How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It's never a good feeling to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.
If you lose your keys it is a good idea to have a spare. To make it easier we've created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big issue. You could just purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. However, today's cars are more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace the key that was lost.
Employing an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They are usually 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 won't be able to unlock doors or start an engine.
Modern car keys have transponders, or chips, that need to be programmed properly. This is only done by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, such as the local locksmith or an auto dealership service professional.
replacement key for car near me to have an electronic key copied is fairly low however programming the chips in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that you have a backup key, and keep it somewhere safe.
There are five distinct kinds of car keys, so it's important to know the type you have before seeking help to replace it. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder and then turned to start your car. These keys aren't as common, but they are available at your local home improvement store for about $10.
The second type of car key is the transponder with an embedded security chip that sends an alert to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and can only be done with specific tools that are accessible to a locksmith or dealer of cars. The cost of this service can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys have a microchip inside of the key to communicate with your car. When the key is near to your car or when it is inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is a great feature as it wards off theft. However, it makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar will need both the correct key and the transmitter in order to start your car and drive away with it.
Transponder keys cost a little bit more than a regular key however, it's because it needs to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be competent to program keys that have transponders, but it is best to ask your dealership if they can do so as well. This is because they typically have the most experience with these kinds of keys and could be able to offer you a more competitive price.
Many automotive manufacturers have their own unique anti-theft systems in place. It is essential to conduct your research before purchasing your next car. You should be able to figure out which type of key works with it and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.
Certain newer vehicles have transponder password systems. These are more complicated because they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, as they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if the key is duplicated, it won't work with your car.
It is crucial that you do not try to break into your car by yourself, regardless of the type of key. This can raise red flags with insurance companies and could cause many mechanics to refuse to help particularly if they notice indications that your vehicle has been damaged or forced open. This can make it very difficult to obtain a replacement, so be certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a vehicle with a laser-cut key, you'll see that it's much harder to lose or get 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 set depth across the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to tell the difference between genuine and fake keys when you look at it from the top. The fact that they're so easy to spot also means that you're not at risk of being locked out in the event that you happen to misplace your keys while working or doing errands.
If your key is a laser-cut one, you'll need to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment for making these kinds of replacements. In most cases, your local hardware store isn't able to make an original laser-cut key since they don't have the tools required to cut and program these types of key fobs.
A locksmith will employ a machine that looks very similar to a standard drill to mill the key's metal, which will cut off the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The unique key's code is then obtained from the VIN and the key is cut to your vehicle's specifications.
Laser-cut keys are not like normal transponder keys because they do not contain any electronic chips or electronics 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 total rebuild of the entire key.
Have at least one spare car key in your possession in case of the event of. So you'll be able call the locksmith and cut it and program it for you so that you have access to your car again, without needing to pay to have it tow back to the dealership.
Fobs
Unless you own an old classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start the car without having a key. These keys have special electronic chips that have to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. There are locksmiths who can perform this reprogramming on your behalf but it's generally recommended to let your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are well-versed in your particular car to ensure that the reprogramming is 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 that you might need in the event that your fob gets lost or stolen.
It used to be that losing your car keys was a hassle However, now it's a real problem. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so convenient and capable that thieves are now able to steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in the technology of car keys have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in various shapes and sizes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that comes with a transponder and a mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart" key has an elongated shank that is spring loaded and can fold into the fob in the same way as a switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or hidden in a pocket of a coat. These are typically pricier than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.
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 company like Amazon or a third-party key and lock specialist that can program your automobiles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge, saving yourself up to $200 or more. Be sure to purchase the fob and key that's the identical model, year, and model as your original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.