How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It's never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads.
It is a good plan to buy a spare key before you lose yours. To make this more convenient, we have put together a guide to the cost of replacement car keys. cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not long ago, misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big deal. You could buy an extra and put it in the ignition. However, today's cars are more technologically advanced and it is more expensive to replace a lost key.
An auto locksmith can be the most affordable alternative. They will usually be able to copy a basic metal key for around $50 or less. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with chips and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
Modern car keys include transponders, or chips, that need to be programmed to work properly. This is only done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, for instance a local locksmith or a car dealer professional in service.
The cost to have an electronic key copied is relatively low however programming the chips in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to make sure you have a backup key, and keep it somewhere safe.
It is important to determine the type of car key you own before seeking assistance. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your car. These keys aren't as common however you can find them at your local home improvement store for about $10.
The second type is the transponder car key. It has embedded security microchips 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 only accessible to a locksmith or car dealer. The cost for this could be as high as $500 or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their car. They incorporate microchips in the keys. When the key is near to your vehicle or inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code which signals your car to start. This feature is beneficial because it deters theft. But, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult because a burglar will require both the correct key and the transmitter to turn on your car and take it away.
Transponder keys cost a little bit more than a regular one, however, this is because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by most locksmiths, but you should always ask your dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best option because they have the most experience in programming these keys and can give you a better rate.
Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. auto key replacement is why it's essential to research all the key options prior to buying your next car. You should be able to find out which type of key it is compatible with and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.
Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder system. These are more complex as they require a special key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, because they utilize rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your keys were cloned it would not work in your car.
Whatever type of key you've got regardless of the type, it is essential that you never try to open the door of your vehicle by yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics will not assist you if they observe signs that your vehicle has been opened or damaged. It is very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so you should contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a vehicle that has a laser cut key, you'll find that it's more difficult to lose or be stolen than a traditional metal key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edge of the blade. Instead there's a 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 whether it's a fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to spot also means that you can avoid being locked out if you happen to misplace your keys while working or running errands.
If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call locksmiths that have equipment to make these types of replacements. The hardware store you visit isn't likely to create the replacement key laser-cut since they do not have the tools to cut and program this type of key fob.
A locksmith will employ an instrument that appears like a regular drill to mill the metal of the key, which will be able to cut the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The unique key's code is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is cut to your vehicle's specifications.
Laser-cut keys are different from a regular transponder key because they do not have electronics or chips which can be altered. They have to be destroyed and replaced with a new one. auto key replacement is the reason why laser-cut keys can be expensive, since they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.
It's recommended to keep at least one spare key in your possession in the event that you accidentally lose your car key. You can then call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed, so you can get back into your vehicle without having pay for it to be towed by the dealer.
Fobs
You may not own an old classic vehicle however, your car likely has one of the most modern high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys come with electronic chips that have to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Fortunately, some locksmiths can assist you in this process but it's generally best to have your dealer handle it. They have the right tools and are well-versed in the specific vehicle you have and can ensure that it's done right.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob can be as high as $500, depending on whether it is a smart key or a remote-controlled key. That doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key you might wish to have in the event your fob is 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 the modern automobiles have made keys so convenient and powerful that thieves are able to take them. The advancements in technology for car keys have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.
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 comes with an elongated shank that is spring loaded and folds in the fob to form the switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or put in a pocket of a coat. These keys are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealer.
If you have a spare key fob that is in your car and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a firm such as Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key specialist that offers programming for many vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge which could save you as much as $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 car.