How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the road.
It is a good plan to buy a spare key before you lose yours. To make this more convenient we've created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge issue. You could simply buy a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more advanced in technology, and it's much more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.
Hiring an auto locksmith is the cheapest option. They'll usually be able to copy a basic metal key for about $50 or less. This type of key does not have a chip, and will not be able unlock doors or start engines.
Modern car keys include transponders, or chips, that need to be programmed correctly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they are doing, for instance the local locksmith or car dealer professional in service.
The cost of having an electronic key copied is relatively low however programming the chip used in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to make sure you have a backup key, and keep it in a safe place.
It's crucial to know the kind of car key you own before seeking assistance. A standard, older car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. These keys aren't as common, but you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for around $10.
The second type of car key is the transponder with an embedded security chip that sends an alert to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and enable the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a basic mechanical key, and it is only possible to copy it using specific tools that only a locksmith or a dealer in the car industry has access to. This can cost up to $500 or more, depending on the make and model.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys have a microchip inside of the key to connect with your car. When the key is close to your vehicle, or when it is inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is an excellent feature to have as it helps to prevent theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car because a burglar will need both the key and transmitter to turn it on before they could drive off with it.
Transponder keys cost just a bit more than a regular key however, this is because it needs to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be competent to program keys that have transponders, but it is always best to inquire with your car dealer if they can do so as well. This is because they often 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. It is essential to conduct your research before purchasing your next car. You should be able find out which kind of key works with it, and whether or not it requires an unlocking device via a remote.
Some newer vehicles come with a transponder password system. They are a little more complicated as they require a special key tool to program them. However they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key is copied, it will not work with your vehicle.
It is crucial that you don't attempt to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the type of key. This can raise alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they see signs that your car was opened or tampered with. This could make it hard to get replacement parts, so be sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
You'll find a laser-cut key is much more difficult to lose or steal 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 which cuts to a specific depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from the top it's easy to tell whether it's fake or not. They are easy to spot and will not get locked out if your key is lost while you're working or running errands.
If your key is laser-cut, you'll need to contact an locksmith who has equipment to make these types of replacements. In most cases, your local hardware store isn't able to make an original laser-cut key since they don't have the equipment required to cut and program these types of key fobs.
A locksmith uses a machine that appears similar to a standard drill to cut the metal of the key. This will be able to cut the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code can be found from the VIN, and the key will then be cut to match the specifications of your vehicle.
Laser-cut keys are different from a normal transponder keys because they do not have electronic components or chips that can be replaced. They have to 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 car just in case of. This way you'll be able contact the locksmith to cut and program the key for you so that you 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 car probably has one of the most modern high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without a traditional key. These keys have special computer chips that need to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Fortunately, some locksmiths can perform this reprogramming on your behalf however it's better to have your dealer handle it. They have the necessary tools and are well-versed in the specific vehicle you have and can ensure that it's done right.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob could be as high as $500, depending on whether it is a smart key or a remote-controlled key. 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 a pain however, it's now a real problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern automobiles have made keys so convenient and powerful that thieves are able to steal them. The advances in technology for car keys have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys come in various dimensions and shapes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that has an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key inside the same fob. This "smart key" features an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob, like the switchblade, making it less likely to get lost or get tucked away in a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have an additional fob that works with your vehicle and that can be cloned to work in another vehicle, you might want to consider ordering an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist that offers programming for many different vehicles. car key replacement fob might be able to cut and program your own fob for cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge which could save you around $200 or more. Be sure to purchase the fob and key that is the identical model, year, and model as your original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.