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 quickly with Emergency Roadside Service.
Before you lose your key, it is recommended to make a backup. We have put together a guide on the price to replace a car key.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big issue. You could purchase a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it's more expensive to replace lost keys.
Employing an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They are usually able to duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. This type of key doesn't have chip and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start an engine.
This is because modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that have to be programmed to work properly. This is only done by a professional who knows what they're doing, such as an auto locksmith in your area or a car dealership service professional.
The cost of having a mechanical key copied is relatively cheap however, the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. It is best to always 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 seeking help to replace it. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your vehicle. These aren't common anymore, but you should be able find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.
The next type is the transponder car key. This key has an embedded security microchip which sends a signal to the computer in the vehicle to open the doors and begin the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key, and is only possible to copy it using specialized tools that only a locksmith or a car dealer has access to. This can cost up to $500 or more depending on the model and make.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their car. They are equipped with an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is inserted in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it sends an encoded code that allows your car to start. This feature is great as it wards off theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car because a burglar will need both the key and the transmitter to turn it on and take off with it.
A transponder key is slightly more than a regular one, however, it's because it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with many locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your dealer if they can do it. This is because they typically have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys and could be able to give you the most competitive price.
A lot of automakers have their own distinct anti-theft mechanisms in place. This is why it is crucial to research the most important options prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able find out which kind of key will work with it and if it requires an unlocking device via a remote.
Certain newer cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complex as they require a specific key tool to program them. However they are more secure because they employ rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that if your key was copied, it will not work in your car.
It is essential that you do not try to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics won't help you if they see signs that your vehicle has been opened or tampered with. This can make it very hard to get an exchange, so make certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you own a car that has a laser cut key, you'll find that it's more difficult to lose or be stolen than a conventional metal key. These keys do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they have a groove that is cut to a certain depth along the face of the key. This makes it easy to distinguish between authentic and fake keys when looking at it from above. They are easy to identify, so you won't get locked out of your home if your key gets lost while you're working or running errands.
If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact locksmiths that have equipment for these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases the hardware store you visit isn't able to make you a new laser-cut key because they don't have the tools needed to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.
A locksmith will employ a machine that appears similar to a standard drill to mill the metal of the key. This will be able to cut 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 to your vehicle's specifications.
Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not contain any chips or electronics inside them that could be replaced, so they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a new key. This is why laser-cut keys can be expensive, as they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.
It's always an excellent idea to have at least one spare key on hand in the event that you accidentally lose your car key. Then, you can call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that you can reenter your car without having to pay for it to be tow by the dealer.
Fobs
If you do not own a classic car, the 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 contain special computer chips which need to be programmed in order to function with the vehicle you own. There are locksmiths who can assist you in this process but it's generally best to have your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the necessary tools.
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 purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you may need in the event that your fob gets lost or stolen.
The loss of your car keys used to be an inconvenience. Now, it's a huge issue. 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 car key technologies have made it harder for thieves.
The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the one that comes with transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart" key comes with a spring-loaded shank which can fold into the fob in the same way as an e-switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or tucked in a pocket of a coat. Read Homepage are usually more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have a spare fob that can be used in your vehicle and can be cloned, consider trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or an independent locksmith and key specialist that can program your automobiles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for much cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge, saving yourself up to $200 or more. Just make sure Read Homepage and key you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as your previous so that it can be programmed to work with your vehicle.