How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing your car keys is never a pleasant experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road quickly by providing Emergency Roadside Service.
It is a good idea to purchase a spare key before you lose yours. To make it easier we've created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big issue. You could buy an extra key and then use it in the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it's much more expensive to replace keys lost.
An auto locksmith can be the most affordable option. They usually can duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. However, this kind of key doesn't have a chip and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
This is because modern automobile keys come with transponders or chips that have to be programmed in order to work correctly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, for instance the local locksmith or an expert from a dealership's service department.
The cost to have an electronic key copied is relatively low however, the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is by making sure you always have a backup key and keep it somewhere secure.
There are five kinds of car keys, therefore it is important to identify which one you have before getting help with replacing it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged steel lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your car. These keys aren't as common however you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for about $10.
The next type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the car's computers to open the doors and start the engine. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be duplicated using specialized tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith or dealer in the car. This can cost up to $500 or more based on your 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 transmits an encoded code that allows your car to start. This feature is great as it wards off theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car as a thief would need both the key and the transmitter to turn it on before they could drive off with it.
A transponder key is slightly more than a regular key however, it's because it needs to be programmed. Locksmiths are generally competent to program the transponder key, however it is best to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to do this as well. This is because they usually have the most experience with these kinds of keys, and may be able to provide you with a more competitive price.
Many automakers have their own distinct anti-theft mechanisms in place. It is important to do your research before purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able find out which kind of key it is compatible with and whether it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.
Some of the latest cars are equipped with a password transponder. These are more complex as they require special tools to program them. However, they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that even if the key is copied, it will not work with your car.
No matter what kind of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital that you do not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and many mechanics will not assist you if they see indications that your car was opened or tampered with. This will make it extremely difficult to obtain an exchange, so make sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much more difficult to take or lose than a traditional key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edges of the blade. Instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a certain depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to differentiate between genuine and fake keys when you look at it from above. They are easy to recognize and will not get locked out of your home if your key gets 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. Most of the time, your local hardware store won't be able make a new laser-cut key because they don't have the machinery required to cut and program these kinds of keys.
A locksmith uses a machine that looks very like a regular drill to cut the metal of the key, which will cut off the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then extracted from the VIN and the key is cut to the specifications of your vehicle.
Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not have any electronics or chips inside that can be replaced, which means that they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a new key. This is the reason why laser-cut keys can be expensive, since they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.
It's a good idea to keep at least one spare key available in case you happen to lose your car key. So, you'll be able to contact the locksmith to have it cut and programmed for you, so that you can gain access to your vehicle again, without having to pay to have it tow-back by the dealership.
Fobs
Unless you own an old classic car, chances are your vehicle uses one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start your vehicle without the need for a key. These keys have special computer chips that must be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. There are locksmiths who can do this reprogramming for you but it's generally best to have your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are familiar with the specific vehicle you have, which can ensure it's done right.
The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced could cost as much as $500, depending on the kind of key you use and whether it's a smart or remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of a mechanical backup key you may need in the event your fob is lost or stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car keys was an inconvenience, but now it's a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern automobiles have made keys so easy to use and strong that thieves are able to take them. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.
auto key replacements are available in different dimensions and shapes, but the most expensive is one that includes a transponder and a mechanical key inside the same fob. The "smart" key comes with an elongated shank that is spring loaded and can fold into the fob in the same way as a switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or tucked into a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the help of a dealership to replace.
If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be copied to work in a different vehicle, you might be interested in purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a key and lock specialist who can program various vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for less than what a dealer charges which could save you up to $200 or more. Make sure you purchase the fob and key that is the same year, model and make as your original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.