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.
Before you lose your key It is an ideal idea to have a spare. To make this more convenient, we have created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big deal. You could purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. However, modern cars are much more advanced in technology and it's more costly to replace keys that have been lost.
The cheapest method of doing this is to employ an auto locksmith. They are usually capable of copying a standard metal key for about $50 or less. However, this kind of key doesn't have an electronic chip, and therefore will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.
This is because modern car keys are equipped with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed in order to work correctly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they're doing, like an auto locksmith in your area or a car dealership service professional.
The cost of a mechanical key is relatively affordable, however the programming chip used in modern cars can cost you more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to make sure you always have a backup key and that you keep it in a safe place.
It's important to identify the type of car keys you have before contacting a locksmith. A standard, older car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to start your car. Keys like these aren't as popular however you can find them at your local home improvement store for $10.
The next type of car key is the transponder key, which has an embedded security chip that transmits 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 standard mechanical key, and can only be copied with specific tools that only a locksmith or a dealer can access. The cost for this can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their car. They are equipped with an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is close to your vehicle or placed in the ignition, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is a great feature to have as it helps to prevent theft. But, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar requires both the right key and the transmitter to start your car and then drive off with it.
A transponder key costs just a bit more than a regular key but that's only because it has to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be able to program keys that have transponders, but it is best to ask your dealership whether they are able to do this also. This is because they often have the most experience with these kinds of keys, and may be able to give you a more competitive price.
Many automotive manufacturers have their own distinct anti-theft strategies in place. It is essential to conduct your research prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which type of key works with it and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder password system. These are more complex as they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, since they employ rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key is copied, it will not work with your car.
No matter what kind of key you have regardless of the type, it is essential to never attempt to open the door of your car yourself. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics won't help you if they notice signs that your vehicle has been opened or tampered with. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a new key, so contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a vehicle with a laser-cut key, you'll see that it's a lot harder to lose or steal than a conventional metal key. The keys don't have a notch along the edge. Instead, they have a groove that is cut to a specific depth along the key's face. This makes it very easy to differentiate between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from above. The fact that they're so easy to identify also means that you can avoid being locked out in the event that you lose your keys while working or running around.
If your key is laser-cut you'll need to call a locksmith that has specialized equipment for these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit is unlikely to be able provide you with a laser-cut replacement key, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.
A locksmith will use a machine that appears like a standard drill to cut the metal of the key, which will cut off the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code will be found from the VIN, and the key will be cut to match your vehicle's specifications.
Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys don't have any electronic components or chips inside them that could be replaced, which means they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys are expensive since they require a complete rebuild of the key.
Keep a spare car key in your possession just in case of. So, you'll be able to contact the locksmith to cut it and program it for you so that you have access to your car again without having to pay to get it tow-back at the dealership.
Fobs
You might not have an old-fashioned car, but your car probably utilizes the latest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that need to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Fortunately, some locksmiths can perform this reprogramming on your behalf, though it's usually best to have your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are well-versed in the specific vehicle you have, which can ensure it's done right.
Getting your car key fob changed can cost up to $500, based on the type of key you drive and whether it's a smart or remote-controlled. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key you might need in the event that your fob gets lost or stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car key was an inconvenience however, it's now a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys so convenient and powerful that thieves can steal them. Fortunately, replacement car key costs in car key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal the keys.
The new keys come in a variety of shapes and sizes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that includes the transponder and mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart key" comes with an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob, similar to a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or get tucked away in pockets like a coat. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have a spare key fob that works in your vehicle and can be duplicated, think about trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or an independent locksmith and key specialist which offers programming for a variety of automobiles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for much cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge, saving yourself around $200 or more. Make sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, make and model as your previous so it can be coded to work with your vehicle.