How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road fast with Emergency Roadside Service.
Before you lose your key, it is a good idea to have a spare made. We have compiled a list on how much it costs to replace keys for cars.
Mechanical Keys
Not long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big deal. You could buy a spare key, and use it to turn the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it is much more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.
Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They can usually copy a metal key for less than $50. This kind of key doesn't have a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start engines.
This is due to the fact that modern car 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 is aware of what they're doing, for instance a local locksmith or even an expert from a dealership's service department.
The cost of having a mechanical key copied is relatively cheap however programming the chips in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key and store it safely.
There are five different types of car keys available, so it's important to know the type you have before getting help with replacing it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged metal lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to start your car. They're not as common however you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for about $10.
The second type of car key is the transponder key, which has an embedded security chip that transmits a signal to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and is only possible with specific tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith or car dealer. The cost for this can be as high as $500 or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize a microchip inside of the key that communicates with your car. When the key is put in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to start. This feature is beneficial because it stops theft. But, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult because a burglar will need both the correct key and the transmitter in order to turn on your car and then drive off with it.
The cost of purchasing a new transponder keys is typically slightly more expensive than a traditional key, but that is because it has to be programmed as well. Most locksmiths will be able to program the transponder key, however it is best to ask your car dealership if they can do so as well. They are the best choice since they have the most expertise in programming these keys, and they can give you a better rate.
Many automotive manufacturers have their own unique anti-theft strategies in place. car key replacement is essential to conduct your research prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to figure out which kind of key it is compatible with and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder password system. These are more complex as they require special tools to program them. However they are more secure because they employ rolling code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your keys were copied, it will not work in your car.
Whatever type of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital that you do not attempt to open the door of your vehicle yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies and cause many mechanics to refuse to help you out in the event of evidence that the vehicle has been altered or forced open. It will be very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so you should contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much harder to take or lose than a traditional key. These keys have no notches cut along the edge of the blade. Instead there's a groove that cuts to a certain depth across the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from the top, it is easy to identify if it's a fake or not. They are easy to recognize and you won't be locked out of your home if your key gets lost while you're doing errands or working.
If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you will need to contact a locksmith professional with the equipment to make these kinds of replacements. In most cases your local hardware store won't be able create an original laser-cut key since they don't have the equipment required to cut and program these kinds of keys.
A locksmith uses a machine that appears like a regular 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 can be retrieved from the VIN, and the key will be cut according to your vehicle's specifications.
Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not contain any electronics or chips inside of them that can be replaced, which means that they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive since they require a full rebuild of the key.
Have at least one spare car key in your car just in the event of. You can then call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can get back into your vehicle without having pay for it to be tow back to the dealer.
Fobs
You might not have an old classic car however, your car likely utilizes the latest high-tech fobs to open and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that have to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming for you but it's generally better to have your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are familiar with your specific car to ensure that the reprogramming is done correctly.
The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced could cost up to $500, based on the type of key you use and whether it's a smart or remote-controlled. That doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that your key fob goes missing or stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car key was an inconvenience however, it's now a real problem. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now take keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal the keys.
The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, however the one that has both a transponder as well as a mechanical key is the most expensive. The "smart" key comes with a spring-loaded shank which can fold into the fob in the same way as the switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or put 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 extra fob that works with your vehicle and can be copied to work with another vehicle, you might think about purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or a specialist in key and lock that offers programming for many different vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for much less than what a dealer charges, saving yourself as much as $200 or more. Be sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, model and model as your original so that it can be programmed to work with your car.