How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road quickly with Emergency Roadside Service.
It is a good plan to buy a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. We have compiled a guide on how much it costs to replace a car key.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big problem. You could buy a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. However, modern automobiles are much more technologically advanced and it is more expensive to replace a lost key.
The most affordable method to accomplish this is to employ an auto locksmith. They can usually copy a key made of metal for less than $50. However, this type of key doesn't have a chip and won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
This is because modern car keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed to function properly. This can only be done by a professional who understands what they're doing, like a local locksmith or even an auto dealership service professional.
The cost to get a mechanical key copied is fairly low however, the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to make sure you have a backup key, and keep it somewhere secure.
It's important to identify the kind of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your vehicle. These keys aren't as common however, you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.
The next kind of car key is the transponder key, which has an embedded security chip that transmits an alert to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and enable the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key, and it can only be copied with specialized tools that only a locksmith or dealer in the car industry has access to. The cost for this can be as high as $500 or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize a microchip inside of the key that communicates with your car. When the key is placed close to your vehicle or when it is inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code which signals your car to begin. This feature is beneficial as it wards off theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car since a burglar would require both the key and transmitter to turn it off and take off with it.
Transponder keys cost slightly more than a regular one, but that's only because it has to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be able to program keys that have transponders, but it is recommended to ask your dealership whether they are able to do this as well. They are the best choice since they have the most expertise in programming these keys, and they can give you a better rate.
A lot of automakers have their own unique anti-theft systems in place. It is crucial to conduct your research prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to figure out which type of key works with it and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder. These are more complicated as they require a specific key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, since they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key is cloned, it will not work with your car.
Regardless of what type of key you've got regardless of the type, it is essential that you never try to break into your own vehicle by yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they observe signs that your vehicle was opened or altered. This can make it very difficult to obtain an exchange, so make sure to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
You'll find a laser-cut key is much harder to steal or lose than a key made of metal. car key replacements do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove that's cut to a certain depth along the key's face. When you look at the key from above it's easy to determine if it's a fake or not. The fact that they're easy to spot also means that you're not at risk of getting locked out if you happen to misplace your key while you're working or running for errands.
If you have a laser-cut key, then you'll need to call an expert locksmith who has the right equipment to create these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit isn't likely to provide you with the replacement key laser-cut because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.
Locksmiths use an instrument that resembles a standard drill in order to cut the key's metal. This will remove the entire surface to the desired length. The key's unique code will be retrieved from the VIN and the key will be cut according to your vehicle's specifications.
Laser-cut keys differ from traditional transponder keys since they don't contain electronics or chips that can be changed. They have to be destroyed and replaced with the new model. This is why laser-cut keys can be expensive, as they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.
Keep at least one spare car key in your possession in case of case of. So, you'll be able to call the locksmith to have it cut and programmed for you so that you gain access to your vehicle again, without having to pay to have it towed back at the dealership.
car key replacements may not own an old classic vehicle but your vehicle probably utilizes the latest high-tech fobs to unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that need to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. There are locksmiths who can assist you in this process, though it's usually recommended to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the necessary tools.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob can be up to $500 based on whether it's smart key or remote-controlled key. That doesn't include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key that you may wish to have in the event your fob is lost or stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car keys was a hassle, but now it's a real problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys that easy to use and strong that thieves can steal them. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in different dimensions and shapes, but the most expensive is one that has the transponder and mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob like an e-switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or hidden in a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealer.
If you have a spare fob that works in your vehicle and could be cloned, consider trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a firm like Amazon or an independent key and lock specialist that offers programming for many vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob at an affordable price compared to what a dealer will charge, thereby saving up to $200 or more. Make sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, make and model as your previous so that it can be programmed to work with your car.