How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It is never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO can help you get back on the road fast with Emergency Roadside Service.
Before you lose your key, it is recommended to have a spare. To make this more convenient 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 huge deal. You could buy an extra key and then use it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace keys that have been lost.
Employing an auto locksmith is the cheapest alternative. They are usually capable of copying a basic metal key and do so for around $50 or less. However, this kind of key doesn't have chips and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
Modern car keys include transponders or chips that must be programmed correctly. This is only done by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, like a local locksmith or even an auto dealership service professional.
The cost to have a mechanical key copied is fairly low, but the programming of the chip in modern cars will usually cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to make sure you have a backup key, and that you keep it somewhere secure.
There are five different types of car keys, so it's important to know which one you have prior to getting help with replacing it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. car key replacement 're not as common however you should be able find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.
The next type is the transponder car key. It has an embedded security microchip that sends a message to the car's computers to open the doors and begin the engine. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical one and is only possible with special tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith car dealer. The cost for this could be as high as $500 or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their vehicle. They are equipped with microchips in the keys. When the key is placed in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is a great feature because it stops theft. However, it makes stealing your car much more difficult because a burglar will require both the correct key and transmitter to turn your car on and drive away with it.
A transponder key costs a little bit more than a regular key, but that's only because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by the majority of locksmiths, however it is best to inquire with your car dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best choice since they have the most expertise in programming these keys and will offer you a better price.
A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it's important to research the key options prior to purchasing your next car. 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 vehicles come with a transponder password system. These are more complicated as they require a particular key tool to program them. However, they are more secure as they use 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 essential that you don't attempt to break into your car on your own, no matter the type of key. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will refuse to assist you if they observe signs that your vehicle has been forced open or altered. This will make it extremely hard to get replacement parts, so be certain to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
You'll find a laser-cut key is much more difficult to steal or lose than a metal key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edge of the blade - instead there's a groove that cuts to a certain depth across the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to distinguish between authentic and fake keys when you look at it from above. The fact that they're so easy to recognize also means that you can avoid being locked out if you happen to misplace your keys while working or doing around.
If your key is a laser-cut one, you'll need to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment to make these types of replacements. Most of the time your local hardware store isn't able to create a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the machinery needed to cut and program these kinds of keys.
A locksmith will employ an apparatus that looks like the drill used in standard homes to cut the metal of the key. This will cut the entire surface until it is the desired length. The key's unique code will be retrieved from the VIN, and the key will be cut to match your vehicle's specifications.
Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys don't have any electronics or chips inside that can be replaced, which means that they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys are expensive since they require a full reconstruction of the key.
It's recommended to keep at least one spare key on hand in case you do accidentally lose your car key. So you'll be able contact the locksmith to cut it and program it for you so that you'll gain access to your vehicle again, without having to pay to get it towed back at the dealership.
Fobs
If you do not own a classic car, the chances are your vehicle uses one of the latest high-tech fobs which allow you to unlock and start your car without a key. These keys come with computer chips that need to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming, however it is generally better to let your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and have all the tools needed.
The cost of replacing your car key fob could be up to $500 based on whether it is smart key or remote-controlled key. That's not even including the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key you might wish to have in the event your fob is lost or stolen.
It used to be that losing your car key was an inconvenience however, it's now a major issue. The reason is that modern cars have made the keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now take keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal them.
The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, however the one with a transponder as well as mechanical keys is the most expensive. automotive key replacement comes with a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob like the switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or put in a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and could require the assistance of a dealership to replace.
If you have a spare fob that works in your car and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a firm such as Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key specialist that offers programming for many automobiles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges and save yourself as much as $200 or more. Make sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, model and model as the original to ensure it is programmed to work with your vehicle.