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 purchase a spare key before you lose yours. We have put together a guide on how much it costs to replace the car key.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge deal. You could purchase 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 way to do this is to hire an auto locksmith. They are usually able to duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. This kind of key does not have a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start an engine.
This is because modern automobile keys come with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed in order to work properly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who knows what they're doing, such as a local locksmith or even an auto dealership service professional.
The cost to get an electronic key copied is relatively low, but the programming of the chip in modern cars will usually cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that you have a backup key, and that you keep it somewhere safe.
It's important to identify the type of car key you have before seeking help. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your car. These keys aren't as common however, you should be able find them at your local hardware store for around $10.
The next type is a transponder car key. navigate here has an embedded security microchip that transmits a message to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and begin the engine. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be done with specialized tools that are accessible to a locksmith or car dealer. It can cost as high as $500 or more depending on the model and make.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize a microchip inside of the key to communicate with your car. When the key is placed close to your car, or inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code which signals your car to begin. This is a great feature to have since it deters theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car since a burglar would require both the key and the transmitter to turn it on before they could drive off with it.
Transponder keys cost slightly more than a regular key, but that's only because it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by many locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best choice since they have the most knowledge of programming these keys, and they can provide you with a better price.
Many automakers have their own distinct anti-theft systems in place. It is important to do your research before purchasing your next car. You should be able find out which kind of key it is compatible with and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Some of the latest cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complicated because they require a specific key tool 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 if your key was copied, it will not work in your car.
It is important that you do not try to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the type of key. This can cause alarms to insurance companies and will make mechanics reluctant to assist you, especially if they see indications that your car has been tampered with or opened. This can make it very hard to get replacement parts, so be sure to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
A key that has been laser-cut is much harder to lose or steal than a key made of metal. The keys don't have notches cut along the edges of the blade. Instead there's a winding groove which cuts to a specific depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to tell the difference between a genuine and fake key when looking at it from above. They are easy to recognize and will not get locked out if your key is lost while you're doing errands or working.
If you own keys that have been laser-cut, you will need to contact a professional locksmith with the equipment to make these types of replacements. In the majority of cases the hardware store you visit will not be able to make a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the tools required to cut and program these kinds of keys.
A locksmith will use a machine that looks very similar to a standard drill to cut the metal of the key, which will remove the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code will be found from the VIN and the key will then be cut to match the specifications of your vehicle.
Laser-cut keys are not like traditional transponder keys since they don't contain electronics or chips that can be replaced. They must be destroyed and replaced by a new one. This is why laser-cut keys are expensive, since they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.
Keep at least one spare car key in your possession in case of case. You can then contact a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed, so you can get back into your vehicle without having to pay for it to be towed by the dealer.
Fobs
You may not have an old classic car however, your car likely utilizes the latest high-tech fobs to unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that need to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming but it's recommended to have your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are well-versed in your specific car and can ensure that it's done right.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob can be as high as $500, depending on whether it's smart key or remote-controlled key. This does not include the cost of a mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that the fob goes missing or is stolen.
The loss of your car keys was once a hassle. Now it's a serious problem. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in car key technologies have made it harder for thieves.
The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, however the one that comes with transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart key" has an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob, like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or tucked inside pockets like 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 additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be duplicated to work in a different vehicle, you might think about purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist that offers programming for various vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge which could save you around $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a key and fob that's the identical model, year, and make as your original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.