How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing your car keys is never a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.
It is a good idea to purchase a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. We have compiled a list on how much it costs to replace the car key.
Mechanical Keys
Not long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big deal. You could purchase a spare and simply use it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it's much more expensive to replace lost keys.
The most affordable method to accomplish this is to get an auto locksmith. They will usually be capable of copying a standard metal key and do so at a cost of $50 or less. This type of key doesn't have a chip, and will not be able unlock doors or start engines.
This is because modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed in order to work correctly. This is only done by a professional who knows what they are doing, such as the local locksmith or car dealer professional who is a service expert.
The cost of having an electronic key copied is relatively cheap, but the programming of the chip in modern cars will typically run you more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key in your car and keep it safe.
It's important to identify the type of car key you have before seeking help. A more traditional, older car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your car. These aren't common anymore, but you should be able find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.
The second type of car key is the transponder key with an embedded security chip that sends a signal to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and enable the engine to start. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate than a standard mechanical key, and is only possible to copy it using specialized tools that only a locksmith or a dealer in the car industry has access to. It could cost you $500 or more depending on your car's make and model.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys have a microchip inside of the key to connect with your car. When the key is put in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is an excellent feature to have since it discourages theft. However, it makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar will require both the correct key and transmitter in order to turn your car on and then drive off with it.
The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is usually higher than a standard key, but that is because it has to be programmed. Locksmiths are generally competent to program keys that have transponders, but it is always best to ask your dealership whether they are able to program it also. They are the best option because they have the most experience in programming these keys, and they can give you a better rate.
Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. It is important to do your research prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able to find out which kind of key is compatible with it and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.
Certain newer vehicles have transponder password systems. They are more complicated as they require special tools to program them. However they are also more secure as they use rolling code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your key were copied, it will not work in your car.
Regardless of what type of key you've got regardless of the type, it is essential to never attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies and will cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help you out particularly if they notice evidence that the vehicle has been damaged or forced to open. It will be very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so make sure you contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll see that it's more difficult to lose or get stolen than a traditional key made of metal. These keys have no notches cut along the edge of the blade - instead, there's a winding groove which cuts to a specific depth across the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to distinguish between authentic and fake keys when you look at it from above. They are easy to recognize, so you won't get locked out if you have your key lost while you're working or running errands.
If you own keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to talk to a locksmith professional who has the necessary equipment to make these types of replacements. Most of the time, your local hardware store won't be able make you an original laser-cut key since they don't have the tools needed to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.
A locksmith will employ an instrument that resembles the drill used in standard homes to mill the metal of the key. This will remove the entire surface to the desired length. The key's unique code will be extracted from the VIN, and the key will be cut according to the specifications of your car.
Unlike replacement for key fob , laser-cut keys don't have any electronics or chips inside them that could be replaced, which means that they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive due to the complete rebuild of the key.
It's always an excellent idea to have at least one spare key in your possession in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. This way you'll be able contact the locksmith to cut it and program it for you, so that you can have access to your car again without having to pay to have it towed back at the dealership.
Fobs
If you do not own a classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs which allow you to unlock and start your car without having a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Fortunately, some locksmiths can assist you in this process, though it's usually best to have your dealer handle it. They have the right tools and are familiar with the specific vehicle you have to ensure that the reprogramming is done right.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob can be up to $500 based on whether it's a smart key or a remote-controlled key. That's not even including the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you may want to have in case your fob gets lost or stolen.
Losing your car key was once a source of frustration. It's now a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern cars have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves are able to take them. The advances in the technology of car keys have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys come in various sizes and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that comes with an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key within the same fob. The "smart" key comes with a spring-loaded shank which can fold into the fob in the same way as an e-switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or hidden into a coat pocket. These are typically pricier than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the help of a dealership to replace.
If you have a spare fob that is in your vehicle and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business such as Amazon or an independent locksmith and key specialist that can program your vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges and save yourself up to $200 or more. Make sure you purchase the fob and key that is the same year, model and make as the original to ensure it can be programmed to your vehicle.