How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road fast by providing Emergency Roadside Service.

When you lose your key, it is an ideal idea to have a spare. We have compiled a guide on how much it costs to replace a car key.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge problem. You could purchase an extra and put it in the ignition. However, today's cars are more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace the key that was lost.

Hiring an auto locksmith is the cheapest option. They are usually able to duplicate a metal key for less than $50. This kind of key does not have a chip, and will not be able unlock doors or start an engine.

Modern car keys include transponders, also known as chips, that must be programmed to work correctly. This can only by done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like the local locksmith or car dealer service professional.

The cost to get an electronic key copied is fairly low however programming the chips in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to make sure you have a backup key and keep it somewhere secure.

There are five distinct types of car keys lost replacement keys, so it's important to know the type you have before seeking help to replace it. An older, standard car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder and then turned to start your car. These keys aren't as common, but you can find them at your local home improvement store for about $10.

The second type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with embedded security microchips that sends a message to the computer in the vehicle to unlock the doors and start the engine. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and is only possible with specific tools, which are only available to a locksmith or dealer in the car. The cost for this can be up to $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your car.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their car. They use an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is near to your car, or inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code which signals your car to start. This feature is beneficial because it deters theft. However, it makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar will need both the correct key and transmitter in order to start your car and take it away.

The cost of a brand new transponder key is typically a little more expensive than a traditional key, but this is due to the fact that it has to be programmed as well. It is possible to program a key transponder by the majority of locksmiths, however it is best to inquire with your dealer if they can do it. They are the best option because they have the most experience in programming these keys, and they can give you a better rate.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. It is essential to conduct your research prior Replacement Car Keys Cost to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which type of key works with it and if it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a password transponder. These are more complicated as they require a special key tool to program them. However, they are more secure because they employ rolling code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your key were duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.

It is crucial that you do not try to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they observe signs that your car has been forced open or tampered with. This will make it extremely hard to get a replacement, so be certain to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car with a laser-cut key, you'll find that it's more difficult to lose or be stolen than a conventional metal key. These keys have no notches cut along the edge of the blade. Instead, there's a winding groove which cuts to a specific depth across the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from the top it's easy to tell whether it's a fake or not. They are easy to spot, so you won't get locked out if your key is lost while you're working or running errands.

If you have an uncut laser key, you will need to contact an expert locksmith who has the right equipment to create these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store is unlikely to be able create an alternative key that is laser-cut, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this kind of key fob.

Locksmiths use an instrument that resembles 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 extracted from the VIN and the key is then cut to the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys differ from regular transponder key because they don't contain electronic chips or electronics which can be altered. They must be destroyed and replaced with a new one. This is why laser-cut keys are so expensive, as they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.

Keep at least one spare car key in your car just in case of. So, you'll be able to contact the locksmith to cut and program the key for you, so that you'll gain access to your vehicle without having to pay to get it tow back to the dealership.

Fobs

You may not have an old classic car however, your car likely uses one of the newest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start the vehicle without 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 assist you in this process but it's generally recommended to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and have all the necessary tools.

The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced can cost as much as $500, based on the type of key you drive and if it's a smart or remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key that you may need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car key was an inconvenience However, now it's a major issue. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now take keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in the technology of car keys have made it more difficult for thieves.

These new keys come in a variety of dimensions and shapes however the most expensive one is one that includes the transponder and mechanical key inside the same fob. This "smart key" has an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or get tucked away in the pocket of a coat. These keys are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have a spare key fob that works in your vehicle and could be cloned, consider trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or an independent locksmith and key company that can program your automobiles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at a much lower cost than what a dealership will charge, thereby costing as little as $200 or more. Be sure to purchase a fob and a key that has the identical model, year, and Replacement Car Keys Cost make as the original to ensure that it is compatible with your vehicle.