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 roads.
When automotive car key replacement lose your key, it is recommended to make a backup. To make this easier, we have created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big issue. You could simply buy a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace keys lost.
The cheapest way to do this is to hire an auto locksmith. They usually can duplicate a metal key for less than $50. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with a chip and won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
Modern car keys have transponders, or chips, that need to be programmed in order to function properly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who knows what they're doing, for instance the local locksmith or an expert from a dealership's service department.
The cost to have an electronic key copied is relatively cheap, but the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that you always have a backup key, and keep it in a safe place.
It's crucial to know the type of car keys you have before contacting a locksmith. An older, standard car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your car. These keys aren't as common however, you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for about $10.
The next 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. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a standard mechanical key, and can only be copied with special tools that only a locksmith or a car dealer has access to. It can cost as high as $500 or more based on your car's model and make.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by automobiles to connect with their car. They use microchips in the keys. When the key is placed close to your vehicle or inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that tells your car to begin. This feature is beneficial because it deters theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car, as a thief would need both the key and the transmitter to turn it on before they could take off with it.
The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is usually slightly more expensive than a conventional key, but this is due to the fact that it needs to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be capable of programming keys that have transponders, but it is recommended to inquire with your car dealer if they can do so also. They are the best option since they have the most knowledge of programming these keys, and they can offer you a better price.
A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it's important to research the key options before you purchase your next vehicle. You should be able to find out what type of key is compatible with it and whether it requires a remote to unlock it.
Some newer vehicles come with a transponder-based password system. These are more complex as they require specialized tools to program them. However they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your key were copied, it will not work in your car.
Whatever type of key you've got, it is crucial that you never try to open the door of your vehicle yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they see signs that your car was opened or altered. This will make it extremely difficult to obtain a replacement, so be sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a car that has a laser cut key, you'll see that it's a lot harder 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 is cut to a particular depth on the key's face. When you look at the key from above it's easy to tell whether it's fake or not. They are easy to recognize, so you won't get locked out if your key is lost while you're working or running errands.
If your key is a laser-cut one then you'll have to contact an locksmith who has equipment to make these types of replacements. Your local hardware store isn't likely to make you a laser-cut replacement key, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this type of key fob.
A locksmith will use an instrument that appears similar to a standard drill to cut the metal of the key. This will be able to cut the entire surface of the key 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.
Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not have any chips or electronics inside them that could be replaced, which means that they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive because they require a full reconstruction of the key.
It's recommended to keep at least one spare key available in case you happen to lose your car keys. You can then call an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can get back into your car without having to pay for it to be tow back to the dealer.
Fobs
There's a chance that you don't own an old classic vehicle, but your car probably uses one of the newest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys have special electronic chips that have to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Certain locksmiths can perform this reprogramming, however it is generally best to let your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are well-versed in your particular car, which can ensure it's done correctly.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob can be as high as $500, depending on whether it's a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This does not include the cost of a mechanical backup key that you may need in the event your fob gets lost or stolen.
It used to be that losing your car key was a pain However, now it's a major issue. automotive car key replacement , CARiD's training director, explains that the modern cars have made keys so convenient and powerful that thieves are able to take keys. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal the keys.
The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the one that comes with a transponder as well as mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart key" has a spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob, like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or get tucked away in a coat pocket. These keys are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be cloned to work in a different vehicle, you may be interested in purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or a key and lock specialist that offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge which could save you up to $200 or more. Be sure to purchase a fob and a key that is the identical model, year, and make as your original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.