How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.
When you lose your key It is an ideal idea to have a spare. We have compiled a list on the price to replace the car key.
Mechanical Keys
Not long ago, misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big issue. You could buy a spare key, and use it to turn on the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more technologically advanced, and it's much more costly to replace lost keys.
The cheapest method of doing this is to hire an auto locksmith. They will usually be capable of copying a basic metal key and do so for about $50 or less. This type of key doesn't have chip and will not be able unlock doors or start engines.
Modern car keys include transponders or chips which must be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only by done by a professional who knows what they are doing, like a local locksmith or a car dealer professional in service.
The cost of mechanical keys is affordable, however the programming chip in modern cars can cost you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to make sure you always have a backup key and keep it somewhere secure.
There are five different kinds of car keys, therefore it is important to identify which one you have before seeking help to replace it. An older, standard car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your vehicle. These keys aren't as common however, you should be able find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.
The next type is a transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip which sends a signal to the car's computers to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be duplicated using specialized tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith dealer of cars. The cost for this could be as high as $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your car.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize a microchip inside of the key to connect with your car. When the key is put into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it transmits a code to signal your car to start. This is an excellent feature to have as it helps to prevent theft. However, it makes stealing your car much more difficult since a thief requires both the right key and the transmitter in order to turn your car on and take it away.
A transponder key is a little bit more than a regular key, however, this is because it needs to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be competent to program keys that have transponders, but it is recommended to ask your dealership whether they are able to do this also. They are the best option as they have the best expertise in programming these keys and can provide you with a better price.
Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it is important to research the key options prior to buying your next car. You should be able to find out which kind of key works with it and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Some newer cars come equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complicated as they require a specific key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, as they employ rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that if your key were cloned it would not work in your car.
It is important that you don't attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the type of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they notice signs that your car has been forced open or damaged. This will make it extremely hard to get a replacement, so be certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
auto key replacement -Cut Keys
If you own a car with a laser-cut key, you'll notice that it's much harder to lose or steal than a traditional key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edge of the blade - instead, there's a winding groove which cuts to a specific depth across the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to tell the difference between a genuine and fake key when looking at it from the top. They are easy to recognize, so you won't get locked out of your home if your key gets lost while doing errands or working.
If you have a laser-cut key, then you'll need to talk to a professional locksmith who has the right equipment to make these types of replacements. Most of the time the hardware store you visit will not be able to make a new laser-cut key because they don't have the equipment needed to cut and program these types of key fobs.
Locksmiths use an apparatus that resembles the drill used in standard homes to mill the metal of the key. This will cut all the 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 car.
Laser-cut keys differ from normal transponder keys because they do not have electronics or chips which can be altered. They must be destroyed and replaced by a new one. Laser-cut keys are expensive because they require a complete rebuild of the key.
Keep a spare car key in your car just in case. That way you'll be able contact the locksmith to have it cut and programmed for you, so that you gain access to your vehicle again, without having to pay to get it tow-back at the dealership.
Fobs
If you don't own a classic car, the chances are your vehicle uses one of the most advanced high-tech fobs which allow you to unlock and start the car without having a key. These keys come with electronic chips that have to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. There are locksmiths who can perform this reprogramming on your behalf but it's generally recommended to let your dealer handle it. They have the right tools and are familiar with your particular car, which can ensure it's done correctly.
The cost of replacing your car key fob could be as high as $500 depending on whether it is a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This does not include the cost of an electronic backup key that you may want in case your fob gets lost or stolen.
It used to be that losing your car keys was an inconvenience, but now it's an actual issue. That's because modern cars have made keys so convenient and capable that thieves are now able to steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in car key technologies have made it harder for thieves.
The new keys are available in various shapes and sizes however the most expensive one is one that comes with the transponder and mechanical key inside the same fob. The "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank which folds in the fob to form an e-switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or hidden in a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealer.
If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be copied to work in a different vehicle, you might think about purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a key and lock specialist that offers programming for various vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at less than what a dealership would charge, saving up to $200 or more. Make sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, make and model as your previous so it can be coded to work with your vehicle.