5 Replacement Car Keys Cost Projects For Every Budget
How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of keys to your car is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the road.
When you lose your key it is a good idea to make a backup. We have put together a guide on the price to replace the car key.
Mechanical Keys
Not long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no 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 costly to replace lost keys.
The most affordable method to accomplish this is to hire an auto locksmith. They will usually be capable of copying a standard metal key and do so for about $50 or less. This kind of key doesn't have a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start engines.
Modern car keys have transponders, or chips, that need to be programmed properly. This can only be done by a professional that knows what they are doing, like an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.
The cost of mechanical keys is affordable, however the programming chip used in the latest cars will typically cost you more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key on hand and store it safely.
There are five distinct types of car keys available, so it's important to know which one you have prior to seeking help to replace it. A classic, old-fashioned car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your vehicle. They're not as common however they are available at your local home improvement store for $10.
The next type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the computer in the vehicle to open the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and is only possible with special tools that are only accessible to a locksmith car dealer. This can cost up to $500 or more, depending on your car's model and make.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize an embedded microchip in the key to communicate with your car. When the key is placed in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it transmits an encoded code that allows your car to start. This feature is beneficial as it wards off 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 off and drive off with it.
A transponder key costs just a bit more than a regular one, but that's only because it has to be programmed. Locksmiths are generally able to program the transponder key, however it is best to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to do this as well. They are the best option as they have the best knowledge of programming these keys and can give you a better rate.
A lot of automakers have their own distinct anti-theft systems in place. It is important to do your research prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able to figure out which kind of key is compatible with it and whether it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.
Certain newer cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are a bit more complicated as they require a special key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, as they employ rolling-code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that if your key were cloned it would not work in your car.
It is essential that you do not try to break into your car on your own, no matter the type of key. This can raise red flags with insurance companies and could cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help 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 make sure you contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.
Laser-Cut Keys
If you own a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's much harder to lose or get stolen than a conventional metal key. automotive car key replacement with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edges of the blade. Instead there's a winding groove that cuts to a certain depth up the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to differentiate between authentic and fake keys when you look at it from the top. The fact that they're easy to identify also means that you can avoid being locked out if you misplace your key while you're working or running around.
If you own an uncut laser key, you'll need to call an expert locksmith who has the right equipment to create these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases your local hardware store will not be able to create a new laser-cut key because they don't have the equipment required to cut and program these kinds of keys.
A locksmith will employ an apparatus that looks like an ordinary drill to mill the metal of the key. This will cut all the surface to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut to the specifications of your vehicle.
In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys don't have any electronic components or chips inside them that could be replaced, so they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys are expensive since they require a complete rebuild of the key.
It's a good idea to keep at least one spare key available in the event that you accidentally lose your car key. That way, you'll be able to call the locksmith and cut and program the key for you so that you gain access to your vehicle again, without needing to pay to have it tow-back at the dealership.
Fobs
You might not have an old-fashioned car however, your car likely utilizes the latest high-tech fobs to open and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that need to be programmed to work with the car you own. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming but it's recommended to let your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are knowledgeable about your particular car, which can ensure it's done right.
The cost of replacing your car's key fob could be as high as $500 depending on whether it's smart key or remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key that you may wish to have in the event your fob is lost or stolen.
It used to be that losing your car key was a hassle, but now it's a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern automobiles have made keys that easy to use and strong that thieves are able to steal keys. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal them.
The new keys are available in various dimensions and shapes, but the one that has both transponder and mechanical keys is the most expensive. The "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank which can fold into the fob in the same way as an e-switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or hidden in a pocket of a coat. They're generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.
If you have a spare key fob that works in your car and can be cloned, consider trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a firm such as Amazon or an independent key and lock specialist that can program your vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for much less than a dealership charges which could save you as much as $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a key and fob that's the same year, model and make as the original to ensure that it is compatible with your vehicle.