it's smart key or remote-controlled key. That's not even including the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you may need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.
It used to be that losing your car key was a hassle However, now it's a real problem. That's because modern cars have made the keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal keys.
These new keys come in different dimensions and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that includes a transponder and a mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart" key has an elongated shank that is spring loaded and folds into the fob like the switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or hidden in a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be cloned to work in another vehicle, you might want to consider ordering an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who can program many different vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for less than what a dealer charges and save yourself up to $200 or more. Be sure to purchase a key and fob that's the identical model, year, and make as your original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.