How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.
If you lose your keys It is recommended to have a spare made. To make it easier, we have created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge deal. You could purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it is much more costly to replace keys lost.
An auto locksmith can be the cheapest option. They are usually able to duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. This kind of key isn't equipped with a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start engines.
This is because modern automobile keys are equipped with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to work properly. This can only by done by a professional who knows what they are doing, for instance the local locksmith or car dealer professional in service.
The cost of having a mechanical key copied is relatively low however, the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will typically run you 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 secure.
It's important to identify the type of car keys you have before contacting a locksmith. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged steel lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. These keys aren't as common however you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.
The second type is the transponder car key. This key has an embedded security microchip that transmits a message to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be duplicated using specific tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith car dealer. It could cost you $500 or more based on your car's model and make.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize an embedded microchip in the key that communicates with your car. When the key is close to your car, or inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code which signals your car to start. This is a great feature because it stops theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car, as a thief would need both the key and the transmitter to turn it off and take off with it.
Transponder keys cost a little bit more than a regular one, but that's only because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by most locksmiths, but you should always ask your car dealer if they can do it. This is because they usually have the most experience with these types of keys, and may be able to offer you the most competitive price.
Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it's crucial to research the most important options prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which type of key is compatible with it and whether it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.
Some newer vehicles come with a transponder password system. These are a bit more complicated as they require a specific key tool to program them. However they are also more secure since they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that if your key was duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.
Whatever type of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital that you never try to gain entry into your car yourself. This could raise red flags with insurance companies and will cause many mechanics to refuse to help in the event of indications that your car has been tampered with or forced open. This can make it very difficult to obtain an exchange, so make sure to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
A key that has been laser-cut is much harder to take or lose than a metal key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edges of the blade. Instead there's a groove which cuts to a specific depth up the middle of the key's face. When looking at auto car key replacement from above, it is easy to identify whether it's a fake or not. They are easy to spot and you won't be locked out if you have your key lost while doing errands or working.
If your key is a laser-cut one, you'll need to contact locksmiths that have equipment for making these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store isn't likely to create a laser-cut replacement key, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.
A locksmith will use an apparatus that looks like a standard drill in order to cut the metal of the key. This will cut the entire surface to the desired length. The key's unique code will be found from the VIN, and the key will be cut to match the specifications of your vehicle.
Laser-cut keys are different from a traditional transponder keys since they do not have electronic components or chips which can be altered. They have to be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive since they require a full reconstruction of the key.
Keep at least one spare car key in your car just in case. So you'll be able call the locksmith and cut and program the key for you so that you can gain access to your vehicle again without having to pay to get it towed back at the dealership.
Fobs
If you do not own a classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs which allow you to unlock and start the vehicle without the need for a key. These keys have special computer chips that need to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming, but it's best to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the tools needed.
The cost of replacing your car key fob could be as high as $500 depending on whether it is smart key or remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key that you may want to have in case your fob is lost or stolen.
The loss of your car key was once a source of frustration. It's now a major problem. The reason is that modern cars have made the keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now take them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in technology for car keys have made it harder for thieves.
The new keys come in different dimensions and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that has the transponder and mechanical key inside the same fob. This "smart key" features an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob, similar to a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or hidden in a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and could require the assistance of a dealer to replace.
If you have a spare fob that is in your vehicle and could be duplicated, think about trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a firm like Amazon or an independent locksmith and key company that offers programming for many automobiles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at less than what a dealership will charge, costing as little as $200 or more. Be sure to purchase the fob and key that has the identical model, year, and make as your original to ensure that it is compatible with your vehicle.