How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing your car keys is not a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.
It is a good idea to purchase an extra key before you lose yours. To make this more convenient we've created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.
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. However, today's cars are much more advanced in technology and it's more costly to replace keys that have been lost.
Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable alternative. They usually can duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. However, this kind of key doesn't come with chips and won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
Modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, that need to be programmed to work correctly. This is only done by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, such as an auto locksmith in your area or an expert from a dealership's service department.
The cost of mechanical keys is affordable, however the programming chip in modern cars can cost you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to make sure you have a backup key and that you keep it in a safe place.
There are five different types of car keys available, so it's crucial to know which one you have prior to receiving assistance in replacing it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged metal lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. Keys like these aren't as popular however you can find them at your local home improvement store for $10.
The next type is the transponder car key. It has an embedded security microchip that transmits a message to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be duplicated using special tools, which are only available to a locksmith or dealer of cars. This can cost up to $500 or more based on the model and make.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their car. They incorporate a microchip in the key. When the key is close to your vehicle or placed in the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is a great feature to have since it deters theft. However, automotive key replacement makes stealing your car much more difficult since a thief requires both the right key and transmitter to turn on your car and then drive off with it.
The cost of a brand new transponder key is typically a little more expensive than a conventional key, but only because it must be programmed as well. It is possible to program a key transponder with the majority of locksmiths, however it is best to inquire with your dealer if they are able to do it. This is because they usually have the most experience with these types of keys, and may be able to provide you with the most competitive price.
A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. It is crucial to conduct your research prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which type of key is compatible with it and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Some newer vehicles come with transponder password systems. They are a little more complicated as they require a particular key tool to program them. However they are also more secure as they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they're used. This means that if your key was duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.
Regardless of what type of key you have, it is crucial to never attempt to break into your own vehicle yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies and make mechanics reluctant to help, especially if they see evidence that the vehicle has been damaged or opened. This can make it very hard to get a replacement, so be certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much harder to lose or steal than a traditional 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 set depth up the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to differentiate between authentic and fake keys when looking at it from above. They are easy to spot and will not get locked out of your home if your key gets lost while you're doing errands or working.
If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call locksmiths that have equipment to make these types of replacements. car key replacement visit isn't likely to create an alternative key that is laser-cut, as they lack the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.
A locksmith will employ a machine that appears like a standard drill to mill the key's metal, which will cut off the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code can be extracted from the VIN and the key will then be cut to meet the specifications of your vehicle.
Laser-cut keys are different from a traditional transponder keys since they do not have electronics or chips that can be changed. They have to be destroyed and replaced with a new one. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive since they require a full reconstruction of the key.
Keep at least one spare car key in your possession in case of the event of. You can then contact 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 car is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that permit you to unlock and start the car without having a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips which need to be programmed to function with the vehicle you own. Fortunately, some locksmiths can assist you in this process, though it's usually best to have your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the tools needed.
The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced can cost up to $500, based on the type of key you use and whether it's smart or just remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that your key fob goes missing or stolen.
It used to be that losing your car key was a pain however, it's now a real problem. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in technology for car keys have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the one with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank which folds into the fob like an e-switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or hidden in a coat pocket. These keys are usually more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have a spare key fob that is in your car and can be duplicated, think about trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a firm such as Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key company which offers programming for a variety of automobiles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for much less than what a dealer charges, saving yourself around $200 or more. Be sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, make and model as your previous so it can be coded to work with your vehicle.