How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads.
Before automotive car key replacement lose your key it is recommended to have a spare. We have compiled a guide on how much it costs to replace the car key.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big problem. You could buy a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. However, modern automobiles are much more advanced in technology and it's more expensive to replace the key that was lost.
Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable alternative. They are usually able to duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. However, this kind of key doesn't come with chips 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, such as a local locksmith or a car dealer professional in service.
The cost of mechanical keys is inexpensive, however the programming chip that is used in a modern car will usually cost you more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key in your car and store it safely.
There are five types of car keys available, so it's important to know which one you have before receiving assistance in replacing it. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your vehicle. Keys like these aren't as popular, but you can find them at your local home improvement store for about $10.
The second type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with embedded security microchips which sends a signal to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and start the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key, and it is only possible to copy it using specialized tools that only a locksmith or a dealer in the car industry has access to. It can cost as high as $500 or more based on your car's model and make.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their car. They use an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is close to your vehicle or placed in the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that tells your car to start. This is a wonderful feature to have as it helps to prevent theft. But, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult because a burglar will need both the correct key and the transmitter to start your car and drive away with it.
A transponder key is slightly more than a regular key however, this is because it must be programmed. Most locksmiths will be competent to program keys that have transponders, but it is recommended to inquire with your car dealer if they can do so also. They are the best choice as they have the best knowledge of programming these keys and can offer you a better price.
Many automotive manufacturers have their own distinct anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it is important to research the key options prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which type of key is compatible with it and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Some of the latest cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complicated because they require specialized tools to program them. However they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if the key is copied, it will not work with your car.
Whatever type of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital that you do not attempt to gain entry into your car yourself. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will refuse to assist you if they observe signs that your car was opened or altered. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a replacement key, so you should contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a vehicle that has a laser cut key, you'll see that it's a lot harder to lose or steal 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 set depth up the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to distinguish between a genuine and fake key when you look at it from the top. They are easy to identify, so you won't get locked out if you have your key lost while you're working or running errands.
If your key is a laser-cut one then you'll have to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment for making these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store will not be able 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 use an instrument that resembles the drill used in standard homes to mill the metal of the key. This will reduce the entire surface to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut to your vehicle's specifications.
In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys do not have any chips or electronics inside of them that can be replaced, which means that they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a new key. This is the reason why laser-cut keys can be expensive, as they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.
It's always an excellent idea to have at least one spare key on hand in case you happen to lose your car key. You can then contact a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed, so you can be back in your car without having to pay for it to be tow by the dealer.
Fobs
You might not own an old classic vehicle, but your car probably has one of the most modern high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips which need to be programmed to work with the car you own. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming on your behalf, though it's usually recommended to let your dealer handle it. They have the right tools and are well-versed in your particular car to ensure that the reprogramming is done correctly.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob can be up to $500 based on whether it is a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key you may need in the event your fob is lost or stolen.
The loss of your car keys used to be an inconvenience. It's now a major issue. That's because modern cars have made keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now take keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that comes with an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key inside the same fob. This "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank which folds in the fob to form an e-switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or put in a coat pocket. These are typically pricier than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the assistance of a dealership to replace.
If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and can be copied to work with another vehicle, you might want to consider ordering a replacement aftermarket from a business like Amazon or a key and lock specialist who can program various vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for much less than a dealership charges which could save you up to $200 or more. Just make sure the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as your original to ensure it is programmed to work with your vehicle.