How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of your car keys is never a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the roads.
When you lose your key, it is recommended to have a spare. To make this more convenient we've put together a guide to how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big deal. You could buy an extra and put it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it's more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.
An auto locksmith can be the cheapest option. They are usually capable of copying a basic metal key for about $50 or less. However, key replacement car of key isn't equipped with an electronic chip, and therefore won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
This is because modern automobile keys are equipped with transponders or chips that need to be programmed to work properly. This can only be done by a professional that knows what they are doing, like a local locksmith or a car dealer professional in service.
The cost of a mechanical key is relatively low, but the programming chip used in a modern car will usually cost you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is by making sure you have a backup key and keep it in a safe place.
There are five types of car keys available, so it's important to know which one you have before getting help with replacing it. A more traditional, older car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and then 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 next type is the transponder car key. This key has embedded security microchips that sends a message to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and begin the engine. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be duplicated using specific tools that are accessible to a locksmith or dealer in the car. The cost for this can be as high as $500 or more, based on the make and model of your car.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by automobiles to connect with their car. They are equipped with an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is inserted into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it sends an encoded code that allows your car to begin. This feature is great because it deters theft. However, it also makes stealing your car more difficult since a thief will require both the correct key and transmitter in order to start your car and take it away.
The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is usually higher 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 ask your car dealership if they can do so as well. They are the best option because they have the most experience in programming these keys and can offer you a better price.
Many automotive manufacturers have their own distinct anti-theft strategies in place. It is essential to conduct your research before purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to figure out which kind of key it is compatible with and whether it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.
Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder. These are more complicated because they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, since they employ rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key has been cloned, it will not work with your vehicle.
Regardless of what type of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital that you never try to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will refuse to assist you if they see indications that your car has been forced open or tampered with. This could make it difficult to obtain a replacement, so be certain to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you own a car that has a laser cut key, you'll see that it's more difficult to lose or be stolen than a conventional metal key. These keys do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they have a groove cut to a particular depth on the key's face. When you look at the key from above it's easy to tell if it's a fake or not. The fact that they're easy to recognize also means that you're not at risk of being locked out if you lose your key while you're working or running for errands.
If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call an locksmith who has equipment to make these types of replacements. Your local hardware store will not be able to make you an alternative key that is laser-cut, as they lack the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.
A locksmith will employ an instrument that resembles a standard drill in order to cut the key's metal. This will remove the entire surface until it is the desired length. The key's unique code will then be retrieved from the VIN and the key will then be cut according to the specifications of your car.
Laser-cut keys are not like traditional transponder keys since they do not have electronic components or chips that can be replaced. They must be destroyed and replaced with a new one. Laser-cut keys are expensive because they require a full rebuild of the key.
Keep at least one spare car key in your possession in case of case. You can then call an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed, so you can reenter your vehicle without having to pay for it to be towed back to the dealer.
Fobs
If you do not own a classic car, chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to unlock and start your car without having a key. These keys come with electronic chips that have to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. There are locksmiths who can do this reprogramming for you but it's generally best to have your dealer handle it. They have the necessary tools and are knowledgeable about your specific car, which can ensure it's done correctly.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob can be as high as $500 depending on whether it is an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. That doesn't include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key you might want to have in case your fob is lost or stolen.
Losing your car key was once a source of frustration. Now, it's a huge problem. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so easy and reliable that thieves are now able to steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in technology for car keys have made it harder for thieves.
The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, however the one that has both a transponder as well as mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart" key comes with a spring-loaded shank which folds in the fob to form a switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or tucked into a coat pocket. These are typically pricier than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the help of a dealer to replace.
If you have a spare fob that works in your vehicle and could be copied, you might want to try to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or an independent locksmith and key specialist that offers programming for many automobiles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for much less than what a dealer charges and save yourself up to $200 or more. Just make sure the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, make and model as your previous so it can be coded to work with your vehicle.