How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads.
It is a good idea to order an extra key before you lose yours. To make it easier we have created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge deal. You could purchase a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it's more costly to replace keys lost.
Employing an auto locksmith is the most affordable alternative. They can usually copy a metal key for less than $50. This type of key isn't equipped with a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start engines.
This is because modern automobile keys are equipped with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to work properly. This can only be done by a professional who understands what they're doing, for instance the local locksmith or an auto dealership service professional.
The cost of mechanical keys is affordable, however the programming chip used in modern cars can cost more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key and keep it in a safe place.
It's crucial to know the type of car keys you own before seeking assistance. A more traditional, older car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and then turned to start your vehicle. Keys like these aren't as popular however you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for around $10.
The next type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip which sends a signal to the computer in the vehicle to open the doors and start the engine. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key and can only be duplicated using specialized tools that are available to a locksmith or dealer in the car. The cost for this could be up to $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your car.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize an embedded microchip in the key to connect with your car. When the key is inserted in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is a great feature to have because it helps to prevent theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car as a thief would need both the key and transmitter to turn it off and drive off with it.
A transponder key is a little bit more than a regular key, however, it's because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with the majority of locksmiths, however you should always inquire with your car dealer if they can do it. They are the best choice as they have the best knowledge of programming these keys and can offer you a better price.
A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it is important to research the key options prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which kind of key works with it and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Some of the latest cars are equipped with a password transponder. These are more complex as they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, since they use rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that even if the key is duplicated, it won't work with your car.
No matter what kind of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital to never attempt to open the door of your vehicle by yourself. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they see signs that your vehicle was opened or damaged. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a replacement key, so make sure you contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you own a car that has a laser cut key, you'll find that it's more difficult to lose or get stolen than a traditional key made of metal. The keys don't have notches cut along the edge of the blade. Instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a certain depth across the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from above, it is easy to tell if it's a fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to spot also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out in the event that you lose your key while you're at work or doing around.
If you have a laser-cut key, then you'll need to call a professional locksmith with the equipment to make these types of replacements. Your local hardware store will not be able to make you an alternative key that is 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 looks very like a regular drill to cut the metal of the key, which will cut off the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique key's code is then extracted from the VIN and the key is then cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.
In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys do not contain any chips or electronics inside them that could be replaced, so they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a brand new key. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are expensive, since they require a total rebuild of the entire key.
It's always an excellent idea to have at least one spare key on hand in the event that you accidentally lose your car key. You can then call an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that you can get back into your vehicle without having pay for it to be tow by the dealer.
Fobs
You may not have an old classic car, but your car probably utilizes the latest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys come with electronic chips that have to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Certain locksmiths can perform this reprogramming, however it's better to let your dealer do it. They have the right tools and are familiar with your particular car and can ensure that it's done correctly.
The cost of replacing your car key fob could be up to $500 based on whether it is a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include cost of an electronic backup key that you may want in case the fob goes missing or is stolen.
The loss of your car key was once a source of frustration. Now, it's a huge issue. This is because modern vehicles have made keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now take keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, but the one that comes with transponder and a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart key" comes with a spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob like an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to get lost or tucked inside pockets like a coat. These are usually more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealer.
If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be cloned to work with another vehicle, you may think about purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a business like Amazon or a key and lock specialist that offers programming for various vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob at a much lower cost than what a dealer will charge, thereby saving up to $200 or more. Be sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, make and model as your original so it can be coded to work with your car.