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How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing keys to your car is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the roads.
It is a good idea to buy an extra key before you lose yours. To make it easier we've created a guide on the cost of replacement car keys. cost.
Mechanical Keys
Not too long ago, losing or losing the car key was not a big deal. You could just buy a spare key, and use it to turn on the ignition. However, today's cars are much more advanced in technology and it is more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.
The cheapest way to do this is to employ an auto locksmith. They usually can duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. However, this type of key doesn't have an electronic chip, and therefore won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
This is due to the fact that modern car keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only by done by a professional who knows what they are doing, such as a local locksmith or a car dealer professional in service.
The cost to have an electronic key copied is relatively cheap, but the programming of the chip in modern cars will typically run you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is by making sure you have a backup key and that you keep it somewhere secure.
It's crucial to know the kind of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged steel lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. They're not as common however, you can find them at your local home improvement store for $10.
The second type of car key is the transponder with an embedded security chip that sends an alert to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be duplicated using specific tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith dealer in the car. This can cost up to $500 or more, depending on your car's make and model.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize an embedded microchip in the key to connect with your car. When the key is placed close to your vehicle, or inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is a great feature because 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 drive off with it.
A transponder key costs slightly more than a regular one, however, it's because it must be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be competent to program keys that have transponders, but it is recommended to ask your car dealership if they can do so as well. This is because they typically have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys and could be able to give you a more competitive price.
A lot of automakers have their own distinct anti-theft mechanisms in place. This is why it's crucial to research the most important options prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which type of key is compatible with it and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
replacement key car with more modern technology come with a transponder password system. These are more complex as they require a specific key tool to program them. However replacements car key are also more secure because they employ rolling code encryption to change 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 have, it is crucial to never attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself. This can be a red flag to insurance companies and make mechanics reluctant to assist you particularly if they notice signs that the vehicle has been damaged or forced to open. It will be very difficult to obtain a new key, so you should contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a vehicle with a laser-cut key, you'll notice that it's much harder to lose or be stolen than a traditional key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along the edge. Instead, they have a groove that is cut to a particular depth in the middle of the face of the key. This makes it easy to differentiate between authentic and fake keys when you look at it from above. The fact that they're so easy to identify also means that you can avoid being locked out if you misplace your key while you're working or running for errands.
If your key is a laser-cut one, you'll need to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment for these kinds of replacements. In most cases the hardware store you visit won't be able make you an original laser-cut key since they don't have the machinery required to cut and program these types of keys.
A locksmith will employ a machine that looks very like a regular drill to mill the metal of the key, which will be able to cut the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The key's unique code will be found from the VIN and the key will be cut according to your vehicle's specifications.
Laser-cut keys differ from normal transponder keys because they do not contain any electronic chips or electronics that can be replaced. They have to be destroyed and replaced by a new one. Laser-cut keys are expensive because they require a full rebuild of the key.
It's always an excellent idea to have at least one spare key available in case you happen to lose your car key. You can then contact a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed, so you can be back in your vehicle without having to pay for it to be tow back to the dealer.
Fobs
There's a chance that you don't have an old classic car, but your car probably utilizes the latest high-tech fobs to open and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. There are locksmiths who can perform this reprogramming on your behalf, though it's usually recommended to let your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and have all the necessary tools.
Getting your car key fob replaced can cost as much as $500, depending on the type of key you use and if it's a smart or remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.
Losing your car key was once a hassle. Now, it's a huge problem. That's because modern cars have made keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in car key technologies have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, but the one that has both transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart key" comes with an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob like the switchblade, making it less likely to be lost or tucked inside a coat pocket. These are usually more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have a spare fob that is in your vehicle and could be copied, you might want to try to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or an independent locksmith and key specialist that can program your vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges which could save you around $200 or more. Be sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, make and model as the original to ensure it is programmed to work with your vehicle.