How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It's never a good feeling to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the road.
If you lose your keys, it is a good idea to have a spare made. We have put together a guide on the price to replace the car key.
Mechanical Keys
Not long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big issue. You could buy a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. However, today's cars are much more advanced in technology and it is more expensive to replace the key that was lost.
The cheapest method of doing this is to hire an auto locksmith. They are usually capable of copying a basic metal key and do so at a cost of $50 or less. This kind of key isn't equipped with chip and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start an engine.
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 that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, for instance an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.
The cost of mechanical keys is affordable, however the programming chip in modern cars can cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is by making sure you always have a backup key and keep it somewhere secure.
It's crucial to know the type of car key you own before seeking assistance. A standard, older car key is a double-edged metal lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. These keys aren't as common however, they are available at your local home improvement store for around $10.
The next kind of car key is a transponder key that has an embedded security chip that transmits an electronic signal to the car's computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and it is only possible to copy it using specific tools that only a locksmith or a dealer can access. This can cost up to $500 or more depending on your car's model and make.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their car. They incorporate an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is inserted in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it transmits a code to signal your car to start. This is a great feature because it stops theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car since a burglar would require both the key and transmitter to turn it on before they could take off with it.
The cost of purchasing a new transponder keys is typically a little more expensive than a conventional key, but this is due to the fact that it must be programmed as well. It is possible to program a key transponder by most locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your dealer if they are able to do it. This is because they typically have the most experience with these types of keys, and may be able to provide you with a more competitive price.
Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems in place. It is crucial to conduct your research prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able find out what type of key works with it and if it requires a remote to unlock it.
Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder. These are more complicated as they require a specific key tool to program them. However, they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they're used. This means that if your keys were cloned it would not work in your car.
It is crucial that you do not try to break into your car 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 observe signs that your vehicle has been forced open or altered. This will make it extremely hard to get replacement parts, so be certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much harder to steal or lose than a metal key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edge of the blade. Instead there's car key replacements winding groove that cuts to a set depth across the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to distinguish between a genuine and fake key when looking at it from above. The fact that they're easy to recognize also means that you're less likely to risk getting locked out if you lose your keys while at work or running around.
If you own a laser-cut key, then you'll need to call a professional locksmith who has the necessary equipment to create these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store isn't likely to make you an alternative key that is laser-cut, as they lack the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.
A locksmith uses a machine that appears similar to a standard drill to mill the metal of the key, which will cut off the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code will be extracted from the VIN, and the key will be cut to match the specifications of your car.
Laser-cut keys differ from traditional transponder keys since they don't contain electronics or chips which can be altered. They must be destroyed and replaced by the new model. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive due to the complete rebuild of the key.
It's recommended to keep at least one spare key available in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. So you'll be able contact the locksmith to cut it and program it for you so that you'll gain access to your vehicle again, without needing to pay to have it towed back at the dealership.
Fobs
If you don't own a classic car, chances that your car is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that allow you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a key. These keys contain special computer chips that must be programmed to function with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming, but it is usually better to let your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and have all the necessary tools.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob could be as high as $500 depending on whether it's smart key or remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key that you might wish to have in the event your fob is lost or stolen.
The loss of your car keys was once a hassle. Now, it's a huge issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern automobiles have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves can steal keys. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal the keys.
These new keys come in a variety of shapes and sizes however the most expensive one is one that comes with the transponder and mechanical key inside the same fob. This "smart key" has an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob, like the switchblade, making it less likely to be lost or tucked inside the pocket of a coat. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the assistance of a dealership to replace.
If you have a spare key fob that works in your car and can be cloned, consider trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key specialist that can program your automobiles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob at an affordable price compared to what a dealership will charge, thereby costing as little as $200 or more. Be sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, make and model as your previous so it can be coded to work with your vehicle.