How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It's never a good feeling to lose your car keys. GEICO can help you get back on the road fast by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
It is a good plan to order a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. We have compiled a guide on how much it costs to replace the car key.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, losing or losing the car key was not a big issue. You could purchase an extra and put it in the ignition. However, modern automobiles are much more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace keys that have been lost.
The cheapest method of doing this is to employ an auto locksmith. They are usually able to copy a basic metal key for around $50 or less. However, this type of key doesn't come with a chip and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
This is because modern car keys are equipped with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed to work correctly. This is only done by a professional who knows what they are doing, like a local locksmith or a car dealer professional in service.
The cost of having a mechanical key copied is relatively low however, the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key on hand and keep it in a safe place.
There are five different types of car keys available, therefore it is important to identify the type you have before receiving assistance in replacing it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged steel lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. Keys like these aren't as popular however you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for about $10.
The next type of car key is the transponder key, which has an embedded security chip that transmits a signal to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and allow the engine to start. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be duplicated using specific tools that are only available to a locksmith or dealer of cars. This can cost up to $500 or more, depending on the car's model and make.
Transponder Keys
Cars with transponder keys use microchips inside the key that communicates with your car. When the key is placed close to your car, or when it is inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code which signals your car to start. This feature is great because it deters theft. However, it also makes stealing your car more difficult as a burglar requires both the right key and transmitter in order to turn your car on and drive away with it.
Transponder keys cost just a bit more than a regular one, but that's only because it needs to be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be capable of programming keys that have transponders, but it is recommended to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to do this also. This is because they usually have the most experience with these types of keys and could be able to provide you with an affordable price.
A lot of automakers have their own distinct anti-theft strategies in place. It is essential to conduct your research prior to buying your next car. You should be able find out which kind of key is compatible with it and whether it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.
Some of the latest cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. They are a little more complicated as they require a particular key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, because they employ rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your keys were duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.
It is important that you don't attempt to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the kind of key. This could be a red flag to insurance companies and make mechanics reluctant to assist you in the event of evidence that the vehicle has been altered or forced to open. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a replacement key, so contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a vehicle that has a laser cut key, you'll see 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 edge of the blade - instead there's a winding groove that cuts to a certain depth up the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to tell the difference between a genuine and fake key when you look at it from above. They are easy to spot and you won't be 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 an locksmith who has equipment for these kinds of replacements. Most of the time the hardware store you visit will not be able to create a new laser-cut key because they don't have the equipment required to cut and program these kinds of keys.
A locksmith will employ an instrument that appears like a standard drill to cut the key's metal, which will cut off the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The key's unique code will then be retrieved from the VIN and the key will then be cut according to your vehicle's specifications.
Laser-cut keys are different from a traditional transponder keys since they do not have electronic components or chips that can be replaced. They have to be destroyed and replaced with an entirely new model. This is the reason why laser-cut keys can be expensive, as they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.
It's recommended to keep at least one spare key on hand in case you do accidentally lose your car key. That way you'll be able call the locksmith to cut and program the key for you so that you can have access to your car without having to pay to get it tow-back to the dealership.
Fobs
Unless you own an old classic car, the chances are your vehicle uses one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to unlock and start the car without having a key. These keys come with computer chips that need to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming, but it is usually best to let your dealer do it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the tools needed.
The cost of replacing your car key fob could be as high as $500 depending on whether it's smart key or remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the 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 key was an inconvenience, but now it's a real problem. auto key replacement , CARiD's training director, says that modern cars have made keys so convenient and powerful that thieves are able to steal keys. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal the keys.
The new keys are available in different dimensions and shapes, but the one that comes with transponder and mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart key" comes with an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds into the fob, similar to the switchblade, making it less likely to get lost or tucked inside a coat pocket. These are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealer.
If you have an additional fob that works with your vehicle and that can be cloned to work with another vehicle, you might be interested in purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who can program a variety of vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for much less than a dealership charges and save yourself up to $200 or more. Just make sure the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, make and model as the original so it can be coded to work with your vehicle.