How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road fast with Emergency Roadside Service.
It is a good plan to buy an extra key before you lose yours. To make this more convenient, we have put together a guide to how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not long ago, misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big issue. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more technologically advanced and it's much more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.
Employing auto key replacement G28 is the most affordable option. They usually can duplicate a metal key for less than $50. This kind of key isn't equipped with a chip, and will not be able unlock doors or start engines.
Modern car keys come with transponders, also known as chips, that need to be programmed to work properly. This is only done by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, like the local locksmith or an auto dealership service professional.
The cost to get an electronic key copied is relatively low however, the programming of the chip in modern cars will usually cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is by making sure you have a backup key and keep it in a safe place.
There are five distinct types of car keys available, therefore it is important to identify the type you have before receiving assistance in replacing it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. These aren't common anymore, but you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for around $10.
The next type of car key is the transponder that has an embedded security chip that sends an alert to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and enable the engine to start. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be done with specialized tools that are only accessible to a locksmith car dealer. The cost for this can be up to $500 or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their car. They use a microchip in the key. When the key is inserted in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it transmits a code to signal your car to begin. This is a great feature to have as it helps to prevent theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult as a burglar requires both the right key and the transmitter in order to start your car and drive away with it.
A transponder key is slightly more than a regular key, however, this is because it needs to be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be competent to program the transponder key, however it is always best to ask your car dealership if they can do so as well. This is because they usually have the most experience with these kinds of keys, and may be able to offer you the most competitive price.
Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it is crucial to research the most important options prior to buying your next car. You should be able find out which kind of key is compatible with it and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder system. These are more complex as they require special tools 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 even if your key is cloned, it will not work with your car.
No matter what kind of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital to never attempt to open the door of your car yourself. This can be a red flag to insurance companies and could cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help, especially if they see signs that the car has been tampered with or forced to open. It can be extremely difficult to get a new key, so make sure you contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a vehicle that has a laser cut key, you'll see that it's more difficult to lose or steal than a traditional key made of metal. These keys do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove that's cut to a certain depth on the key's face. When you look at the key from the top it's easy to tell whether it's fake or not. They are easy to spot and will not get locked out if your key is lost while you're working or running errands.
If your key is laser-cut, you'll need to contact an locksmith who has equipment for making these kinds of replacements. Most of the time your local hardware store won't be able create a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the machinery required to cut and program these kinds of keys.
Locksmiths use an instrument that resembles a standard drill in order to cut the metal of the key. This will reduce the entire surface to the desired length. The key's unique code will then be retrieved from the VIN, and the key will be cut to meet your vehicle's specifications.
Laser-cut keys differ from normal transponder keys because they do not contain any electronics or chips that can be changed. They must be destroyed and replaced by a new one. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive because they require a full rebuild of the key.
It's a good idea to keep at least one spare key in your possession in the event that you accidentally lose your car key. Then, you can call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so you can get back into your vehicle without having to pay for it to be tow back to the dealer.
Fobs
You may not have an old classic car but your vehicle probably utilizes the latest high-tech fobs to open and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys come with computer chips that must be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Fortunately, some locksmiths can perform this reprogramming on your behalf 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 replacing your car key fob could be as high as $500 depending on whether it's an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. This does not include the cost of a mechanical backup key you may need in the event the fob goes missing or is stolen.
It used to be that losing your car keys was a pain, but now it's an actual issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves are able to take keys. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal them.
The new keys are available in various dimensions and shapes, but the one that has both transponder and a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart key" has an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds down into the fob, similar to an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to get lost or hidden in pockets like a coat. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and could require the assistance of a dealer to replace.
If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and that can be duplicated to work in a different vehicle, you might want to consider ordering a replacement aftermarket from a company such as Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who offers programming for various vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at an affordable price compared to what a dealership will charge, thereby costing as little as $200 or more. Be sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as the original so that it can be programmed to work with your car.
