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.
Before you lose your key, it is recommended to have a spare made. To make it easier, we have put together a guide to the cost of replacement car keys. cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big deal. You could buy an extra and put it in the ignition. However, modern automobiles are much more advanced in technology and it is more expensive to replace a lost key.
The most affordable method to accomplish this is to get an auto locksmith. They are usually able to copy a basic metal key and do so for about $50 or less. However, this type of key doesn't come with an electronic chip, and therefore won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
This is due to the fact that modern car keys come with transponders or chips that have to be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only by done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like the local locksmith or car dealer professional in service.
The cost of having an electronic key copied is relatively low however programming the chip in modern cars will typically cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to make sure you always have a backup key, and keep it in a safe place.
There are car key replacements of car keys, therefore it is important to identify the type you have before seeking help to replace it. A more traditional, older car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder, and turned to turn on your car. These keys aren't as common however you should be able find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.
The second type of car key is the transponder with an embedded security chip that transmits an electronic signal to the car's computer system to unlock the doors and enable the engine to start. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and can only be done with specific tools that are only available to a locksmith or dealer of cars. The cost of this service can be up to $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your car.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their vehicle. They use an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is placed close to your vehicle or inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is a great feature to have as it deters theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car as a thief would need both the key and transmitter to turn it off and drive off with it.
Transponder keys cost slightly more than a regular key, however, it's because it needs to be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be competent to program the transponder key, however it is recommended to ask your dealership if they can do so also. They are the best option because they have the most expertise in programming these keys and can offer you a better price.
A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems. It is essential to conduct your research prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able find out which type of key it is compatible with and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with transponder password systems. These are more complicated as they require a specific key tool to program them. However they are also more secure because they employ rolling code encryption to change the password each time they're used. This means that even if the key is duplicated, it won't work with your vehicle.
Whatever type of key you've got regardless of the type, it is essential that you do not attempt to break into your own vehicle yourself. This could be a red flag to insurance companies and could cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help you out, especially if they see signs that the vehicle has been damaged or opened. This can make it very difficult to obtain an exchange, so make sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
You'll find a laser-cut key is much harder to take or lose than a metal key. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edge of the blade - instead, there's a winding groove which cuts to a specific depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from the top, it is easy to tell whether it's fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to identify also means that you can avoid being locked out if you misplace your keys while working or running errands.
If you own keys that have been laser-cut, you will need to contact a locksmith professional who has the necessary equipment to make these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store isn't likely to make you the replacement key laser-cut because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.
Locksmiths use an apparatus that looks like the drill used in standard homes to cut the metal of the key. This will reduce the entire surface to the desired length. The unique key's code is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut to the specifications of your vehicle.
Laser-cut keys differ from regular transponder key because they don't contain electronic chips or electronics which can be altered. They have to be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. This is the reason why laser-cut keys can be expensive, since they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.
It's always a good idea to keep at least one spare key available in the event that you accidentally lose your car keys. So you'll be able contact the locksmith to have it cut and programmed for you so that you can have access to your car again, without needing to pay to have it tow back by the dealership.
vehicle key replacement
There's a chance that you don't own an old classic vehicle however, your car likely uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to unlock and start it without a traditional key. These keys contain special computer chips that must be programmed to function with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming, however it is generally better to let your dealer do it. They have the right tools and are well-versed in the specific vehicle you have to ensure that the reprogramming is done correctly.
The cost of replacing your car key fob could be up to $500 based on whether it's a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you may want to have in case your fob gets lost or stolen.
The loss of your car key was once a hassle. It's now a major issue. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in car key technologies have made it harder for thieves.
The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, but the one that has both transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart" key features 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 put into a coat pocket. These are typically pricier than simple remote-controlled fobs and could require the assistance of a dealer to replace.
If you have an additional fob that works with your vehicle and that can be copied to work in another vehicle, you may be interested in purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist that offers programming for various vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge and save yourself around $200 or more. Make sure you buy the fob and key that has the same year, model and make as your original to ensure it can be programmed for your vehicle.