How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the roads.
Before you lose your key, it is an ideal idea to have a spare. We have put together a guide on how much it costs to replace keys for cars.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, losing or losing keys to your car was not a big problem. You could purchase a spare and simply use it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it's more costly to replace lost keys.
The most affordable method to accomplish this is to hire an auto locksmith. They will usually be able to copy a basic metal key and do so for about $50 or less. However, this type of key doesn't have an electronic chip, and therefore will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.
This is because modern automobile keys are equipped with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed to work properly. This can only be done by a professional that knows what they are doing, such as the local locksmith or car dealer service professional.
The cost to have a mechanical key copied is fairly low however programming the chip in modern cars will typically cost more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key on hand and store it safely.
There are five different kinds of car keys, so it's important to know which one you have prior to receiving assistance in replacing it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your car. These aren't common anymore, but you should be able find them at your local hardware store for around $10.
The second type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with embedded security microchips that sends a message to the computer in the vehicle to unlock the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be done with special tools that are only accessible to a locksmith or car dealer. It could cost you $500 or more based on the car's make and model.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their vehicle. They incorporate an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is near to your vehicle or when it is inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code which signals your car to start. This is a great feature as it wards off theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car, as a thief would need both the key and the transmitter to turn it off and drive off with it.
The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is typically higher than a traditional key, but only because it needs to be programmed as well. Most locksmiths will be competent to program keys that have transponders, but it is best to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to program it as well. This is because they typically have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys and could be able to give you a more competitive price.
Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it is important to research the key options prior to buying your next vehicle. You will be able to figure out which type of key will work with it and whether it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.
Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder system. These are more complicated because they require a special key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, since they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key has been cloned, it will not work with your car.
Regardless of what car key replacements of key you've got regardless of the type, it is essential that you do not attempt to break into your own vehicle by yourself. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will refuse to assist you if they see signs that your car has been opened or damaged. This could make it hard to get replacement parts, so be sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's much harder to lose or get stolen than a traditional key made of metal. These keys have no notches cut along the edges of the blade - instead, there's a winding groove which cuts to a specific depth up the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from above, it is easy to determine whether it's a fake or not. They are easy to spot, so you won't get locked out if you have your key lost while you're working or running errands.
If your key is a laser-cut one, you'll need to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment to make these types of replacements. Most of the time your local hardware store will not be able to create a new laser-cut key because they don't have the tools needed to cut and program these types of keys.
A locksmith uses an instrument that appears similar to a standard drill to mill the key's metal, which will be able to cut 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 cut to the specifications of your vehicle.
Laser-cut keys differ from traditional transponder keys since they do not contain any electronics or chips that can be changed. They must be destroyed and replaced by a new one. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are so expensive, since they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.
It's always recommended to keep at least one spare key in your possession in case you happen to lose your car keys. That way, you'll be able to call the locksmith and cut it and program it for you, so that you gain access to your vehicle again without needing to pay to have it tow-back to the dealership.
Fobs
You might not own an old classic vehicle, but your car probably uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Some locksmiths are able perform this reprogramming, however it is usually better to let your dealer handle it. They have the necessary tools and are familiar with your particular car to ensure that the reprogramming is done right.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob can 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 new mechanical backup key that you may want to have in case your key fob goes missing or stolen.
The loss of your car key used to be an inconvenience. Now, it's a huge problem. That's because modern cars have made keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now take keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in technology for car keys have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, however the one that comes with transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart key" comes with an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob, similar to an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to be lost or tucked inside the pocket of a coat. car key replacements are usually more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have a spare key fob that is in your car and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a business such as Amazon or an independent locksmith and key company that can program your automobiles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob at less than what a dealer would charge, costing as little as $200 or more. Be sure to purchase the fob and key that is the same model, year and model as your original to ensure that it is compatible with your vehicle.