How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of your car keys is never a pleasant experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road fast by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
It is a good idea to order an extra key before you lose yours. To make this more convenient we have created a list of the cost of replacement car keys. cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big problem. You could buy a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. However, modern cars are much more advanced in technology and it's more costly to replace the key that was lost.
Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable alternative. They'll usually be capable of copying a standard metal key and do so for about $50 or less. However, this type of key doesn't come with an electronic chip, and therefore isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
Modern car keys include transponders, also known as chips, that must be programmed to work properly. This can only by done by a professional that knows what they are doing, like a local locksmith or a car dealer service professional.
The cost of a mechanical key is relatively inexpensive, however the programming chip used in modern cars can cost you more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key in your car and keep it safe.
There are five types of car keys, so it's important to know the type you have before receiving assistance in replacing it. A more traditional, older car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder and turned to turn on your car. These keys aren't as common, but you should be able find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.
The second type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip which sends a signal to the car's computers to open the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key, and can only be copied with special tools that only a locksmith or car dealer has access to. The cost of this service can be up to $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize microchips inside the key that communicates with your car. When replacement keys is close to your car, or placed in the ignition, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is a great feature because it deters theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar requires both the right key and the transmitter to turn on your car and drive away with it.
A transponder key is slightly more than a regular key but that's only because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by most locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your dealer about whether they are able to do it. They are the best option as they have the best expertise in programming these keys and will provide you with a better price.
Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it is essential to research all the key options prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able find out which kind of key works with it and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Certain newer cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complicated because they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, since they use rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key has been cloned, it will not work with your vehicle.
It is essential that you do not try to break into your car on your own, no matter the type of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies. Many mechanics won't help you if they notice signs that your car was opened or altered. This will make it extremely hard to get an exchange, so make certain to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's a lot harder to lose or steal than a traditional key made of metal. The keys don't have notches cut along the edge of the blade - instead there's a winding groove that cuts to a certain depth up the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from the top it's easy to identify whether it's a fake or not. They are easy to identify, so you won't get locked out if your key is lost while you're doing errands or working.
If your key is a laser-cut one, you'll need to contact locksmiths that have equipment for these kinds of replacements. In most cases the hardware store you visit will not be able to make you a new laser-cut key because they don't have the tools needed to cut and program these kinds of keys.
Locksmiths use an instrument that resembles an ordinary drill to cut the metal of the key. This will reduce all the surface to the desired length. The key's unique code will then be extracted from the VIN, and the key will then be cut to match the specifications of your vehicle.
Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys don't have any electronics or chips inside of them that can be replaced, so they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive since they require a complete rebuild of the key.
Keep at least one spare car key in your possession just in case. Then, you can call an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed, so you can be back in your vehicle without having to pay for it to be towed by the dealer.
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 allow you to unlock and start the vehicle without the need for a key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that need to be programmed to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to assist you in this process, though it's usually recommended to let your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are familiar with the specific vehicle you have, which can ensure it's done right.
Getting your car key fob replaced could cost as much as $500, depending on the kind of key you use and whether it's smart or just remote-controlled. That's not even including the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that your key fob goes missing or stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car keys was a pain, but now it's an actual issue. This is because modern vehicles have made keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now take keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that comes with a transponder and a mechanical key inside the same fob. The "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank which can fold into the fob in the same way as the switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or put into a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.
If you have a spare fob that can be used in your car and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key specialist that can program your automobiles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for much cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge and save yourself as much as $200 or more. Make sure you buy a key and fob that's the same model, year and make as your original to ensure it can be programmed to your vehicle.