How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of keys to your car is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road fast by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
If you lose your keys, it is recommended to have a spare made. 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 the car key was not a big issue. You could purchase an extra key and then use it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it's much more expensive to replace keys lost.
An auto locksmith can be the cheapest option. They are usually able to duplicate a metal key for less than $50. This kind of key doesn't have chip and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start an engine.
This is due to the fact that modern car keys come with transponders or chips that have to be programmed to function correctly. This is only done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional in service.
The cost of mechanical keys is affordable, however the programming chip that is used in a modern car will usually 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.
It's crucial to know the kind of car key you have before seeking help. A more traditional, older car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder, and turned to turn on your car. These aren't common anymore, but you should be able find them at your local hardware store for about $10.
The second type is the transponder car key. This key has an embedded security microchip which sends a signal to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and start the engine. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be done with special tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith dealer of cars. The cost of this service can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your car.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their car. They use microchips in the keys. When the key is near to your car or placed in the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is a great feature to have because it helps to prevent theft. However, it also makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar will require both the correct key and the transmitter to turn your car on and take it away.
The cost of a new transponder key is usually a little more expensive than a conventional key, but this is due to the fact that it must be programmed as well. Locksmiths are generally competent to program the transponder key, however it is best to ask your dealership if they can do so also. They are the best choice because they have the most knowledge of programming these keys and will offer you a better price.
Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it's crucial to research the most important options before you purchase your next car. You should be able find out what type of key works with it and whether it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.
Some of the latest cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. They are a little more complex as they require a specific key tool 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 if your keys were duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.
Whatever type of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital that you do not attempt to open the door of your vehicle yourself. replacement car key cost could be a red flag to insurance companies and could cause many mechanics to refuse to help you out, especially if they see signs that the vehicle has been altered or forced open. This will make it extremely difficult to obtain replacement parts, so be sure to speak with an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much harder to take or lose than a traditional key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along the edge. Instead, they have a groove that is cut to a specific depth on the key's face. This makes it very easy to distinguish between a genuine and fake key when looking at it from above. They are easy to spot, so you won't get locked out if you have your key lost while doing errands or working.
If your key is laser-cut you'll need to call a locksmith that has specialized equipment for making these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit isn't likely to provide you with an alternative key that is laser-cut, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this kind of key fob.
A locksmith will use an instrument that resembles the drill used in standard homes to cut the key's metal. This will reduce all the surface to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then extracted 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 electronics or chips inside of them that can be replaced, which means they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive since they require a full reconstruction of the key.
Keep a spare car key in your possession just in case. You can then contact an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that 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 latest high-tech fobs which allow you to open and start your car without a key. These keys come with computer chips that must be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming, however it is generally better to let your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are knowledgeable about the specific vehicle you have, which can ensure it's done correctly.
Getting your car key fob replaced could cost as high as $500, based on the type of key you use and if it's remote-controlled or smart. That's not even including the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you may need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car keys was a hassle however, it's now a real problem. The reason is that modern cars have made the keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now steal keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in car key technology 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 a transponder as well as mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart" key comes with a spring-loaded shank which folds in the fob to form a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or put in a pocket of a coat. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the help of a dealer to replace.
If you have a spare key fob that is in your vehicle and can be cloned, consider trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a firm such as Amazon or a third-party key and lock specialist which offers programming for a variety of automobiles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob at less than what a dealer will charge, thereby which could save you $200 or more. Be sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as your previous to ensure it is programmed to work with your car.