How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It is never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.
It is a good idea to order a spare key before you lose yours. To make this more convenient we've put together a guide to how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, losing or losing the car key was not a big problem. You could buy an extra key and then use it in the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it's much more expensive to replace lost keys.
The cheapest method of doing this is to hire an auto locksmith. They usually can duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. However, this kind of key doesn't have a chip and will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.
Modern car keys include transponders or chips which must be programmed in order to function properly. This can only be accomplished 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 of mechanical keys is inexpensive, however the programming chip in a modern car will usually cost you more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key and keep it safe.
It's crucial to know the kind of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. A classic, old-fashioned car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your vehicle. They're not as common, but you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for around $10.
The next type of car key is a transponder key, which has an embedded security chip that transmits an electronic signal to the car's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a basic mechanical key, and it is only possible to copy it using specialized tools that only a locksmith or car dealer has access to. This can cost up to $500 or more, depending on the make and model.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys have an embedded microchip in the key that communicates with your car. When the key is close to your vehicle or inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that tells your car to start. This is a great feature to have since it helps to prevent theft. However, it makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar requires both the right key and transmitter in order to turn your car on and drive away with it.
The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is usually higher than a traditional key, but only because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with most locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your car dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best option because they have the most experience in programming these keys, and they can give you a better rate.
Many automotive manufacturers have their own unique anti-theft strategies in place. It is important to do your research prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which kind of key works with it and if it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.
Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder. These are a bit more complex as they require a specific key tool to program them. However they are also more secure because they employ rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they're used. This means that if your keys were copied, it will not work in your car.
Whatever type of key you have, it is crucial to never attempt to break into your own car yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will not assist you if they notice signs that your vehicle has been forced open or altered. cost of replacement car key will be very difficult to obtain a new key, so you should contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
You'll find a laser-cut key is much harder to steal or lose than a metal key. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edges of the blade. Instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a certain depth across the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to distinguish between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from the top. They are easy to spot and you won't be locked out if you have your key lost while you're doing errands or working.
If you own an uncut laser key, you'll need to talk to an expert locksmith with the equipment to make these types of replacements. Your local hardware store will not be able to provide you with an alternative key that is laser-cut, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.
A locksmith will use a machine that looks very like a regular drill to mill the metal of the key. This will cut off the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The unique key's code is then extracted from the VIN and the key is then cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.
Laser-cut keys are not like regular transponder key because they do not have electronics or chips that can be replaced. They must be destroyed and replaced by the new model. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive because they require a full reconstruction of the key.
It's always an excellent idea to have at least one spare key available in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. Then, you can call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so you can be back in 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 are your vehicle uses one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to unlock and start the vehicle without the need for a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming, but it is usually best to let your dealer handle it. They have the necessary tools and are well-versed in your specific car and can ensure that it's done correctly.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob can be as high as $500, depending on whether it is a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This does not include the cost of a mechanical backup key that you may want in case your fob is lost or stolen.
Losing your car key was once a source of frustration. It's now a major problem. That's because modern cars have made the keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal them.
The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, but the one that has both transponder and mechanical keys is the most expensive. The "smart" key comes with a spring-loaded shank that folds in the fob to form an e-switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or hidden in a coat pocket. These are typically pricier than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the help of a dealership to replace.
If you have an additional fob that works with your vehicle and can be copied to work in another vehicle, you may be interested in purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a business like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who can program a variety of vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for much cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge which could save you around $200 or more. Just make sure the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, make and model as your original to ensure it is programmed to work with your car.