How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing your car keys is not a pleasant experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road in a hurry with Emergency Roadside Service.
auto key replacement is a good plan to buy an extra key before you lose yours. To make this easier, we have created a list of the cost of replacement car keys. cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge deal. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. However, modern cars are more technologically advanced and it is more expensive to replace the key that was lost.
The cheapest method of doing this is to employ an auto locksmith. They'll usually be capable of copying a basic metal key and do so at a cost of $50 or less. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with chips and will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.
automotive key replacement include transponders, also known as chips, which must be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they're doing, like an auto locksmith in your area or an expert from a dealership's service department.
The cost of having an electronic key copied is relatively low however, the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key and keep it in a safe place.
There are five different kinds of car keys, therefore it is important to identify which one you have before getting help with replacing it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. These keys aren't as common however, you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.
The second type is the transponder car key. It has an embedded security microchip that transmits a message to the computer in the vehicle to open the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be done with special tools that are only accessible to a locksmith or car dealer. This can cost up to $500 or more based on your car's make and model.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize microchips inside the key to connect with your car. When the key is close to your car or placed in the ignition, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is an excellent feature to have since it helps to prevent 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 and take off with it.
A transponder key costs just a bit more than a regular key, however, it's because it has to be programmed. 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. They are the best option as they have the best expertise in programming these keys and will give you a better rate.
A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it's crucial to research the most important options prior to buying your next vehicle. You will be able to figure out which kind of key works 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 special key tool to program them. However, they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they're used. This means that if your key was duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.
It is essential that you don't attempt to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the kind of key. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will refuse to assist you if they observe indications that your car has been forced open or damaged. It can be extremely difficult to get a new key, so you should contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a car that has a laser cut key, you'll find that it's much harder to lose or be stolen than a conventional metal key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edge of the blade - instead there's a groove that cuts to a set depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to distinguish between authentic and fake keys when you look at it from the top. The fact that they're easy to recognize also means that you're not at risk of being locked out in the event that you misplace your keys while at work or running for errands.
If your key is a laser-cut one then you'll have to contact an locksmith who has equipment for these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases, your local hardware store won't be able make you a new laser-cut key because they don't have the machinery required to cut and program these types of keys.
A locksmith will employ an apparatus that resembles an ordinary drill to cut the metal of the key. This will cut the entire surface to the desired length. The unique key's code is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is cut to your vehicle's specifications.
Laser-cut keys are not like normal transponder keys because they do not have electronic components or chips that can be changed. They must be destroyed and replaced by a new one. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive because they require a full reconstruction of the key.
Keep at least one spare car key in your possession just in case. You can then contact an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can be back in your car without having to pay for it to be tow to the dealer.
Fobs
You might not have an old classic car but your vehicle probably has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys have special electronic chips that have to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming, but it is usually recommended to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and have all the tools needed.
The cost of having your car's key fob replaced could cost as much as $500, depending on the type of key you drive and whether it's smart or just remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car key was a pain, but now it's a real problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern automobiles have made keys that convenient and powerful that thieves can take keys. The advances in technology for car keys have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.
These new keys come in a variety of shapes and sizes however the most expensive is one that comes with a transponder and a mechanical key within the same fob. The "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank which can fold into the fob in the same way as an e-switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or tucked in a coat pocket. These are usually more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have an additional fob that works with your vehicle and can be copied to work in a different vehicle, you might be interested in purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who offers programming for many different vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges which could save you as much as $200 or more. Be sure to purchase a key and fob that has the same model, year and make as the original to ensure it can be programmed to your vehicle.