How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing keys to your car is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road quickly by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
It is a good plan to purchase a spare key before you lose yours. We have compiled a guide on the price to replace a car key.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge issue. You could buy an extra and put it in the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace keys lost.
Employing an auto locksmith is the cheapest alternative. They are usually able to duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. This type of key does not have a chip, and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start engines.
Modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, that need to be programmed in order to function properly. This can only by done by a professional who knows what they are doing, such as a local locksmith or a car dealer service professional.
The cost of having a mechanical key copied is relatively cheap, but the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. The best way to prevent this is by making sure you have a backup key and that you keep it somewhere secure.
It is important to determine the type of car key you own before seeking assistance. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged metal lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. They're not as common however, you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for around $10.
The second type is the transponder car key. This key has an embedded security microchip that transmits a message to the car's computers to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be copied using special tools that only a locksmith or a dealer can access. It can cost as high as $500 or more depending on the car's model and make.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys have microchips inside the key to connect with your car. When the key is close to your car or inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code which signals your car to start. This is a great feature because it deters theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car, because a burglar will need both the key and transmitter to turn it off and drive off with it.
The cost of a brand new transponder key is typically slightly more expensive than a conventional key, but only because it has to be programmed as well. It is possible to program a transponder key by most locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your car dealer if they are able to do it. This is because they typically have the most experience with these kinds of keys, and may be able to offer you an affordable price.
A lot of automakers have their own distinct anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it is crucial to research the most important options prior to buying your next car. You should be able to find out which kind of key is compatible with it and if it requires an unlocking device via a remote.
Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder password system. These are more complicated as they require a special key tool to program them. However they are also more secure as they use rolling code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your key were copied, it will not work in your car.
It is crucial that you don't attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the type of key. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will refuse to assist you if they see indications that your car was opened or tampered with. It will be very difficult to obtain a new key, so you should contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll see that it's more difficult to lose or get stolen than a traditional key made of metal. The keys don't have a notch along the edge. Instead, they have a groove that's cut to a particular depth on the face of the key. When looking at the key from the top it's easy to tell whether it's a fake or not. The fact that they're easy to identify also means that you're not at risk of being locked out in the event that you lose your keys while at work or doing for errands.
If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call a locksmith that has specialized equipment for these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases the hardware store you visit will not be able to make you an original laser-cut key since they don't have the machinery needed to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.
Locksmiths use an instrument that resembles the drill used in standard homes to mill the metal of the key. This will remove the entire surface until it is the desired length. The key's unique code can be retrieved from the VIN and the key will be cut to meet the specifications of your vehicle.
Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not contain any electronic components or chips inside of them that can be replaced, which means they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive since they require a full reconstruction of the key.
Have at least one spare car key in your possession just in case. You can then call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed, so you can be back in your vehicle without having pay for it to be towed by the dealer.
Fobs
If you do not own a classic car, chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start the vehicle without the need for a key. The keys contain computer chips which need to be programmed in order to function with the vehicle you own. Fortunately, some locksmiths can assist you in this process but it's generally better to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the necessary tools.
car key replacements of replacing your car's key fob could be up to $500 based on whether it is an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. That's not even including the cost of 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 keys was an inconvenience, but now it's a major issue. That's because modern cars have made keys so convenient and capable that thieves are now able to steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in car key technologies have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in different shapes and sizes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that includes an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart key" comes with an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob like an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to be lost or get tucked away in a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and could require the assistance of a dealer to replace.
If you have a spare key fob that can be used in your vehicle and could be cloned, consider trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or an independent key and lock specialist that offers programming for many automobiles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob for an affordable price compared to what a dealership will charge, thereby which could save you $200 or more. Make sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as your original so that it can be programmed to work with your car.