How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of your car keys is not a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads.

It is a good plan to order an extra key before you lose yours. To make this more convenient, we have created a guide on the cost of replacement car keys. cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge issue. You could buy an extra key and then use it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it's more costly to replace keys that have been lost.

An auto locksmith can be the cheapest alternative. They will usually be able to copy a basic metal key for about $50 or less. However, this type of key isn't equipped with chips and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is due to the fact that modern car keys are equipped with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed in order to work correctly. This can only be done by a professional who understands what they're doing, for instance an auto locksmith in your area or an auto dealership service professional.

The cost of replacement car keys of a mechanical key is relatively low, but the programming chip used in a modern car will usually cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that you have a backup key, and that you keep it in a safe place.

It is important to determine the type of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. A more traditional, older car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and turned to turn on your car. These keys aren't as common however you should be able find them at your local hardware store for around $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 unlock the doors and begin the engine. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be done with special tools that are accessible to a locksmith or dealer of cars keys replacement. It can cost as high as $500 or more, depending on the make and model.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their vehicle. They incorporate a microchip in the key. When the key is put in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it sends a code to signal your car to begin. This is a great feature as it wards off theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car, since a burglar would require both the key and transmitter to turn it on before they could drive off with it.

A transponder key is just a bit more than a regular key however, it's because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by many locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your dealer about whether they are able to do it. They are the best choice because they have the most experience in programming these keys and can provide you with a better price.

A lot of automakers have their own unique anti-theft mechanisms in place. It is important to do your research prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able find out which type of key works with it, and whether or not it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.

Some newer vehicles come with transponder password systems. These are more complex as they require special tools to program them. However, they are more secure because they employ rolling code encryption to change the password each time they're used. This means that even if your key is cloned, it will not work with your vehicle.

Regardless of what type of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital to never attempt to break into your own car yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies. Many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they observe indications that your car was opened or tampered with. It will be very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

You'll find a laser-cut key is much harder to take or lose than a metal key. Keys 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 set depth up the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to tell the difference between authentic and fake keys when you look at it from the top. They are easy to recognize and will not get locked out of your home if your key gets lost while working or running errands.

If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call an locksmith who has equipment to make these types of replacements. In the majority of cases your local hardware store will not be able to make an original laser-cut key since they don't have the equipment required to cut and program these types of keys.

A locksmith will employ an apparatus that looks like an ordinary drill to cut the metal of the key. This will cut all the surface to the desired length. The unique key's code is then extracted from the VIN and the key is cut to your vehicle's specifications.

Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not contain any chips or electronics inside that can be replaced, so they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive because they require a complete rebuild of the key.

It's an excellent idea to have at least one spare key available in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. This way, you'll be able to call the locksmith and have it cut and programmed for you, so that you gain access to your vehicle without needing to pay to have it tow-back at the dealership.

Fobs

You might not have an old-fashioned car however, Cost of Replacement Car Keys your car likely has one of the most modern high-tech fobs that can unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming, but it is generally best to have your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are well-versed in your particular car and can ensure that it's done correctly.

The cost of replacing your car's key fob could be as high as $500, depending on whether it is smart key or remote-controlled key. This does not include the cost of a mechanical backup key you may need in the event your fob is lost or stolen.

It used to be that losing your car key was an inconvenience however, it's now an actual issue. This is because modern vehicles have made keys so convenient and capable that thieves are now able to steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in various shapes and sizes however the most expensive is one that has the transponder and mechanical key inside the same fob. This "smart key" has an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds into the fob, similar to a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or get tucked away in a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the assistance of a dealership to replace.

If you have a spare fob that can be used in your vehicle and could be duplicated, think about trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business such as Amazon or a third-party key and lock specialist which offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob for a much lower cost than the price a dealership will charge, saving up to $200 or more. Just make sure the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, model and model as the original so that it can be programmed to work with your vehicle.