How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It is never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road fast with Emergency Roadside Service.
It is a good plan to order a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. To make this more convenient, we have put together a guide to how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big deal. You could simply buy a spare key, and use it to turn the ignition. Today, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and it is much more expensive to replace keys lost.
An auto locksmith can be the most affordable option. They are usually able to duplicate a metal key for less than $50. This type of key doesn't have chip and won't be able to unlock doors or start engines.
This is because modern automobile keys are equipped with transponders or chips that have to be programmed in order to function properly. This can only by done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like a local locksmith or a car dealer service professional.
The cost of a mechanical key is relatively inexpensive, however the programming chip used in the latest cars will typically cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is by making sure you have a backup key and that you keep it in a safe place.
It's crucial to know the type of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged metal lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. These keys aren't as common however you should be able find them at your local hardware store for around $10.
The second type of car key is the transponder key with an embedded security chip that sends a signal to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and allow the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult 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. The cost for this could be up to $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your car.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by automobiles to connect 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 transmits a code to signal your car to start. This is a great feature to have as it discourages theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car since a burglar would require both the key and transmitter to turn it off and drive off with it.
Transponder keys cost just a bit more than a regular one, however, this is because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by most locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your car dealer if they can do it. This is because they usually have the most experience with these types of keys, and may be able to give you the most competitive price.
Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it's important to research the key options prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able to figure out which type of key works with it and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Some newer vehicles come with transponder password systems. These are more complicated because they require special tools to program them. However they are also more secure since they use rolling code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key has been copied, it will not work with your vehicle.
Whatever type of key you have regardless of the type, it is essential to never attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will not assist you if they observe indications that your car has been opened or altered. This will make it extremely hard to get a replacement, so be sure to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you own a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's much 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 that cuts to a set depth up the middle of the key's face. When replacement car key cost look at the key from the top it's easy to determine if it's a fake or not. They are easy to recognize and you won't be locked out if your key is lost while doing errands or working.
If you own an uncut laser key, you'll need to call a locksmith professional who has the necessary equipment to create these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases your local hardware store won't be able make you a new laser-cut key because they don't have the tools needed to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.
A locksmith will employ an apparatus that looks like a standard drill in order to mill the key's metal. This will reduce the entire surface to the desired length. The unique key's code is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.
Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not contain any electronics or chips inside that can be replaced, so they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are expensive, since they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.
Keep at least one spare car key in your possession just in case of. Then, you can call an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that you can be back in your vehicle without having to pay for it to be towed by the dealer.
Fobs
Unless you own an old classic car, chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs which allow you to open and start your vehicle without the need for a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that need to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming but it is usually recommended to let your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and have all the tools needed.
Getting your car key fob replaced can cost as much as $500, based on the type of key you drive and if it's remote-controlled or smart. That's not even including the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key you might wish to have in the event your fob is lost or stolen.
The loss of your car key was once a source of frustration. Now it's a serious problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys that useful and reliable that thieves are able to steal them. The advances in the technology of car keys have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, but the one that comes with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart key" comes with an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds down into the fob, like the switchblade, making it less likely to be lost or get tucked away in the pocket of a coat. They are generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the help of a dealer to replace.
If you have an additional fob that works with your vehicle and that can be duplicated to work in a different vehicle, you might be interested in purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a company such as Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who can program many different vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob at a much lower cost than what a dealership will charge, thereby which could save you $200 or more. Make sure you buy a key and fob that's the identical model, year, and make as your original to ensure it can be programmed to your vehicle.