How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It's never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO can help you get back on the road in a hurry by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
Before you lose your key It is a good idea to make a backup. To make this more convenient we've created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big problem. You could just buy a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. However, today's cars are much more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace the key that was lost.
The cheapest way to do this is to hire an auto locksmith. They are usually capable of copying a basic metal key and do so for about $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.
This is because modern car keys come with transponders or chips that have to be programmed in order to work correctly. This can only by done by a professional who knows what they are doing, for instance the local locksmith or car dealer professional who is a service expert.
The cost to have an electronic key copied is relatively cheap, but the programming of the chip in modern cars will typically 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.
There are five distinct types of car keys available, therefore it is important to identify the type you have before seeking help to replace it. A more traditional, older car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your vehicle. Keys like these aren't as popular, but you can find them at your local home improvement store for about $10.
The next type is a transponder car key. It has embedded security microchips that sends a message to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate than a standard mechanical key, and can only be copied with specific tools that only a locksmith or dealer in the car industry has access to. The cost for this could be up to $500 or more, based on the model and make of your car.
Transponder Keys
Cars with transponder keys use an embedded microchip in the key to communicate with your car. When the key is near to your car, or placed in the ignition, it transmits an electronic code which signals your car to start. This is a great feature as it wards off theft. However, it also makes stealing your car more difficult since a thief will require both the correct key and the transmitter to start your car and drive away with it.
A transponder key is a little bit more than a regular key however, this is because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with most locksmiths, but you should always ask your dealer if they can do it. This is because they typically have the most experience with these kinds of keys and could be able to provide you with the most competitive price.
A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it's important to research the key options prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able find out which type of key is compatible with it and whether it requires an unlocking device via a remote.
Certain newer cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. They are a little more complicated as they require a specific key tool to program them. However they are also more secure as they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they're used. This means that even if the key is cloned, it will not work with your vehicle.
It is important that you don't attempt to break into your car by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This can cause alarms to insurance companies and will cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help particularly if they notice evidence that the car has been tampered with or forced open. This can make it very hard to get a replacement, so be sure to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you own a car with a laser-cut key, you'll see that it's much harder to lose or get stolen than a traditional key made of metal. The keys don't have a notch along their edge. Instead, they have a groove cut to a particular depth on the face of the key. This makes it easy to differentiate between a genuine and fake key when you look at it from the top. 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 misplace your keys while at work or running around.
If your key is laser-cut, you'll need to contact an locksmith who has equipment for making these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases the hardware store you visit will not be able to create a new laser-cut key because they don't have the equipment needed to cut and program these types of key fobs.
A locksmith uses a machine that appears similar to a standard drill to mill the metal of the key, which will remove the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique key's code is then extracted from the VIN and the key is cut to the specifications of your vehicle.
Laser-cut keys are not like regular transponder key because they do not have electronics or chips that can be replaced. They must be destroyed and replaced with an entirely new model. Laser-cut keys are expensive since they require a full rebuild of the key.
Keep a spare car key in your possession just in case of. Then, you can call an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed, so you can get back into your vehicle without having pay for it to be tow by the dealer.
Fobs
You may not have an old classic car but your vehicle probably has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to unlock and start it without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that need to be programmed to work with the car you own. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming but it is usually better to have your dealer do it. They have the right tools and are familiar with your specific car, which can ensure it's done correctly.
Getting your car key fob changed can cost up to $500, based on the type of key you drive and if it's a smart or remote-controlled. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key you may need in the event your fob is lost or stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car keys was an inconvenience, but now it's a real problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern cars have made keys so convenient and powerful that thieves can steal keys. The advances in the technology of car keys have made it harder for thieves.
The new keys come in different sizes and shapes however the most expensive is one that comes with the transponder and mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart key" has an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob, like an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to be lost or hidden in pockets like a coat. car key replacement cost than standard remote-controlled fobs, 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 cloned to work in another vehicle, you might be interested in purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or a key and lock specialist who can program many different vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges and save yourself as much as $200 or more. Make sure you buy a fob and a key that's the same model, year and make as your original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.