How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing your car keys is never a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.
It is a good idea to order an extra key before you lose yours. We have compiled a list on the cost to replace a car key.
Mechanical Keys
Not long ago, misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big issue. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it's much more expensive to replace lost keys.
An auto locksmith can be the cheapest alternative. They will usually be capable of copying a basic metal key and do so for around $50 or less. This type of key doesn't have chip and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start engines.
This is because modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that have to be programmed in order to function 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 to have an electronic key copied is relatively low however programming the chips in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key in your car and store it safely.
There are five distinct types of car keys, so it's important to know the type you have before receiving assistance in replacing it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. They're not as common however, you should be able find them at your local hardware store for around $10.
The next type is the transponder car key. It has embedded security microchips that sends a message to the computer in the vehicle to unlock the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a standard mechanical key, and it can only be copied with special tools that only a locksmith or dealer can access. This can cost up to $500 or more, depending on the make and model.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys have microchips inside the key that communicates with your car. When the key is placed in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it transmits an encoded code that allows your car to start. This is a wonderful feature to have as it helps to prevent theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car, as a thief would need both the key and transmitter to turn it on before they could drive off with it.
A transponder key costs just a bit more than a regular key, but that's only because it needs to be programmed. Locksmiths are generally competent to program a transponder key, but it is always best to ask your dealership whether they are able to do this as well. This is because they typically have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys, and may be able to offer you an affordable price.
Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft systems. It is essential to conduct your research prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able find out which type of key works with it and if it requires a remote to unlock it.
Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder. These are more complex as they require special tools to program them. However, they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they're used. This means that even if the key is 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 do not attempt to break into your own vehicle yourself. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics will not assist you if they observe signs that your car has been forced open or tampered with. This can make it very hard to get replacement parts, so be sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
A key that has been laser-cut is much more difficult to take or lose than a metal key. The keys don't have a notch along the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that's cut to a particular depth on the face of the key. This makes it very easy to distinguish between a genuine and fake key when looking at it from the top. The fact that they're easy to identify 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 laser-cut then you'll have to contact locksmiths that have equipment to make these types of replacements. Most of the time, your local hardware store isn't able to make a new laser-cut key because they don't have the equipment required to cut and program these types of keys.
A locksmith will use a machine that appears like a standard drill to cut the metal of the key. This will cut off the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then extracted from the VIN and the key is then cut to your vehicle's specifications.
In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys don't have any electronic components or chips inside them that could be replaced, which means they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. This is the reason why laser-cut keys can be expensive, as they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.
Keep a spare car key in your car just in the event of. So you'll be able contact the locksmith to cut and program the key for you, so that you gain access to your vehicle again without needing to pay to have it tow back to the dealership.
Fobs
If you do not own a classic car, the chances are your vehicle uses one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that allow you to unlock and start the car without having a key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that need to be programmed in order to work with the car you own. There are locksmiths who can do this reprogramming for you, though it's usually best to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the necessary tools.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob could be as high as $500, depending on whether it's a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of an electronic backup key that you may want in case your fob is lost or stolen.
It used to be that losing your car key was a pain However, now it's an actual issue. replacement auto key fob 's because modern cars have made keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now take keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in technology for car keys have made it more difficult for thieves.
The new keys are available in different dimensions and shapes, but the one that comes with a transponder as well as mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart" key comes with a spring-loaded shank which can fold into the fob in the same way as an e-switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or put in a coat pocket. These keys are usually more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be duplicated to work in another vehicle, you may be interested in purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a business like Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who offers programming for various vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob at less than what a dealership will charge, thereby which could save you $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a key and fob that's the same year, model and model as your original to ensure it can be programmed for your vehicle.