How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It's never a good feeling to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the road.
It is a good plan to order a spare key before you lose yours. To make this more convenient, we have created a guide on the cost of replacement car keys. cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't long ago that misplacing a key or losing it 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 is more expensive to replace the key that was lost.
The cheapest method of doing this is to hire an auto locksmith. They'll usually be able to copy a basic metal key for around $50 or less. However, this type of key doesn't come with an electronic chip, and therefore won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
Modern car keys come with transponders, also known as chips, that must be programmed to work correctly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they're doing, for instance a local locksmith or even an auto dealership service professional.
The cost to have a mechanical key copied is relatively low, but the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to make sure you have a backup key, and that you keep it somewhere safe.
There are five different types of car keys available, therefore it is important to identify which one you have before seeking help to replace it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. They're not as common however you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for around $10.
The second type of car key is a transponder key that has an embedded security chip that transmits a signal to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and enable the engine to start. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be duplicated using specialized tools that are only available to a locksmith or dealer of cars. The cost of this service can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your car.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by automobiles to connect with their car. They use microchips in the keys. When the key is close to your car or when it is inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code which signals your car to start. This feature is great as it wards off theft. It also makes it more 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.
The cost of a brand new transponder key is usually a little more expensive than a conventional key, but that is because it has to be programmed as well. Most locksmiths will be able to program keys that have transponders, but it is always best to inquire with your car dealer if they can do so as well. They are the best option as they have the best experience in programming these keys, and they can offer you a better price.
Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. It is essential to conduct your research before purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which kind of key is compatible with it, and whether or not it requires a remote to unlock it.
Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder-based password system. They are a little more complicated because they require a specific key tool to program them. However they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that even if the key is duplicated, it won't work with your vehicle.
Regardless of what type of key you've got regardless of the type, it is essential that you do not attempt to open the door of your car yourself. This could be a red flag to insurance companies and will cause many mechanics to refuse to help you out, especially if they see signs that the vehicle has been damaged or forced to open. This can make it very hard to get replacement parts, so be sure to speak with an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much more difficult to take or lose than a traditional key. These keys do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a specific depth on the key's face. When looking at the key from above, it is easy to tell whether it's a fake or not. They are easy to spot, so you won't get locked out if your key is lost while you're working or running errands.
If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you will need to contact a locksmith professional who has the right equipment to create these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit is unlikely to be able make you the replacement key laser-cut because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.
car key replacement will use an instrument that resembles an ordinary drill to cut the key's metal. This will cut the entire surface to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut to the specifications of your vehicle.
Laser-cut keys are not like regular transponder key because they do not contain any electronics or chips that can be changed. They must be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are expensive, as they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.
It's always an excellent idea to have at least one spare key on hand in case you do accidentally lose your car key. You can then 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, chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to unlock and start your car without a key. These keys contain special computer chips that must be programmed in order to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to assist you in this process but it's generally better to have your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the necessary tools.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob can be as high as $500 depending on whether it's an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. This does not include the cost of an electronic backup key that you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.
The loss of your car key was once a hassle. It's now a major problem. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now steal keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.
These new keys come in various dimensions and shapes, but the most expensive is one that includes a transponder and a mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart key" comes with a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob, similar to the switchblade, making it less likely to be lost or tucked inside the pocket of a coat. They're generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the help of a dealership to replace.
If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and that can be duplicated to work in another vehicle, you might want to consider ordering a replacement aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who can program a variety of vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at less than the price a dealership will charge, thereby costing as little as $200 or more. Be sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, model and model as your previous so it can be coded to work with your car.