How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It's never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the roads.
When you lose your key, it is a good idea to make a backup. We have compiled a guide on the price to replace keys for cars.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, losing or losing a car key was no big deal. You could just buy a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. However, modern automobiles are much more technologically advanced and it is more expensive to replace the key that was lost.
An auto locksmith can be the cheapest alternative. They are usually able to duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. However, this kind of key doesn't come with an electronic chip, and therefore isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
Modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, which must be programmed to work correctly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who knows what they're doing, such as the local locksmith or a car dealership service professional.
The cost of a mechanical key is relatively low, but the programming chip used in a modern car will usually cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is by making sure you always have a backup key and that you keep it in a safe place.
It's crucial to know the type of car key you have before seeking help. An older, standard car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your vehicle. These aren't common anymore, but you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for about $10.
The second type of car key is a transponder key that has an embedded security chip that transmits an electronic signal to the car's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key and can only be duplicated using specialized tools that are accessible to a locksmith dealer in the car. It can cost as high as $500 or more depending on the car's make and model.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys have a microchip inside of the key that communicates with your car. When the key is put in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is an excellent feature to have because it discourages theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult since a thief will require both the correct key and the transmitter to turn on your car and drive away with it.
Transponder keys cost just a bit more than a regular one, but that's only because it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by most locksmiths, but you should always ask your dealer about whether they are able to do it. They are the best choice since they have the most knowledge of programming these keys and will offer you a better price.
Many automotive manufacturers have their own unique anti-theft systems in place. It is important to do your research prior to purchasing your next car. You will be able to figure out what type of key will work with it and whether it requires a remote to unlock it.
Some newer vehicles come with transponder password systems. They are more complicated as they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, since they employ rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your key were cloned it would not work in your car.
It is crucial to not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the type of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will not assist you if they see indications that your car has been opened or damaged. It is very difficult to get a new key, so make sure you contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.
Laser-Cut Keys
It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much more difficult to steal 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 in the middle of the face of the key. When you look at the key from above it's easy to determine whether it's fake or not. They are easy to identify and you won't be locked out if your key is lost while doing errands or working.
If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact locksmiths that have equipment for making these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases, your local hardware store isn't able to create a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the machinery needed to cut and program these types of keys.
A locksmith uses a machine that appears like a standard drill to cut the key's metal, which will remove the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The unique code of the key is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut according to your vehicle's specifications.
In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys do not contain any electronics or chips inside of them that can be replaced, so they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a brand new key. This is why laser-cut keys are expensive, as they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.
It's recommended to keep at least one spare key in your possession in case you do accidentally lose your car key. That way you'll be able call the locksmith and cut it and program it for you, so that you'll gain access to your vehicle again, without needing to pay to have it tow-back at the dealership.
Fobs
Unless you own an old classic car, chances are your vehicle uses one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that allow you to open and start your vehicle without the need for a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that need to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Fortunately, some locksmiths can assist you in this process however it's better to have your dealer handle it. They have the necessary tools and are familiar with the specific vehicle you have to ensure that the reprogramming is done correctly.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob could be as high as $500 depending on whether it's smart key or remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of a mechanical backup key that you may need in the event the fob goes missing or is stolen.
The loss of your car key was once a hassle. It's now a major problem. That's because modern cars have made the keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in car key technologies have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, however the one that comes with transponder and mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart key" comes with a spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob like the switchblade, making it less likely to be lost or hidden in pockets like a coat. They are generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and could require the assistance of a dealership to replace.
If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and can be duplicated to work with another vehicle, you might want to consider ordering a replacement aftermarket from a company such as Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who offers programming for many different vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for less than what a dealer charges which could save you around $200 or more. Be car key replacements near me to purchase the fob and key that's the same year, model and make as the original to ensure that it is compatible with your vehicle.