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 with Emergency Roadside Service.
When how much car key replacement lose your key it is an ideal idea to have a spare. To make this more convenient, we have created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big problem. You could simply purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. However, modern cars are much more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace a lost key.
Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They can usually copy a key made of metal for less than $50. This kind of key does not have chip and won't be able to unlock doors or start engines.
This is due to the fact that modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that have to be programmed in order to work correctly. This can only be done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, for instance an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.
The cost to have an electronic key copied is relatively low however programming the chip in modern cars will typically run you more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it in a safe place.
There are car key replacement remote of car keys, therefore it is important to identify which one you have prior to receiving assistance in replacing it. A more traditional, older car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your vehicle. These aren't common anymore however you should be able find them at your local hardware store for around $10.
The next type is a transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip that sends a message to the car's computers to open the doors and start the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a standard mechanical key, and is only possible to copy it using specific tools that only a locksmith or dealer can access. It could cost you $500 or more, depending on your car's model and make.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by automobiles to connect with their car. They use a microchip in the key. When the key is near to your car, or inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is a wonderful feature to have as it discourages theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car, as a thief would need both the key and the transmitter to turn it on and take off with it.
A transponder key is just a bit more than a regular key, however, it's because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by the majority of locksmiths, however it is best to inquire with your dealer if they can do it. This is because they often have the most experience with these types of keys, and may be able to give you an affordable price.
Many automotive manufacturers have their own unique anti-theft mechanisms in place. This is why it's crucial to research the most important options prior to 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 newer vehicles have a transponder password system. They are more complicated as they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, as they employ rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key has been copied, it will not work with your car.
Whatever type of key you have, it is crucial to never attempt to open the door of your car yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies and cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help in the event of signs that the vehicle has been altered or opened. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a replacement key, so contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.
Laser-Cut Keys
A key that has been laser-cut is much harder to take or lose than a key made of metal. The keys don't have notches 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. This makes it very easy to differentiate between a genuine and fake key when looking at it from above. They are easy to recognize and will not get locked out of your home if your key gets lost while working or running errands.
If you own an uncut laser key, you'll need to call an expert locksmith with the equipment to make these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases the hardware store you visit isn't able to make you a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the machinery required to cut and program these types of key fobs.
A locksmith will employ an apparatus that looks like the drill used in standard homes to mill the metal of the key. This will cut the entire surface to the desired length. The key's unique code will then be extracted from the VIN, and the key will then be cut according to the specifications of your car.
Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not 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 can be extremely expensive due to the full reconstruction of the key.
Keep at least one spare car key in your possession in case of the event of. You can then contact a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so that you can reenter your vehicle without having to pay for it to be towed back to the dealer.
Fobs
Unless you own an old classic car, chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start your vehicle without the need for a key. These keys have special electronic chips that have to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming, however it is usually recommended to let your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are well-versed in the specific vehicle you have and can ensure that it's done right.
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 remote-controlled or smart. That doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key you might want to have in case your key fob goes missing or stolen.
It used to be that losing your car keys was an inconvenience however, it's now an actual issue. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so easy and reliable that thieves are now able to steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal them.
The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the one with transponder and mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart key" features an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob, similar to the switchblade, making it less likely to get lost or get tucked away in a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the help of a dealer to replace.
If you have a spare key fob that can be used in your car and can be duplicated, think about trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or an independent locksmith and key company which offers programming for a variety of automobiles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob for an affordable price compared to what a dealership will charge, thereby saving up to $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a fob and a key that is the identical model, year, and make as the original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.