How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
It's never a good feeling to lose your car keys. 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 compiled a guide on the price to replace keys for cars.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big deal. You could just buy a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. Today, 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 are usually capable of copying a standard 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.
This is because modern automobile keys are equipped with transponders or chips that need to be programmed to work properly. 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 programming the chips in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that you have a backup key, and that you keep it somewhere secure.
There are five distinct types of car keys, so it's crucial to know the type you have before receiving assistance in replacing it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your car. These aren't common anymore however you should be able find them at your local hardware store for about $10.
The next kind of car key is a transponder key, which has an embedded security chip that sends a signal to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and enable the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a standard mechanical key, and it can only be copied with special tools that only a locksmith or dealer in the car industry has access to. It could cost you $500 or more, depending on your car's make and model.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their vehicle. They are equipped with a microchip in the key. When the key is placed in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This feature is beneficial as it wards off theft. But, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult since a thief will need both the correct key and the transmitter to start your car and then drive off with it.
A transponder key costs a little bit more than a regular key however, this is because it has to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be able to program keys that have transponders, but it is recommended to ask your dealership if they can do so also. This is because they typically have the most experience with these types of keys and could be able to give you a more competitive price.
Many automakers have their own unique anti-theft systems in place. This is why it's essential to research all the key options prior to purchasing your next car. You will be able to figure out what type of key works with it and whether it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.
Some newer vehicles come with transponder password systems. These are more complex as they require specialized 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 has been cloned, it will not work with your car.
No matter what kind of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital that you do not attempt to open the door of your vehicle yourself. This can cause alarms to insurance companies and could cause many mechanics to refuse to help, especially if they see indications that your vehicle has been altered or forced to open. This could make it difficult to obtain replacement parts, so be sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you have a vehicle with a laser-cut key, you'll find that it's much harder to lose or get stolen than a conventional metal key. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edges of the blade. Instead there's a groove that cuts to a certain depth across the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to tell the difference between authentic and fake keys when looking at it from above. The fact that they're easy to identify also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out in the event that you happen to misplace your keys while working or running errands.
If you have a laser-cut key, then you'll need to call a locksmith professional who has the right equipment to create these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store is unlikely to be able create the replacement key laser-cut since they do not have the tools to cut and program this kind of key fob.
A locksmith will use an apparatus that looks like a standard drill in order to mill the key's metal. This will cut the entire surface until it is the desired length. The unique key's code is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is cut to your vehicle's specifications.
In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys do not have any electronic components or chips inside that can be replaced, so they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. This is why laser-cut keys are so expensive, as they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.
Have at least one spare car key in your possession just in case of. You can then call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so you can reenter your car without having to pay for it to be towed back to the dealer.
Fobs
If you don't own a classic car, chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that allow you to open and start your car without having a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming, however it's better to have your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are familiar with the specific vehicle you have to ensure that the reprogramming is done correctly.
The cost of replacing your car key fob can 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 an electronic backup key that you may want in case the fob goes missing or is stolen.
auto key replacement was once the case that losing your car keys was a hassle, but now it's a real problem. 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, advancements in car key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal them.
The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, however the one that has both transponder and a mechanical key is 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 get lost or hidden in the pocket of a coat. They are generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be copied to work with another vehicle, you might be interested in purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a business like Amazon or a key and lock specialist who can program a variety of vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at a much lower cost than what a dealer will charge, which could save you $200 or more. Be sure that 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 vehicle.