How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It's never a good feeling to lose your car keys. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road in a hurry by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
It is a good idea to order a spare key before you lose yours. We have put together a guide on the cost to replace the car key.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge issue. You could buy a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. However, modern cars are more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace a lost key.
The cheapest way to do this is to get an auto locksmith. They will usually be capable of copying a standard metal key for about $50 or less. This type of key doesn't have a chip, and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start engines.
This is because modern car keys come with transponders or chips that have to be programmed to function properly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they're doing, such as an auto locksmith in your area or an auto dealership service professional.
The cost to have an electronic key copied is fairly low however programming the chip in modern cars will usually cost more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key in your car and keep it in a safe place.
There are five distinct kinds of car keys, therefore it is important to identify which one you have before seeking help to replace it. A more traditional, older car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your vehicle. They're not as common however, you should be able find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.
The second type is the transponder car key. This key has an embedded security microchip that sends a message to the computer in the vehicle to open the doors and begin the engine. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key and can only be duplicated using special tools that are only accessible to a locksmith or dealer of cars. It can cost as high as $500 or more depending on your car's make and model.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize an embedded microchip in the key that communicates with your car. When the key is placed close to your car or placed in the ignition, it transmits an electronic code which signals your car to begin. This is a wonderful feature to have as it discourages theft. But, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar requires both the right key and transmitter in order to turn your car on and take it away.
The cost of a new transponder key is usually a little more expensive than a traditional key, but only because it must be programmed as well. The majority of locksmiths will be competent to program the transponder key, however it is recommended to ask your dealership whether they are able to do this as well. They are the best option because they have the most expertise in programming these keys and can give you a better rate.
Many automakers have their own anti-theft strategies in place. It is crucial to conduct your research before purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able find out which 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. They are a little more complicated because they require a particular key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, since they use rolling-code encryption to change 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 that you don't attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This could raise red flags with insurance companies and could make mechanics reluctant to help, especially if they see evidence that the vehicle has been altered or opened. This could make it difficult to obtain replacement parts, so be certain to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a car that has a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's a lot harder to lose or get stolen than a traditional metal key. These keys have no notches cut along the edge of the blade. Instead, there's a winding groove which cuts to a specific depth up the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from the top it's easy to tell if it's a fake or not. The fact that they're easy to recognize also means that you're less likely to risk getting locked out if you misplace your key while you're at work or running around.
If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact locksmiths that have equipment to make these types of replacements. Most of the time your local hardware store will not be able to make a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the tools needed to cut and program these kinds of keys.
A locksmith will employ a machine that looks very like a regular drill to cut the metal of the key, which will cut off the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The key's unique code can be found from the VIN and the key will be cut to match your vehicle's specifications.
Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not have any electronics or chips inside of them that can be replaced, which means that they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive because they require a full reconstruction of the key.
It's always an excellent idea to have at least one spare key in your possession in case you happen to lose your car key. This way, you'll be able to contact the locksmith to cut and program the key for you, so that you gain access to your vehicle without having to pay to have it tow-back at the dealership.
Fobs
There's a chance that you don't own an old classic vehicle but your vehicle probably has one of the most modern high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys come with electronic chips that have to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming, but it's best to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the necessary tools.
The cost of having your car's key fob replaced can cost as high as $500, based on the type of key you use and whether it's smart or just remote-controlled. This does not include the cost of an electronic backup key that you might need in the event that your fob gets lost or stolen.
Losing your car key was once a source of frustration. Now, it's a huge issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern cars have made keys so convenient and powerful that thieves are able to take them. The advancements in car key technologies have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys come in various shapes and sizes, but the most expensive is one that includes a transponder and a mechanical key inside the same fob. The "smart" key comes with a spring-loaded shank that folds in the fob to form a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or tucked in a pocket of a coat. These are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealer.
If auto car key replacement have a spare key fob that is in your vehicle and could be cloned, consider trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a firm like Amazon or an independent locksmith and key company which offers programming for a variety of automobiles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for less than what a dealer charges which could save you as much as $200 or more. Be sure to purchase a key and fob that's the identical model, year, and make as your original to ensure it can be programmed for your vehicle.