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 return to the roads.
It is a good plan to purchase a spare key before you lose yours. To make this more convenient we have created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big issue. You could purchase a spare and simply use it in the ignition. However, today's cars are much more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace a lost key.
The cheapest way to do this is to hire an auto locksmith. They can usually copy a metal key for less than $50. This kind of key does not have a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start engines.
This is because modern automobile keys are equipped with transponders or chips that have to be programmed to work correctly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who knows what they're doing, for instance the local locksmith or an auto dealership service professional.
The cost to get an electronic key copied is relatively cheap however, the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is by making sure you have a backup key, and that you keep it somewhere safe.
There are five different types of car keys, so it's crucial to know the type you have before getting help with replacing it. A more traditional, older car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and then turned to turn on your car. These keys aren't as common however you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.
The second type of car key is a transponder key, which has an embedded security chip that transmits an electronic signal to the car's computer system to unlock the doors and allow the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be copied with specialized tools that only a locksmith or dealer can access. The cost for this could be as high as $500 or more, based on the make and model of your car.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their vehicle. They are equipped with an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is put in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it sends a code to signal your car to start. This is a great feature to have as it deters theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult because a burglar requires both the right key and the transmitter in order to turn on your car and drive away with it.
The cost of a brand new transponder keys is typically higher than a standard key, but that is because it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by most locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your car dealer if they can do it. They are the best option as they have the best experience in programming these keys, and they can provide you with a better price.
Many automakers have their own anti-theft strategies in place. It is essential to conduct your research prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which kind of key is compatible with it and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder. They are a little more complex as they require a particular key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, since they employ rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your keys were cloned it would not work in your car.
It is crucial that you don't attempt to break into your car by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics will not assist you if they see signs that your vehicle has been forced open or damaged. This could make it hard to get a replacement, so be sure to speak with an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
A key that has been laser-cut is much harder to steal or lose than a key made of metal. These keys have no notches cut along the edges of the blade. Instead there's a groove that cuts to a certain depth across the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from above it's easy to identify if it's a fake or not. They are easy to recognize and will not get locked out of your home if your key gets lost while working or running errands.
If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact locksmiths that have equipment for making these kinds of replacements. In most cases, your local hardware store isn't able to make a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the equipment needed to cut and program these types of key fobs.
A locksmith uses a machine that looks very similar to a standard drill to cut the key's metal, which will cut off 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 match the specifications of your vehicle.
Laser-cut keys differ from traditional transponder keys since they don't contain electronic components or chips that can be replaced. They must be destroyed and replaced with the new model. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive because they require a complete rebuild of the key.
Keep at least one spare car key in your car just in case. You can then contact a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so you can get back into your car without having to pay for it to be tow by the dealer.
Fobs
You may not have an old classic car however, your car likely has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to open and start it without a traditional key. The keys contain computer chips that must be programmed in order to work with the car you own. Some locksmiths are able to assist you in this process, though it's usually better to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the tools needed.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob can be as high as $500 depending on whether it's a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key you may want in case your fob is lost or stolen.
Losing your car key used to be an inconvenience. Now, it's a huge problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern cars have made keys so convenient and powerful that thieves are able to take keys. The advances in technology for car keys have made it harder for thieves.
These new keys come in a variety of sizes and shapes and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that comes with a transponder and a mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank which can fold into the fob in the same way as a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or tucked in a pocket of a coat. These keys are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be copied to work in a different vehicle, you may want to consider ordering an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock that offers programming for a variety of vehicles. g28carkeys may find you can cut and program your own fob for much cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge which could save you around $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a key and fob that's the identical model, year, and make as the original to ensure it can be programmed to your vehicle.
