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 return to the road.
When you lose your key it is a good idea to have a spare. To make this more convenient, we have put together a guide to the cost of replacement car Key replacement by vin keys. cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn’t too long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge issue. You could purchase an extra key and then use it in the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more technologically advanced and it is much more costly to replace lost keys.
An auto locksmith can be the most affordable option. They can usually copy a metal key for less than $50. However, this type of key doesn’t have chips and isn’t able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
Modern car keys come with transponders or chips that must be programmed to work correctly. This can only be done by a professional that knows what they are doing, for instance an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer service professional.
The cost of mechanical keys is low, but the programming chip used in modern cars can cost you more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key and keep it safe.
It is important to determine the type of car keys you own before seeking assistance. An older, standard car key replacement price key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your car. These keys aren’t as common however you should be able find them at your local hardware store for about $10.
The next type is a transponder car keys replacement cost key. This key has embedded security microchips that sends a message to the computer in the vehicle to unlock the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be duplicated using specialized tools that are accessible to a locksmith or dealer of cars. The cost for this can be up to $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your car.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys have microchips inside the key to communicate with your car. When the key is inserted in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it transmits an encoded code that allows your car to begin. This feature is beneficial as it wards off theft. But, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult because a burglar will require both the correct key and the transmitter to turn your car on and take it away.
Transponder keys cost a little bit more than a regular one, however, this is because it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with most locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your dealer about whether they are able to do it. This is because they typically have the most experience with these kinds of keys and could be able to provide you with an affordable price.
Many automotive manufacturers have their own distinct anti-theft systems in place. It is important to do your research prior to buying your next vehicle. You will be able to figure out what type of key will work with it and whether it requires a 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, as they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that if your keys were cloned it would not work in your car.
It is essential to not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the type of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will refuse to assist you if they see signs that your vehicle has been forced open or tampered with. 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 that has a laser cut key, you’ll find that it’s more difficult to lose or get stolen than a conventional metal key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along the edge. Instead, they have a groove cut to a particular depth along the face of the key. This makes it easy to differentiate between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from the top. The fact that they’re easy to spot also means that you’re less likely to risk being locked out if you misplace your keys while at work or running for errands.
If your key is laser-cut you’ll need to call an locksmith who has equipment to make these types of replacements. Your local hardware store is unlikely to be able create the replacement key laser-cut as they lack the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.
A locksmith will use a machine that appears like a standard drill to cut the metal of the key. This will remove the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The key’s unique code will be retrieved from the VIN and the key will be cut according to your vehicle’s specifications.
Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not have any electronics or chips inside them that could be replaced, which means they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are expensive, since they require a total rebuild of the entire key.
It’s an excellent idea to have at least one spare key on hand in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. So you’ll be able call the locksmith to cut it and program it for you, so that you have access to your car again without needing to pay to have it towed back to the dealership.
Fobs
You may not own an old classic vehicle however, your car likely utilizes the latest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that need to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Fortunately, some locksmiths can do this reprogramming for you, though it’s usually best to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the necessary tools.
The cost of having your car’s key fob changed can cost up to $500, based on the kind of key you use and whether it’s remote-controlled or smart. This doesn’t include the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that your fob gets lost key replacement car or stolen.
It was once the case that losing your car key was a pain, but now it’s an actual issue. This is because modern vehicles have made keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now take keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, but the one that comes with transponder and a mechanical key is most expensive. The “smart” key features a spring-loaded shank which folds into the fob like the switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or put in a coat pocket. They’re generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and could require the assistance of a dealership to replace.
If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and can be cloned to work with another vehicle, you may think about purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a company such as Amazon or a specialist in key and lock that offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for much cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge, saving yourself around $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a fob and a key that’s the identical model, year, and make as your original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.