How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road fast with Emergency Roadside Service.
It is a good plan to purchase a spare key before you lose yours. We have compiled a list on the cost to replace a car key.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, losing or losing the car key was not a big problem. You could buy an extra key and then use it in the ignition. However, modern automobiles are more technologically advanced and it is more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.
The most affordable method to accomplish this is to hire an auto locksmith. They are usually able to duplicate a metal key for less than $50. However, this kind of key doesn't have a chip and won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
This is because modern car keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to function correctly. This is only done by a professional who knows what they are doing, for instance the local locksmith or car dealer service professional.
The cost to get an electronic key copied is relatively cheap, but the programming of the chip in modern cars will usually cost more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key and keep it safe.
It's crucial to know the type of car keys you have before seeking help. An older, standard car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder and then turned to start your vehicle. key replacements car aren't as common however, you should be able find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.
The next type is a transponder car key. This key has an embedded security microchip that sends a message to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key, and it can only be copied using special tools that only a locksmith or a dealer in the car industry has access to. This can cost up to $500 or more, depending on the model and make.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their car. They are equipped with an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is inserted into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it sends an encoded code that allows your car to start. This is a wonderful feature to have since it helps to prevent theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car, because a burglar will need both the key and the transmitter to turn it on and take off with it.
Transponder keys cost a little bit more than a regular one, but that's only because it has to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be competent to program keys that have transponders, but it is recommended to ask your car dealership whether they are able to do this also. They are the best option since they have the most experience in programming these keys and will offer you a better price.
Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems. It is important to do your research prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able find out which type of key will work with it and if it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.
Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder password system. They are a little more complicated because they require a particular key tool to program them. However, they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that even if the key is duplicated, it won't work with your car.
Whatever type of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital to never attempt to open the door of your vehicle by yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics will not assist you if they notice indications that your car was opened or damaged. It will be very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so make sure you contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a vehicle with a laser-cut key, you'll see that it's more difficult to lose or be stolen than a conventional metal key. These keys do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they have a groove that's cut to a certain depth in the middle of the face of the key. When you look at the key from above it's easy to tell whether it's fake or not. The fact that they're easy to identify also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out if you misplace your keys while at work or running errands.
If you have an uncut laser key, you'll need to talk to a locksmith professional who has the right equipment to make these kinds of replacements. In most cases your local hardware store isn't able to make you an original laser-cut key since they don't have the tools needed to cut and program these types of key fobs.
A locksmith uses a machine that looks very similar to a standard drill to cut the metal of the key. This will be able to cut the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The key's unique code can be retrieved from the VIN and the key will be cut to match your vehicle's specifications.
Laser-cut keys differ from regular transponder key because they do not contain any electronic chips or electronics which can be altered. They have to be destroyed and replaced with the new model. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are expensive, since they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.
It's an excellent idea to have at least one spare key on hand in case you do accidentally lose your car key. So you'll be able call the locksmith to have it cut and programmed for you so that you'll gain access to your vehicle without needing to pay to have it tow back at the dealership.
Fobs
Unless you own an old classic car, chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that permit you to unlock and start the vehicle without the need for a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming but it is usually best to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and have all the tools needed.
Getting your car key fob changed can cost as high as $500, depending on the type of key you use and whether it's smart or just remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key that you may wish to have in the event your key fob goes missing or stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car key was a hassle however, it's now a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern cars have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves are able to take keys. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal the keys.
The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, however the one that has both a transponder as well as mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart" key comes with a spring-loaded shank which can fold into the fob in the same way as a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or hidden in a coat pocket. These keys are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be duplicated to work in another vehicle, you may think about purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock that offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for much less than what a dealer charges and save yourself up to $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a fob and a key that is the identical model, year, and model as your original to ensure that it can be programmed for your vehicle.