How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
Losing your car keys is never a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the roads.
It is a good plan to purchase a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. To make this easier, we have created a guide on the cost of replacement car keys. cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge issue. You could buy a spare key, and use it to turn on the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and it's much more expensive to replace keys lost.
The cheapest way to do this is to hire an auto locksmith. They'll usually be capable of copying a basic metal key and do so at a cost of $50 or less. This kind of key doesn't have chip and will not be able unlock doors or start an engine.
This is due to the fact that modern car keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed to work properly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they're doing, like a local locksmith or even an expert from a dealership's service department.
The cost of a mechanical key is relatively affordable, however the programming chip that is used in a modern car will usually cost you more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it in a safe place.
There are five distinct kinds of car keys, therefore it is important to identify the type you have before seeking help to replace it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged steel lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your car. They're not as common however, you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for about $10.
The next type is the transponder car key. It has embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key, and can only be copied with special tools that only a locksmith or a dealer in the car industry has access to. It could cost you $500 or more based on your car's make and model.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize a microchip inside of the key to connect with your car. When the key is inserted into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it transmits a code to signal your car to begin. This is an excellent feature to have because it helps to prevent theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car as a thief would need both the key and transmitter to turn it off and drive off with it.
Transponder keys cost just a bit more than a regular key but that's only because it has to be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be capable of programming the transponder key, however it is recommended to ask your dealership whether they are able to do this as well. They are the best option because they have the most knowledge of programming these keys, and they can provide you with a better price.
A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems. It is essential to conduct your research prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able find out which kind of key works with it and whether it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.
Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder system. These are more complicated because they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, since 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 important to not attempt to break into your car on your own, no matter the type of key. This can be a red flag to insurance companies and could cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help in the event of signs that the vehicle has been altered or forced to open. It will be very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so make sure you contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much more difficult to take or lose than a metal key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove that's cut to a particular depth on the face of the key. When looking at the key from above, it is easy to determine if it's a fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to recognize also means that you're less likely to risk getting locked out if you happen to misplace your keys while working or doing around.
If your key is a laser-cut one then you'll have to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment for these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit is unlikely to be able make you an alternative key that is laser-cut, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.
Locksmiths use an instrument that resembles a standard drill in order to cut the key's metal. This will reduce the entire surface to the desired length. The key's unique code can be extracted from the VIN and the key will then be cut according to the specifications of your car.
Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not contain any electronics or chips inside them that could be replaced, which means they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a new key. This is why laser-cut keys can be expensive, as they require a total rebuild of the entire key.
Have at least one spare car key in your car just in the event of. Then, you can call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can be back in your car without having to pay for it to be tow back to the dealer.
key replacements for cars
Unless you own an old classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that allow you to open and start the car without a key. These keys have special computer chips that must be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming, but it is generally better to let your dealer handle it. They have the necessary tools and are familiar with the specific vehicle you have, which can ensure it's done correctly.
The cost of getting your car's key fob changed can cost as high as $500, depending on the kind of key you use and if it's remote-controlled or smart. This doesn't include the cost of a mechanical backup key you may want in case your fob gets lost or stolen.
It used to be that losing your car key was an inconvenience, but now it's a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys that easy to use and strong that thieves are able to steal keys. The advances in car key technologies have made it more difficult for thieves.
These new keys come in various dimensions and shapes however the most expensive one is one that includes the transponder and mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart key" comes with a spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob, like the switchblade, making it less likely to get lost or get tucked away in pockets like a coat. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and can be cloned to work with another vehicle, you may be interested in purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a business like Amazon or a key and lock specialist who can program various vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for much less than a dealership charges and save yourself up to $200 or more. Be sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as the original to ensure it is programmed to work with your car.