How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing keys to your car is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads.
It is a good plan to buy an extra key before you lose yours. To make it easier we've created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big issue. You could buy a spare key, and use it to turn on the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it is much more expensive to replace lost keys.
Hiring an auto locksmith is the cheapest alternative. They will usually be capable of copying a standard metal key at a cost of $50 or less. This kind of key does not have chip and will not be able unlock doors or start an engine.
Modern car keys have transponders, or chips, that need to be programmed properly. This can only by done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, such as an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.
The cost to have a mechanical key copied is fairly low however, the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key on hand and keep it safe.
It is important to determine the kind of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. A classic, old-fashioned car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder and turned to turn on your car. They're not as common however, you should be able find them at your local hardware store for about $10.
The second type of car key is the transponder key with an embedded security chip that transmits an electronic signal to the car's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a basic mechanical key, and it can only be copied with specialized tools that only a locksmith or car dealer has access to. The cost for this could be up to $500 or more, based on the model and make of your car.
Transponder Keys
Cars with transponder keys use microchips inside the key that communicates with your car. When the key is close to your car, or when it is inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is an excellent feature to have as it helps to prevent theft. However, it also makes stealing your car more difficult as a burglar will need both the correct key and transmitter to turn on your car and take it away.
The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is typically a little more expensive than a conventional key, but only because it needs to be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be competent to program a transponder key, but it is best to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to program it as well. They are the best option as they have the best knowledge of programming these keys and can offer you a better price.
Many automotive manufacturers have their own unique anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it is crucial to research the most important options before you purchase your next vehicle. You should be able find out which type of key works with it and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
see this page of the latest cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complex as they require a particular key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, as they utilize rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your keys were cloned it would not work in your car.
It is important that you don't attempt to break into your car on your own, no matter the type of key. This could be a red flag to insurance companies and will cause many mechanics to refuse to help in the event of signs that the vehicle has been altered or forced to open. This will make it extremely hard to get an exchange, so make certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
A key that has been laser-cut is much more difficult to lose or steal than a traditional key. The keys don't have a notch along the edge. Instead, they have a groove that is cut to a certain depth along the key's face. When you look at the key from above, it is easy to determine if it's a fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to recognize also means that you can avoid getting locked out if you lose your keys while at work or doing for errands.
If your key is a laser-cut one, you'll need to contact an locksmith who has equipment for making these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store isn't likely to provide you with the replacement key laser-cut since they do not have the tools to cut and program this type of key fob.
Locksmiths use an apparatus that resembles the drill used in standard homes to mill the metal of the key. This will remove all the surface to the desired length. The unique key's code is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut to your vehicle's specifications.
Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not contain any chips or electronics inside them that could be replaced, which means they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. This is the reason why laser-cut keys can be expensive, as they require a total rebuild of the entire key.
It's always an excellent idea to have at least one spare key in your possession in the event that you accidentally lose your car keys. Then, you can call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can reenter your vehicle without having to pay for it to be tow by the dealer.
Fobs
There's a chance that you don't own an old classic vehicle but your vehicle probably utilizes the latest high-tech fobs to open and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys have special computer chips that need to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Some locksmiths are able to assist you in this process however it's better to have your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the necessary tools.
The cost of replacing your car key fob can be as high as $500 depending on whether it's a smart key or a remote-controlled key. That's not even including the cost of a new mechanical backup key that you may want to have in case your fob is 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 that convenient and powerful that thieves can take them. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal them.
The new keys are available in a variety of shapes and sizes however the most expensive is one that has an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart key" features an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob, like an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to be lost or tucked inside a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the assistance of a dealership to replace.
If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and can be duplicated to work with another vehicle, you may be interested in purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at less than what a dealership will charge, thereby costing as little as $200 or more. Be sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, model and model as your original to ensure it is programmed to work with your car.