How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing keys to your car is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road in a hurry with Emergency Roadside Service.
It is a good idea to buy a spare key before you lose yours. To make it easier, we have put together a guide to how much replacement car keys cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge deal. You could purchase an extra key and then use it in the ignition. However, today's cars are much more advanced in technology and it's more costly to replace a lost key.
The cheapest way to do this is to hire an auto locksmith. They are usually able to copy a basic metal key for around $50 or less. However, this kind of key doesn't have an electronic chip, and therefore isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
Modern car keys come with transponders or chips which must be programmed properly. This can only by done by a professional that knows what they are doing, like an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional in service.
The cost of having an electronic key copied is relatively cheap, but the programming of the chip in modern cars will typically run you more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it safe.
There are five different types of car keys available, so it's important to know which one you have before seeking help to replace it. A more traditional, older car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and then turned to turn on your car. These keys aren't as common however they are available at your local home improvement store for $10.
The second type of car key is a transponder key that has an embedded security chip that transmits 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 copied using special tools that only a locksmith or car dealer has access to. G28 Car Keys could cost you $500 or more, depending on your car's make and model.
Transponder Keys
Cars with transponder keys use microchips inside the key to connect with your car. When the key is near to your vehicle, or when it is inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that tells your car to begin. This feature is great as it wards off theft. However, it makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar requires both the right key and transmitter in order to start your car and take it away.
Transponder keys cost slightly more than a regular one, but that's only because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by many locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your car dealer if they can do it. They are the best option because they have the most knowledge of programming these keys and can give you a better rate.
A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems. It is important to do your research prior to buying your next car. You should be able to figure out which type of key it is compatible with and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.
Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder system. These are more complex as they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, because they use rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that if your key was cloned it would not work in your car.
Whatever type of key you've got, it is crucial that you never try to break into your own vehicle yourself. This could be a red flag to insurance companies and make mechanics reluctant to help you out, especially if they see signs that the vehicle has been damaged or forced open. It will be very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.
Laser-Cut Keys
It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much harder to lose or steal than a traditional key. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edges of the blade. Instead there's a winding groove which cuts to a specific depth up the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from above it's easy to tell whether it's a fake or not. They are easy to recognize, so you won't get locked out of your home if your key gets lost while you're working or running errands.
If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to talk to an expert locksmith who has the right equipment to make these kinds of replacements. In most cases, your local hardware store isn't able to make you a new laser-cut key because they don't have the tools required to cut and program these kinds of keys.
A locksmith will use a machine that looks very like a standard drill to mill the metal of the key, which will remove the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique key's code is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut according to your vehicle's specifications.
Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not contain any chips or electronics inside of them that can be replaced, which means that they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive since they require a full rebuild of the key.
Keep a spare car key in your possession just in the event of. This way, you'll be able to call the locksmith and have it cut and programmed for you so that you can gain access to your vehicle without needing to pay to have it tow back to the dealership.
Fobs
If you do not own a classic car, chances that your car is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that allow you to open and start your car without a key. These keys have special computer chips that must be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Fortunately, some locksmiths can assist you in this process however it's recommended to let your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are familiar with the specific vehicle you have to ensure that the reprogramming is done right.
The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced could cost as high as $500, based on the type of key you drive and whether it's a smart or remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you may need in the event that your fob gets lost or stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car key was a hassle however, it's now a real problem. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now take them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal them.
The new keys come in different sizes and shapes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that includes a transponder and a mechanical key inside the same fob. This "smart key" comes with an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob like the switchblade, making it less likely to get lost or tucked inside pockets like a coat. These are typically pricier than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.
If you have a spare fob that can be used in your vehicle and could be copied, you might want to try to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a firm such as Amazon or a third-party key and lock specialist which offers programming for a variety of automobiles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob at a much lower cost than what a dealer will charge, thereby costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a key and fob that is the same model, year and make as the original to ensure that it is compatible with your vehicle.