How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It's never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road in a hurry by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
It is a good idea to buy a spare key before you lose yours. To make this easier, we have created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big issue. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. However, modern automobiles are much more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace keys that have been lost.
The cheapest method of doing this is to get an auto locksmith. They are usually capable of copying a basic metal key at a cost of $50 or less. However, this kind of key doesn't come with a chip and won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
Modern car keys have transponders, also known as chips, that need to be programmed in order to function properly. This is only done by a professional that knows what they are doing, for instance the local locksmith or car dealer professional who is a service expert.
The cost to get an electronic key copied is relatively cheap however programming the chips in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to ensure that you always have a backup key, and keep it in a safe place.
There are five distinct types of car keys available, so it's crucial to know which one you have prior to seeking help to replace it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged steel lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. Keys like these aren't as popular, but they are available at your local home improvement store for $10.
The second type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and begin the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate than a basic mechanical key, and can only be copied with specific tools that only a locksmith or a dealer in the car industry has access to. The cost of this service can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their car. They are equipped with an embedded microchip inside the key. When automotive car key replacement is close to your vehicle, or inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code which signals your car to start. This is a great feature to have since it discourages theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car because a burglar will need both the key and transmitter to turn it on and drive off with it.
The cost of a new transponder keys is typically slightly more expensive than a traditional key, but this is due to the fact that it needs to be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be able to program the transponder key, however it is recommended to inquire with your car dealer if they can do so also. They are the best option as they have the best knowledge of programming these keys and can give you a better rate.
Many automotive manufacturers have their own distinct anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it's essential to research all the key options before you purchase your next vehicle. You should be able find out which type of key works with it and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder system. These are more complicated because they require a specific key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, as they employ rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your key was cloned it would not work in your car.
Regardless of what type of key you have regardless of the type, it is essential that you never try to gain entry into your vehicle yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics will not assist you if they see indications that your car has been forced open or altered. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a replacement key, so you should contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a vehicle that has a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's more difficult to lose or steal than a traditional key made of metal. The keys don't have a notch along their edge. Instead, they have a groove cut to a specific depth in the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to tell the difference between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from above. The fact that they're so easy to spot also means that you can avoid being locked out if you happen to misplace your keys while working or running around.
If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to call an expert locksmith who has the right equipment to make these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases, your local hardware store won't be able create a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the machinery required to cut and program these types of keys.
A locksmith will employ a machine that appears like a standard drill to cut the key's metal, which will be able to cut the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code will be extracted from the VIN, and the key will be cut according to the specifications of your car.
Laser-cut keys differ from traditional transponder keys since they don't contain electronics or chips which can be altered. They have to be destroyed and replaced by a new one. This is why laser-cut keys can be expensive, since they require a total rebuild of the entire key.
It's always a good idea to keep at least one spare key on hand in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. Then, you can call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so that you can be back in your car without having to pay for it to be tow by the dealer.
Fobs
You may not have an old classic car however, your car likely utilizes the latest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys come with electronic chips that have to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able to assist you in this process but it's generally recommended to let your dealer handle it. They have the necessary tools and are familiar with your particular car to ensure that the reprogramming is done right.
The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced could cost as much as $500, depending on the type of key you use and if it's smart or just remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of an electronic backup key that you may want in case the fob goes missing or is stolen.
Losing your car key used to be an inconvenience. It's now a major issue. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now steal keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in car key technologies have made it more difficult for thieves.
The new keys are available in different dimensions and shapes, but the one with transponder and mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart" key comes with a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob like the switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or hidden in a pocket of a coat. These are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have a spare fob that is in your vehicle and can be cloned, consider trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business such as Amazon or a third-party key and lock specialist that can program your vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for much less than what a dealer charges, saving yourself around $200 or more. Be sure to purchase the fob and key that has the same model, year and make as the original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.