How Much Do
Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.
Before you lose your key It is a good idea to have a spare. We have put together a guide on the cost to replace a car key.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge deal. You could purchase a spare and simply use it in the ignition. However, modern cars are much more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace the key that was lost.
Employing an auto locksmith is the cheapest option. They'll usually be able to copy a basic metal key and do so at a cost of $50 or less. However, this kind of key doesn't come with a chip and will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.
This is because modern automobile keys are equipped with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only be done by a professional that knows what they are doing, like a local
locksmith car key replacement cost or a car dealer professional in service.
The cost of having an electronic key copied is fairly low however, the programming of the chip in modern cars will typically run you more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to make sure you always have a backup key and keep it somewhere secure.
There are five different kinds of car keys, so it's important to know which one you have before seeking help to replace it. A more traditional, older car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your car. They're not as common, but you should be able find them at your local hardware store for about $10.
The next type of car key is a transponder key that has an embedded security chip that transmits an electronic signal to the car's computer system to unlock the doors and allow the engine to start. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be done with specialized tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith car dealer. The cost for this can be as high as $500 or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys have a microchip inside of the key to connect with your car. When the key is placed in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it sends a code to signal your car to begin. This feature is beneficial as it wards off theft. However, it makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar requires both the right key and the transmitter in order to turn on your car and then drive off with it.
A transponder key is just a bit more than a regular key, however, it's because it must be programmed. Most locksmiths will be capable of programming keys that have transponders, but it is recommended to ask your dealership if they can do so as well. This is because they typically have the most experience with these types of keys and could be able to give you an affordable price.
Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it's crucial to research the most important options prior to buying your next car. You will be able to figure out which type of key will work with it, and whether or not it requires an unlocking device via a remote.
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 utilize rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key is cloned, it will not work with your car.
It is important to not attempt to break into your
car key replacement service near me on your own, no matter the type of key. This can raise red flags with insurance companies and could make mechanics reluctant to help you out particularly if they notice indications that your
car key replacement cost has been tampered with or forced to open. It is very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
You'll find a laser-cut key is much harder to lose or steal than a key made of metal. These keys have no notches cut along the edges of the blade. Instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a certain depth across the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from above, it is easy to determine whether it's fake or not. The fact that they're easy to recognize also means that you're not at risk of being locked out in the event that you happen to misplace your keys while at work or running around.
If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment for these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store isn't likely to create a laser-cut replacement key, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this kind of key fob.
A locksmith uses a machine that looks very like a regular drill to mill the key's metal, which will cut off the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code will then be retrieved from the VIN and the key will then be cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.
Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys don't have any electronic components or chips inside that can be replaced, which means that they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a brand
new car key replacement key. This is why laser-cut keys are so expensive, as they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.
Keep at least one spare
car key replacement cost key in your possession just in the event of. You can then call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can get back into your vehicle without having to pay for it to be towed back to the dealer.
Fobs
Unless you own an old classic car, chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that allow you to unlock and start the car without a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to function with the vehicle you own. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming but it is generally recommended to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and have all the necessary tools.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob can be as high as $500 depending on whether it's an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. That's not even including the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.
Losing your car key used to be an inconvenience. Now, it's a huge problem. That's because modern cars have made keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now steal keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal them.
These new keys come in different shapes and sizes however the most expensive is one that comes with a transponder and a mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart key" has a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or tucked inside a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the help of a dealer to replace.
If you have an additional fob that works with your vehicle and that can be cloned to work in a different vehicle, you may think about purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a company such as Amazon or a key and lock specialist who offers programming for many different vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge and save yourself as much as $200 or more. Just make sure the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, model and model as your original so it can be coded to work with your car.