How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing keys to your car is not a pleasant experience. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road in a hurry by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
It is a good plan to order a spare key before you lose yours. To make it easier, we have created a list of the cost of replacement car keys. cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big problem. You could simply buy a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it's much more expensive to replace lost keys.
The cheapest method of doing this is to employ an auto locksmith. They can usually copy a key made of metal for less than $50. However, this kind of key doesn't have an electronic chip, and therefore won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
Modern car keys include transponders, also known as chips, that need to be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, like the local locksmith or an expert from a dealership's service department.
The cost of mechanical keys is affordable, however the programming chip that is used in the latest cars will typically cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to make sure you always have a backup key, and that you keep it somewhere safe.
There are five distinct types of car keys available, therefore it is important to identify which one you have prior to seeking help to replace it. An older, standard car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your car. Keys like these aren't as popular however you can find them at your local home improvement store for around $10.
The second type of car key is a transponder key, which has an embedded security chip that sends a signal to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and enable the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key, and is only possible to copy it using specialized tools that only a locksmith or a dealer can access. The cost for this could be as high as $500 or more, based on the model and make of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their vehicle. They incorporate an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is placed into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it sends an encoded code that allows your car to begin. This is a great feature because it stops theft. However, it also makes stealing your car more difficult as a burglar will need both the correct key and the transmitter in order to turn on your car and then drive off with it.
A transponder key costs slightly more than a regular key however, it's because it needs to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be able to program a transponder key, but it is recommended to ask your dealership if they can do so as well. This is because they typically have the most experience with these kinds of keys, and may be able to offer you a more competitive price.
Many automakers have their own unique anti-theft mechanisms in place. It is important to do your research prior to buying your next vehicle. You will be able to figure out which type of key works with it and if it requires an unlocking device via a remote.
Certain newer cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complicated because they require a particular key tool to program them. However they are more secure because they employ rolling code encryption to change the password every time they are 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 by yourself, regardless of the type of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics won't help you if they notice indications that your car was opened or tampered with. It will be very difficult to get a new key, so you should contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll see that it's more difficult to lose or be stolen than a traditional key made of metal. These keys have no notches cut along the edges of the blade - instead there's a groove that cuts to a certain depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from above it's easy to determine whether it's a fake or not. They are easy to identify and will not get locked out if you have your key lost while working or running errands.
If you have an uncut laser key, you'll need to talk to an expert locksmith who has the necessary equipment to make these types of replacements. Most of the time, your local hardware store won't be able make you a new laser-cut key because they don't have the machinery needed to cut and program these kinds of keys.
A locksmith will employ an instrument that appears similar to a standard drill to mill the metal of the key, which will cut off the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The key's unique code can be extracted from the VIN and the key will be cut to match your vehicle's specifications.
Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not contain any electronics or chips inside them that could be replaced, which means they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. This is why laser-cut keys are expensive, as they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.
Keep a spare car key in your possession just in case of. That way you'll be able call the locksmith and cut and program the key for you, so that you'll have access to your car without needing to pay to have it tow back to the dealership.
Fobs
If you don't own a classic car, chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs which allow you to open and start the vehicle without the need for a key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that need to be programmed in order to work with the car you own. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming, however it's better to let your dealer do it. They have the right tools and are knowledgeable about your specific car to ensure that the reprogramming is done correctly.
The cost of having your car's key fob replaced could cost as high as $500, depending on the type of key you drive and if it's remote-controlled or smart. This doesn't 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 an inconvenience however, it's now a major issue. automotive key replacement 's because modern cars have made the keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in technology for car keys have made it more difficult for thieves.
The new keys are available in a variety of dimensions and shapes, but the one that has both a transponder as well as a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart key" features an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds into the fob like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or get tucked away in a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.
If you have a spare fob that works in your vehicle and could be cloned, consider trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a business such as Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key specialist that can program your vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob for an affordable price compared to the price a dealership will charge, thereby saving up to $200 or more. Just make sure the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, model and model as your previous so it can be coded to work with your vehicle.