How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It's never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.
It is a good idea to purchase a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. We have compiled a list on the cost to replace keys for cars.
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. However, auto key replacement are much more advanced in technology and it's more expensive to replace the key that was lost.
The cheapest method of doing this is to get an auto locksmith. They can usually copy a metal key for less than $50. This type of key doesn't have chip and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start an engine.
Modern car keys have transponders, or chips, that need to be programmed correctly. This can only by done by a professional who knows what they are doing, such as the local locksmith or car dealer service professional.
The cost of a mechanical key is relatively inexpensive, however the programming chip used in modern cars can cost more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key on hand and store it safely.
It's important to identify the type of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. An older, standard car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder, and turned to turn on your car. These keys aren't as common however you should be able find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.
The next type is a transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip that transmits a message to the car's computers to unlock the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a basic mechanical key, and it can only be copied with specific tools that only a locksmith or dealer can access. The cost for this can be as high as $500 or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.
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 vehicle, or placed in the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is a wonderful feature to have because it deters 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 before they could drive off with it.
Transponder keys cost slightly more than a regular key however, this is because it needs to be programmed. Locksmiths are generally competent to program a transponder key, but it is best to ask your car dealership if they can do so as well. This is because they typically have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys, and may be able to give you an affordable price.
Many automakers have their own unique anti-theft systems in place. This is why it is essential to research all the key options prior to buying your next car. You will be able to figure out which type of key is compatible with it and if it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.
Some of the latest cars are equipped with a password transponder system. These are more complicated as they require a specific key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, since they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key is duplicated, it won't work with your vehicle.
It is crucial to not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the kind of key. This could raise red flags with insurance companies and make mechanics reluctant to help, especially if they see signs that the car has been tampered with or opened. It can be extremely difficult to get a new key, so contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.
Laser-Cut Keys
You'll find a laser-cut key is much harder to take or lose than a traditional key. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edge of the blade - instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a certain depth across the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to differentiate between a genuine and fake key when you look at it from above. They are easy to spot, so you won't get locked out if your key is lost while working or running errands.
If you own a laser-cut key, then you will need to contact an expert locksmith who has the right equipment to make these types of replacements. In most cases your local hardware store won't be able make a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the machinery required to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.
A locksmith will use an apparatus that looks like an ordinary drill to mill the key's metal. This will remove all the surface to the desired length. The key's unique code can be extracted from the VIN, and the key will then be cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.
Laser-cut keys differ from normal transponder keys because they do not have electronics or chips which can be altered. They must be destroyed and replaced by a new one. Laser-cut keys are expensive because they require a complete rebuild of the key.
Keep at least one spare car key in your possession just in the event of. So, you'll be able to call the locksmith and cut and program the key for you, so that you can have access to your car without needing to pay to have it tow back at the dealership.
Fobs
You may not have an old-fashioned car but your vehicle probably uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys come with computer chips that need to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Certain locksmiths can perform this reprogramming, however it is generally better to have your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are well-versed in the specific vehicle you have and can ensure that it's done correctly.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob can be up to $500 based on whether it's smart key or remote-controlled key. auto key replacement 's not even including the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key you might wish to have in the event your fob gets lost or stolen.
Losing your car key used to be an inconvenience. Now, it's a huge issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern automobiles have made keys so convenient and powerful that thieves can steal them. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal the keys.
The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, but the one that has both transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. The "smart" key has an elongated shank that is spring loaded and can fold into the fob in the same way as a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or put into a coat pocket. These are typically pricier than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the help of a dealership to replace.
If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be duplicated to work with another vehicle, you might think about purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who can program various vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge, saving yourself around $200 or more. Be sure to purchase a fob and a key that's the same year, model and make as your original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.