How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of your car keys is never a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the road.
It is a good idea to order a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. We have compiled a guide on how much it costs to replace a car key.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big deal. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it's much more expensive to replace lost keys.
Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They are usually able to duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. This kind of key doesn't have chip and won't be able to unlock doors or start an engine.
This is because modern car keys come with transponders or chips that have to be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only be done by a professional who understands what they're doing, such as a local locksmith or even a car dealership service professional.
The cost of mechanical keys is affordable, however the programming chip used in modern cars can cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to ensure that you always have a backup key, and that you keep it somewhere safe.
There are five types of car keys available, so it's important to know the type you have before seeking help to replace it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your car. These keys aren't as common however they are available at your local home improvement store for about $10.
The second type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip that sends a message to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a standard mechanical key, and can only be copied using specific tools that only a locksmith or a car dealer has access to. This can cost up to $500 or more, depending on your car's model and make.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their car. They incorporate an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is close to your vehicle or when it is inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that tells your car to start. This feature is beneficial because it deters theft. However, it also makes stealing your car more difficult as a burglar will need both the correct key and transmitter to start your car and take it away.
The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is typically a little more expensive than a standard key, but that is because it must be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be competent to program a transponder key, but it is always best to ask your dealership whether they are able to program it also. They are the best choice as they have the best knowledge of programming these keys, and they can give you a better rate.
Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it is essential to research all the key options prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able find 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. They are a little more complicated because they require a particular key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, because they use rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your key was cloned it would not work in your car.
It is important that you do not try to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the type of key. This could be a red flag to insurance companies and could cause many mechanics to refuse to help, especially if they see indications that your vehicle has been altered or opened. This could make it difficult to obtain an exchange, so make sure to speak with an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a vehicle equipped with a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's more difficult to lose or get stolen than a traditional key made of metal. The keys don't have notches cut along the edges of the blade - instead there's a winding groove that cuts to a certain depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from above, it is easy to determine whether it's fake or not. They are easy to recognize, so you won't get locked out of your home if your key gets lost while you're working or running errands.
If you own an uncut laser key, you will need to contact an expert locksmith who has the right equipment to create these kinds of replacements. Most of the time the hardware store you visit isn't able to make an original laser-cut key since they don't have the machinery needed to cut and program these types of keys.
A locksmith will employ an instrument that resembles an ordinary drill to cut the metal of the key. This will cut all the surface to the desired length. The key's unique code will then be found from the VIN and the key will be cut to meet the specifications of your car.
Laser-cut keys are different from a normal transponder keys because they do not have electronic chips or electronics that can be replaced. They must be destroyed and replaced with an entirely new model. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive due to the full reconstruction of the key.
It's always recommended to keep at least one spare key on hand in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. This way you'll be able call the locksmith and cut and program the key for you, so that you can have access to your car without needing to pay to have it tow back at the dealership.
Fobs
You might not have an old-fashioned car but your vehicle probably uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to open and start it without a traditional key. These keys contain special computer chips that must be programmed to function with the vehicle you own. Fortunately, automotive car key replacement G28CarKeys can assist you in this process but it's generally better to have your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are familiar with the specific vehicle you have and can ensure that it's done correctly.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob could be as high as $500 depending on whether it is a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that your fob gets lost or stolen.
It used to be that losing your car key was an inconvenience, but now it's a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern cars have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves can steal them. The advances in technology for car keys have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.
These new keys come in different shapes and sizes, but the most expensive one is one that includes the transponder and mechanical key in the same fob. The "smart" key comes with a spring-loaded shank which folds in the fob to form the switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or hidden in a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealer.
If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be cloned to work in a different vehicle, you might want to consider ordering an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a key and lock specialist who offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob for an affordable price compared to what a dealer will charge, thereby costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, model and model as your original to ensure it is programmed to work with your vehicle.