How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the roads.
Before you lose your key It is a good idea to have a spare. To make this more convenient we have created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, losing or losing the car key was not a big problem. You could buy an extra and put it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and it is much more expensive to replace keys lost.
Employing an auto locksmith is the cheapest alternative. They'll usually be capable of copying a basic metal key for about $50 or less. This kind of key doesn't have chip and won't be able to unlock doors or start an engine.
Modern car keys have transponders, or chips, that must be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they are doing, for instance the local locksmith or car dealer professional in service.
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. It is recommended to keep a spare key and keep it safe.
There are five distinct types of car keys available, therefore it is important to identify the type you have before seeking help to replace it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged metal lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to start your car. These keys aren't as common however they are available at your local home improvement store for $10.
The next type of car key is a transponder key, which has an embedded security chip that sends an alert to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be done with specific tools that are only accessible to a locksmith or dealer in the car. It could cost you $500 or more, depending on the car's model and make.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their vehicle. They incorporate a microchip in the key. When the key is placed in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it transmits an encoded code that allows your car to start. This is a wonderful feature to have because it helps to prevent theft. However, it also makes stealing your car more difficult since a thief will need both the correct key and transmitter to turn on your car and then drive off with it.
A transponder key costs just a bit more than a regular key, however, it's because it has to be programmed. Locksmiths are generally competent to program keys that have transponders, but it is recommended to ask your dealership whether they are able to do this as well. This is because they typically have the most experience with these types of keys and could be able to give you the most competitive price.
Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it is important to research the key options prior to buying your next car. You should be able find out which type of key will work with it, and whether or not it requires a remote to unlock it.
Certain newer vehicles have a transponder-based password system. These are more complex as they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, as they employ rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if the key is cloned, it will not work with your car.
Regardless of what type of key you've got, it is crucial to never attempt to break into your own car yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies. Many mechanics won't help you if they see signs that your car was opened or altered. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a new key, so make sure you contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
A key that has been laser-cut is much harder to steal or lose than a metal key. These keys do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they have a groove cut to a certain depth along the key's face. When you look at the key from above it's easy to tell whether it's fake or not. They are easy to spot and you won't be locked out if your key is lost while you're working or running errands.
If your key is a laser-cut one, you'll need to contact an locksmith who has equipment for these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store is unlikely to be able make you the replacement key laser-cut because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.
A locksmith will employ an instrument that appears like a standard drill to cut the metal of the key, which will remove 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.
In cost for car key replacement to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys don't have any electronic components or chips inside 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, since they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.
It's recommended to keep at least one spare key on hand in case you happen to lose your car key. You can then contact a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can reenter your vehicle without having to pay for it to be tow by the dealer.
Fobs
You may not have an old-fashioned car, but your car probably uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to open and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips which need to be programmed in order to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming, but it is usually best 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 right.
The cost of replacing your car key fob can be as high as $500 depending on whether it is a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key that you may want in case your fob is lost or stolen.
The loss of your car key was once a source of frustration. Now it's a serious problem. This is because modern vehicles have made keys so easy and reliable that thieves are now able to steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal the keys.
These new keys come in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that has the transponder and mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart key" features an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob, similar to the switchblade, making it less likely to be lost or get tucked away in pockets like a coat. These keys are usually more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealer.
If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be duplicated to work in a different vehicle, you may want to consider ordering a replacement aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who can program a variety of vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob for a much lower cost than what a dealership will charge, costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure you buy a key and fob that has the identical model, year, and make as your original to ensure it can be programmed to your vehicle.