How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road quickly by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
If you lose your keys It is recommended to have a spare. To make this more convenient we've created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big problem. You could simply purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it's more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.
Employing an auto locksmith is the cheapest option. They'll usually be able to copy a basic metal key and do so for around $50 or less. This type of key isn't equipped with a chip, and will not be able unlock doors or start engines.
This is due to the fact that modern car keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to work properly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they are doing, for instance the local locksmith or car dealer service professional.
The cost of a mechanical key is relatively low, but the programming chip in a modern car will usually cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to make sure you always have a backup key and that you keep it somewhere secure.
It's crucial to know the type of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged steel lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. They're not as common however, you should be able find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.
The next type is a transponder car key. It has an embedded security microchip which sends a signal to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and start the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a standard mechanical key, and it is only possible to copy it using specific tools that only a locksmith or dealer in the car industry has access to. The cost for this can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys have an embedded microchip in the key that communicates with your car. When the key is put into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is a wonderful feature to have because it discourages theft. However, it also makes stealing your car more difficult as a burglar will require both the correct key and the transmitter in order to turn your car on and then drive off with it.
A transponder key is a little bit more than a regular one, however, this is because it must be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be capable of programming a transponder key, but it is best to ask your dealership whether they are able to program it also. They are the best choice because they have the most expertise in programming these keys and can offer you a better price.
Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it's important to research the key options prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able find out which type of key is compatible with it, and whether or not it requires an unlocking device via a remote.
Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder password system. These are more complex as they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, because they use rolling-code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that if your key was copied, it will not work in your car.
It is essential that you do not try to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the type of key. This could be a red flag to insurance companies and will cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help you out, especially if they see signs that the vehicle has been damaged or opened. This can make it very hard to get replacement parts, so be sure to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you own a car with a laser-cut key, you'll notice that it's more difficult to lose or be stolen than a traditional metal key. These keys do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove that's cut to a specific depth along the key's face. When looking at the key from the top, it is easy to identify if it's a fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to identify also means that you're not at risk of getting locked out if you lose your key while you're working or running around.
If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to call a professional locksmith who has the necessary equipment to make these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to make you an alternative key that is laser-cut, as they lack the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.
A locksmith will use a machine that appears similar to a standard drill to mill the metal of the key. This will remove the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code will then be found from the VIN, and the key will then be cut to meet the specifications of your car.
Laser-cut keys are not like regular transponder key because they do not contain any electronic components or chips that can be replaced. They have to be destroyed and replaced with an entirely new model. This is why laser-cut keys are so expensive, as they require a total rebuild of the entire key.
Keep a spare car key in your car just in case of. That way you'll be able call the locksmith and cut it and program it for you so that you'll have access to your car again without needing to pay to have it towed back by the dealership.
Fobs
If you don't own a classic car, chances are your vehicle uses one of the most advanced high-tech fobs which allow you to open and start the car without having a key. The keys contain computer chips which need to be programmed to function with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming for you, though it's usually recommended to let your dealer handle it. They have the necessary tools and are familiar with your particular car, which can ensure it's done right.
The cost of replacing your car key fob can be as high as $500, depending on whether it is an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include cost of an electronic backup key that you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car keys was an inconvenience, but now it's an actual issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys so convenient and powerful that thieves are able to take them. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal the keys.
The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, however the one with a transponder as well as mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart key" has a spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob, like an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to be lost or get tucked away in pockets like a coat. These are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealer.
If you have a spare fob that works in your car and can be cloned, consider trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a firm such as Amazon or an independent key and lock specialist which offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob for an affordable price compared to what a dealer will charge, saving up to $200 or more. Make sure automotive car key replacement buy a key and fob that has the same model, year and make as the original to ensure it can be programmed for your vehicle.