How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO’s Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads.
If you lose your keys it is recommended to make a backup. To make this more convenient, we have created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn’t that long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge deal. You could purchase a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more advanced in technology, and it’s much more costly to replace keys lost.
Employing an auto locksmith is the cheapest option. They usually can duplicate 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 have transponders or chips which must be programmed to work properly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they are doing, for instance a local locksmith or a car dealer service professional.
The cost of having a mechanical key copied is fairly low however, the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key in your car and store it safely.
It is important to determine the kind of car key you have before contacting a Locksmith Near Me Car Key Replacement. A classic, old-fashioned car key has 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 next type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the car’s computers to open the doors and begin the engine. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be duplicated using special tools that are only accessible to a locksmith car dealer. It could cost you $500 or more depending on the model and make.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by automobiles to connect with their car. They incorporate microchips in the keys. When the key is put in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic car key replacement code that signals your car to begin. This is a great feature to have because it deters theft. However, it makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar requires both the right key and transmitter to turn on your car and then drive off with it.
The cost of a new transponder key is usually a little more expensive than a conventional key, but that is because it needs to be programmed as well. It is possible to program a key transponder by the majority of locksmiths, however it is best to inquire with your dealer about whether they are able to do it. They are the best choice as they have the best experience in programming these keys, and they can provide you with a better price.
Many automakers have their own anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it is crucial to research the most important options prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able to find out which kind of key it is compatible with and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Some newer vehicles come with a transponder password system. They are a little more complex as they require a special key tool to program them. However they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key is duplicated, it won’t work with your vehicle.
No matter what kind of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital to never attempt to open the door of your vehicle yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies. Many mechanics won’t help you if they notice signs that your vehicle has been opened or tampered with. This could make it hard to get replacement parts, so be certain to contact an professional 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 steal than a conventional metal key. These keys have no notches cut along the edge of the blade. Instead, there’s a winding groove that cuts to a set depth across the middle of the key’s face. When you look at the key from the top, it is easy to tell if it’s a fake or not. The fact that they’re so easy to recognize also means that you’re not at risk of getting locked out if you misplace your keys while at work or doing around.
If your key is laser-cut you’ll need to call an locksmith who has equipment for these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store will not be able to make you the replacement key laser-cut as they lack the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.
Locksmiths use an apparatus that looks like an ordinary drill to cut the metal of the key. This will reduce the entire surface until it is the desired length. The unique code of the key is then extracted from the VIN and the key is then cut according to your vehicle’s specifications.
Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys don’t have any electronic components or chips inside of them that can be replaced, so they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. This is why laser-cut keys are so expensive, since they require a total rebuild of the entire key.
Have at least one spare car key in your possession just in case. That way, you’ll be able to call the locksmith to cut it and program it for you so that you can gain access to your vehicle again without needing to pay to have it tow-back to the dealership.
Fobs
Unless you own an old classic car, the chances are your vehicle uses one of the latest high-tech fobs that allow you to open and start your car without having a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed in order to work with the vehicle you own. Fortunately, some locksmiths can perform this reprogramming on your behalf but it’s generally best to have your dealer do it. They have the right tools and are well-versed in your particular 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 use and if it’s remote-controlled or smart. This doesn’t include the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you might want to have in case your fob gets lost or stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car key was an inconvenience However, now it’s a major issue. That’s because modern cars have made keys so easy and reliable that thieves are now able to steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in car key technologies have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, but the one that comes with transponder and a mechanical key is most expensive. This “smart key” comes with an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob, similar to the switchblade, making it less likely to be lost or tucked inside pockets like a coat. These are typically pricier than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the assistance of a dealership to replace.
If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be cloned to work in another vehicle, you may want to consider ordering an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or a key and lock specialist who can program a variety of vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob for a much lower cost than what a dealership would charge, which could save you $200 or more. Just make sure the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as your original so it can be coded to work with your car.
