How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of keys to your car is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads.
It is a good idea to buy an extra key before you lose yours. We have put together a guide on how much it costs to replace keys for cars keys replacement.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, misplacing or losing a car key replacement online key was no big problem. You could purchase an extra and put it in the ignition. However, modern automobiles are more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace keys that have been lost.
Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They'll usually be able to copy a basic metal key for about $50 or less. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with chips and won't be 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 by done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, for instance a local locksmith or a car dealer professional in service.
The cost of having a mechanical key copied is relatively low, but the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key on hand and store it safely.
There are five different types of car keys available, therefore it is important to identify which one you have prior to getting help with replacing it. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your car. These keys aren't as common however you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for about $10.
The next type of car key is a transponder key with an embedded security chip that sends an alert to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and enable the engine to start. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key, and it can only be copied using specialized tools that only a locksmith or a car dealer has access to. It can cost as high as $500 or more based on the car's model and make.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their vehicle. They use an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is placed in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is a great feature to have since it deters theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car, since a burglar would require both the key and the transmitter to turn it on before they could take off with it.
The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is typically a little more expensive than a standard key, but this is due to the fact that it has to be programmed as well. It is possible to program a key transponder by the majority of locksmiths, however you should always inquire with your car dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best option since they have the most experience in programming these keys and can offer you a better price.
Many automakers have their own distinct anti-theft systems in place. It is important to do your research prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to find out what type of key works with it and if it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.
Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder-based password system. These are more complicated because they require special tools to program them. However they are also more secure as they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they're used. This means that if your key were duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.
No matter what kind of key you've got, it is crucial that you never try to break into your own vehicle yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies and will make mechanics reluctant to help you out, especially if they see evidence that the vehicle has been damaged or opened. This will make it extremely hard to get a replacement car keys cost, so be sure to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
You'll find a laser-cut key is much harder to steal or lose than a metal key. These keys have no notches cut along the edge of the blade - instead there's a groove that cuts to a certain depth up the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to tell the difference between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from above. They are easy to identify and will not get locked out if your key is lost while doing errands or working.
If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact an locksmith who has equipment to make these types of replacements. Your local hardware store is unlikely to be able make you a laser-cut replacement key, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.
A locksmith will use an apparatus that resembles the drill used in standard homes to cut the key's metal. This will reduce the entire surface until it is the desired length. The unique key's code is then extracted from the VIN and the key is then cut according to your vehicle's specifications.
Laser-cut keys are different from a regular transponder key because they do not contain any electronic components or chips which can be altered. They must be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. Laser-cut keys are expensive because they require a full reconstruction of the key.
It's always recommended to keep at least one spare key available in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. That way, you'll be able to call the locksmith to cut it and program it for you so that you can have access to your car without having to pay to have it towed back at the dealership.
Fobs
Unless you own an old 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 a key. These keys have special computer chips that must be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Fortunately, some locksmiths can do this reprogramming for you however it's better to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the tools needed.
The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced can cost as high as $500, based on the kind of key you use and whether it's smart or just remote-controlled. This doesn't include cost of an electronic backup key that you may want in case the fob goes missing or is stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car key was an inconvenience however, it's now a real problem. The reason is that modern cars keys replacement have made the keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in the technology of car key replacement service keys have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in various dimensions and shapes, but the one with transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart" key has an elongated shank that is spring loaded and can fold into the fob in the same way as the switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or tucked in a coat pocket. These are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealer.
If you have a spare fob that works in your vehicle and can be cloned, consider trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a firm such as Amazon or an independent locksmith and key specialist that can program your automobiles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob for a much lower cost than the price a dealership will charge, thereby costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a fob and a key that has the identical model, year, and make as the original to ensure that it can be programmed for your vehicle.