How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing your car keys is not a pleasant experience. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road in a hurry by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
If you lose your keys It is a good idea to have a spare. To make this easier we've created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge issue. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. However, modern automobiles are much more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace a lost key.
The most affordable method to accomplish this is to hire an auto locksmith. They usually can duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. However, this kind of key doesn't come with chips and won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
This is due to the fact that modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that have to be programmed in order to work correctly. This is only done by a professional who knows what they're doing, for instance the local locksmith or a car dealership service professional.
The cost to get an electronic key copied is relatively cheap however programming the chip in modern cars will typically run you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is by making sure you have a backup key, and keep it in a safe place.
It's important to identify the kind of car key you have before seeking help. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged metal lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. These keys aren't as common, but you should be able 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 car's computers to open the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be done with specific tools, which are only available to a locksmith or dealer of cars. The cost for this could be up to $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys have microchips inside the key that communicates with your car. When the key is near to your car, or placed in the ignition, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is a great feature to have since it discourages theft. However, it also makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar requires both the right key and transmitter 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 conventional key, but this is due to the fact that it needs to be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be able to program the transponder key, however it is recommended to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to program it as well. They are the best choice because they have the most expertise in programming these keys and will offer you a better price.
A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it's essential to research all the key options before you purchase your next car. You should be able to find out which kind of key works with it and whether it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.
Some newer cars come equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are a bit more complicated as they require a specific key tool to program them. However, they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your keys were duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.
automotive key replacement is important that you don't attempt to break into your car by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This can be a red flag to insurance companies and cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to assist you in the event of indications that your vehicle has been damaged or opened. This can make it very difficult to obtain a replacement, so be sure to speak with an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
You'll find a laser-cut key is much more difficult to lose or steal than a metal key. The keys don't have a notch along the edge. Instead, they have a groove that is cut to a specific depth on the face of the key. When looking at the key from above, it is easy to tell whether it's a fake or not. The fact that they're easy to recognize also means that you can avoid being locked out in the event that you happen to misplace your key while you're working or running errands.
If you have a laser-cut key, then you'll need to call a locksmith professional with the equipment to create these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit is unlikely to be able provide you with a laser-cut replacement key, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this kind of key fob.
A locksmith uses an instrument that appears similar to a standard drill to cut the metal of the key. This will cut off the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then extracted from the VIN and the key is then cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.
In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys don't have any chips or electronics inside that can be replaced, so they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive since they require a complete rebuild of the key.
It's always recommended to keep at least one spare key on hand in the event that you accidentally lose your car keys. You can then call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that you can be back in your vehicle without having pay for it to be towed by the dealer.
Fobs
If you don't own a classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that allow you to unlock and start the car without having a key. These keys contain special computer chips that must be programmed to function with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming, however it is usually best to let your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are knowledgeable about the specific vehicle you have to ensure that the reprogramming is done correctly.
The cost of replacing your car key fob could be as high as $500, depending on whether it's a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key you may want in case your fob gets lost or stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car keys was a pain however, it's now a real problem. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in the technology of car keys have made it harder for thieves.
The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, however the one with transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart key" features an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob, similar to the switchblade, making it less likely to get lost or tucked inside a coat pocket. These keys are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealer.
If you have a spare fob that can be used in your vehicle and could be copied, you might want to try to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business such as Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key company that offers programming for many vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob for a much lower cost than the price a dealership will charge, which could save you $200 or more. Make sure you buy a fob and a key that has the identical model, year, and model as your original to ensure it can be programmed for your vehicle.