How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of your car keys is not a pleasant experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road fast with Emergency Roadside Service.
It is a good plan to purchase an extra key before you lose yours. To make this more convenient we've created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge deal. You could simply buy a spare key, and use it to turn the ignition. However, modern automobiles are much more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.
Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They will usually be capable of copying a standard metal key and do so for about $50 or less. However, this type of key doesn't have chips and will not be able to open 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 is only done by a professional who knows what they're doing, like an auto locksmith in your area or an auto dealership service professional.
The cost of mechanical keys is low, but the programming chip used in a modern car will usually cost you more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key and store it safely.
There are five distinct types of car keys, therefore it is important to identify the type you have before receiving assistance in replacing 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 start your vehicle. They're not as common however, you can find them at your local home improvement store for $10.
The next type is a transponder car key. This key has embedded security microchips which sends a signal to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and start the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a standard mechanical key, and it is only possible to copy it using special tools that only a locksmith or a car dealer has access to. The cost of this service can be up to $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your car.
Transponder Keys
Cars with transponder keys use an embedded microchip in the key to communicate with your car. When the key is near to your vehicle, or placed in the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that tells your car to start. This is a great feature because it stops theft. But, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult since a thief will need both the correct key and transmitter in order to turn on your car and drive away with it.
The cost of a brand new transponder key is typically higher than a traditional key, but this is due to the fact that it must be programmed as well. It is possible to program a key transponder by many locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your dealer if they can do it. This is because they typically have the most experience with these types of keys, and may be able to give you an affordable price.
Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it is important to research the key options prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able to figure out which kind of key works with it and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.
Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder-based password system. These are more complicated because they require specialized tools to program them. However they are also more secure as they use rolling code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that if your key were cloned it would not work in your car.
Regardless of what type of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital to never attempt to break into your own car yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies and cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help particularly if they notice signs that the car has been tampered with or opened. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a replacement key, so you should contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a vehicle equipped with a laser cut key, you'll see that it's a lot harder to lose or steal than a traditional metal key. These keys do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they have a groove that is cut to a particular depth on the key's face. When looking at the key from the top it's easy to determine if it's a fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to recognize also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out if you happen to misplace your keys while at work or doing around.
If you own a laser-cut key, then you will need to contact an expert locksmith who has the right equipment to make these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store is unlikely to be able provide you with a laser-cut replacement key, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this type of key fob.
car key replacement near me will employ a machine that appears like a standard drill to cut the key's metal, which will remove the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code will then be extracted from the VIN, and the key will then be cut to meet your vehicle's specifications.
Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys don't have any chips or electronics inside of them 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 so expensive, since they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.
It's always recommended to keep at least one spare key available in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. Then, you can call an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can be back in your vehicle without having to pay for it to be towed by the dealer.
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 permit you to unlock and start your car without having a key. These keys have special computer chips that must be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming but it's recommended to have your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are familiar with your particular car, which can ensure it's done correctly.
The cost of having your car's key fob replaced can cost as much as $500, depending on the type of key you drive and whether it's smart or just remote-controlled. This does not include the cost of a mechanical backup key you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car key was a hassle however, it's now an actual issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys so convenient and powerful that thieves can steal them. 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 dimensions and shapes, but the one that has both transponder and mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart key" comes with a spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob, similar to a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or get tucked away in a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the assistance of a dealership to replace.
If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and that can be cloned to work with another vehicle, you may think about purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a business like Amazon or a key and lock specialist who can program various vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for much less than what a dealer charges, saving yourself up to $200 or more. Make sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, model and model as the original so it can be coded to work with your car.