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 get back on the road.
It is a good idea to purchase an extra key before you lose yours. We have put together a guide on the cost to replace the car key.
Mechanical Keys
Not long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no 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 the key that was lost.
Employing an auto locksmith is the most affordable alternative. They are usually capable of copying a standard metal key for about $50 or less. This type of key isn't equipped with a chip, and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start an engine.
Modern car keys include transponders or chips that must be programmed properly. This is only done by a professional who knows what they're doing, such as an auto locksmith in your area or an auto dealership service professional.
The cost of mechanical keys is inexpensive, however the programming chip in modern cars can cost you more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key and keep it safe.
It is important to determine 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 then turned to start your car. These keys aren't as common however, you can find them at your local home improvement store for around $10.
The next type is the transponder car key. It has embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be done with special tools that are only accessible to a locksmith car dealer. The cost for this can be up to $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their car. They are equipped with a microchip in the key. When the key is close to your car or when it is inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that tells your car to start. This is an excellent feature to have as it helps to prevent theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar will require both the correct key and the transmitter to turn on your car and then drive off with it.
The cost of a brand new transponder key is typically higher than a standard key, but only because it has to be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be capable of programming keys that have transponders, but it is recommended to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to do this also. They are the best choice since they have the most experience in programming these keys and can provide you with a better price.
Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems. It is important to do your research prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able find out which type of key will work with it and if it requires an unlocking device via a remote.
Some newer cars come equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complex as they require a specific key tool to program them. However they are also more secure as they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they're used. This means that even if your key is cloned, it will not work with your car.
Whatever type of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital that you never try to open the door of your car yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics will not assist you if they observe signs that your car was opened or damaged. It is very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a vehicle that has a laser cut key, you'll see that it's much harder to lose or get stolen than a traditional key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edges of the blade. Instead there's car replacement keys winding groove which cuts to a specific depth up the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from above, it is easy to tell if it's a fake or not. The fact that they're easy to recognize also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out in the event that you happen to misplace your keys while at work or running around.
If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you will need to contact a locksmith professional with the equipment to make these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases your local hardware store won't be able make you an original laser-cut key since they don't have the tools required to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.
A locksmith will employ a machine that appears like a regular drill to cut the metal of the key, which will cut off the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code can be retrieved from the VIN, and the key will be cut to meet the specifications of your car.
Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not have any chips or electronics inside them that could be replaced, which means they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive due to the full rebuild of the key.
It's always an excellent idea to have at least one spare key available in case you happen to lose your car keys. This way, you'll be able to call the locksmith and cut it and program it for you, so that you have access to your car again, without having to pay to have it tow back by the dealership.
Fobs
Unless you own an old classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs which allow you to open and start your car without a key. The keys contain computer chips that must be programmed to work with the car you own. There are locksmiths who can do this reprogramming for you however it's recommended to let your dealer do it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the tools needed.
The cost of replacing your car key fob can be up to $500 based on whether it's smart key or remote-controlled key. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key you may need in the event the fob goes missing or is stolen.
It used to be that losing your car key was an inconvenience, but now it's a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern cars have made keys so convenient and powerful that thieves can steal keys. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal them.
The new keys come in different shapes and sizes and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that comes with the transponder and mechanical key in the same fob. The "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank that can fold into the fob in the same way as the switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or tucked in a pocket of a coat. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealer.
If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be copied to work with another vehicle, you may be interested in purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who can program many different vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges, saving yourself up to $200 or more. Just make sure the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, make and model as the original so that it can be programmed to work with your car.