How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of your car keys is never a pleasant experience. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road fast by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
It is a good idea to buy a spare key before you lose yours. To make this more convenient we've put together a guide to how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big problem. You could purchase an extra and put it in the ignition. However, today's cars are much more technologically advanced and it is more expensive to replace a lost key.
Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They are usually able to duplicate a metal key for less than $50. However, this type of key isn't equipped with chips and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
Modern car keys come with transponders or chips which must be programmed to work properly. This can only be done by a professional who understands what they're doing, like an auto locksmith in your area or a car dealership service professional.
The cost of having a mechanical key copied is relatively cheap however, the programming of the chip in modern cars will typically cost more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key in your car and keep it safe.
It is important to determine the type of car keys you own before seeking assistance. A more traditional, older car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your car. These aren't common anymore however, 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 unlock the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a basic mechanical key, and can only be copied with specific tools that only a locksmith or a car dealer has access to. The cost for this could be as high as $500 or more, based on the model and make of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by cars to connect with their car. They are equipped with microchips in the keys. When the key is placed close 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 as it discourages 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 off and drive off with it.
A transponder key costs a little bit more than a regular key however, it's because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by most locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your car dealer if they can do it. They are the best choice because they have the most expertise in programming these keys and can give you a better rate.
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 will be able to figure out what type of key will work with it, and whether or not it requires a remote to unlock it.
Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder system. These are more complex as they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, since they utilize rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that even if the key is cloned, it will not work with your car.
Regardless of what type of key you have regardless of the type, it is essential that you do not attempt to break into your own car yourself. This could raise red flags with insurance companies and cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help, especially if they see evidence that the car has been tampered with or forced open. This can make it very hard to get replacement parts, so be sure to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much more difficult to take or lose than a traditional key. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edges of the blade. Instead there's a winding groove that cuts to a set depth across the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to differentiate between genuine and fake keys when you look at it from the top. The fact that they're so easy to identify also means that you can avoid being locked out in the event that you happen to misplace your key while you're working or doing around.
If your key is a laser-cut one, you'll need to contact an locksmith who has equipment for these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store will not be able to provide you with an alternative key that is laser-cut, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this type of key fob.
A locksmith will use an apparatus that looks like an ordinary drill to mill the key's metal. This will remove the entire surface until it is the desired length. The key's unique code can be found from the VIN and the key will be cut to match the specifications of your vehicle.
Laser-cut keys differ from normal transponder keys because they do not contain any electronic chips or electronics that can be changed. They have to be destroyed and replaced by a new one. This is why laser-cut keys can be expensive, as they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.
Have at least one spare car key in your possession just in case. You can then contact a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that you can reenter your vehicle without having to pay for it to be towed to the dealer.
auto key replacements might not own an old classic vehicle, but your car probably uses one of the newest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys come with electronic chips that have to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming for you but it's generally better to have your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and have all the tools needed.
The cost of replacing your car key fob could be up to $500 based on whether it is an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. That's not even including the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key you might need in the event that your fob gets lost or stolen.
The loss of your car key was once a hassle. It's now a major issue. That's because modern cars have made keys so convenient and capable that thieves are now able to steal keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal the keys.
The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the one that has both transponder and a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart key" features a spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob, like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or tucked inside a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and could require the assistance of a dealer to replace.
If you have a spare key fob that works in your vehicle and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or an independent key and lock specialist that can program your vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob for an affordable price compared to the price a dealership will charge, saving up to $200 or more. Be sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, model and model as your original so it can be coded to work with your car.