How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road quickly with Emergency Roadside Service.
It is a good plan to purchase an extra key before you lose yours. We have compiled a list on the cost to replace a car key.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big deal. You could just buy a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it’s much more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.
Employing an auto locksmith is the most affordable alternative. They are usually able to duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. However, this kind of key isn’t equipped with an electronic chip, and therefore will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.
This is because modern automobile keys are equipped with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only be done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer service professional.
The cost of having a mechanical key copied is fairly low, but the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key in your car and store it safely.
There are five types of car keys, so it’s important to know which one you have before receiving assistance in replacing it. An older, standard car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and then turned to start your vehicle. These aren’t common anymore however, you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for around $10.
The second type of car key is the transponder key that has an embedded security chip that sends an electronic signal to the car’s computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key, and it can only be copied with specialized tools that only a locksmith or dealer can access. The cost for this could be as high as $500 or more, based on the model and make of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their vehicle. They are equipped with a microchip in the key. When the key is close to your car, or inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that tells your car to start. This is a great feature to have since 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 and drive off with it.
A transponder key is slightly more than a regular one, however, it’s because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by many locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your car dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best option as they have the best expertise in programming these keys and will offer you a better price.
Many automakers have their own anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it’s crucial to research the most important options before you purchase your next car. You should be able to find out which type of key is compatible with it, and whether or not it requires an unlocking device via a remote.
Some newer vehicles come with a transponder-based password system. These are a bit more complicated as they require a particular key tool to program them. However they are more secure because they employ rolling code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your key were cloned it would not work in your car.
No matter what kind of key you have, it is crucial to never attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself. This can be a red flag to insurance companies and will make mechanics reluctant to assist you, especially if they see signs that the car has been tampered with or opened. It will be very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so make sure you contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.
Laser-Cut Keys
A key that has been laser-cut is much harder to take or lose than a traditional key. The keys don’t have a notch along the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that’s cut to a particular depth along the key’s face. When you look at the key from above, it is easy to identify whether it’s fake or not. The fact that they’re easy to identify also means that you’re less likely to risk being locked out if you lose your keys while at work or running for errands.
If you have an uncut laser key, you will need to contact an expert locksmith who has the right equipment to make these types of replacements. The hardware store you visit isn’t likely to create 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 the drill used in standard homes to mill the metal of the key. This will cut the entire surface until it is the desired length. The unique code of the key is then obtained from the VIN and the key is cut to the specifications of your vehicle.
Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys don’t have any electronics or chips inside of them that can be replaced, which means that they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive since they require a full rebuild of the key.
Keep at least one spare car key in your possession just in case of. Then, you can 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 by the dealer.
Fobs
You may not have an old classic car, but your G28 Car Keys probably utilizes the latest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming, but it is usually best to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the necessary tools.
The cost of getting your car’s key fob replaced can cost up to $500, depending on the kind of key you use and if it’s remote-controlled or smart. This does not include the cost of an electronic backup key that you may want in case the fob goes missing or is stolen.
It used to be that losing your car key was an inconvenience, but now it’s an actual issue. Richard Reina, CARiD’s training director, explains that the modern cars have made keys so convenient and powerful that thieves can take them. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys come in various sizes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that has an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key within the same fob. This “smart” key features an elongated shank that is spring loaded and folds into the fob like an e-switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or tucked in a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the assistance of a dealership to replace.
If you have an additional fob that works with your vehicle and that can be cloned to work with another vehicle, you may be interested in purchasing an aftermarket replacement key for car from a company like Amazon or a key and lock specialist that offers programming for many different vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for much cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge which could save you around $200 or more. Make sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as the original to ensure it is programmed to work with your vehicle.
