How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of keys to your car is not a pleasant experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road in a hurry by providing Emergency Roadside Service.

When you lose your key it is an ideal idea to have a spare. To make this more convenient we've put together a guide to the cost of replacement car keys. cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't too long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big issue. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. However, modern cars are much more advanced in technology and it's more costly to replace a lost key.

Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable alternative. They can usually copy a key made of metal for less than $50. This kind of key isn't equipped with chip and will not be able unlock doors or start an engine.

Modern car keys come with transponders, also known as chips, that need to be programmed to work properly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who knows what they're doing, like an auto locksmith in your area or an auto dealership service professional.

The cost of having an electronic key copied is fairly low, but the programming of the chip in modern cars will typically cost more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key on hand and store it safely.

There are five different kinds of cheap car key replacement keys, therefore it is important to identify the type you have before getting help with replacing it. An older, standard car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and then turned to turn on your car. They're not as common however you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for $10.

The second type is the transponder car key. It has embedded security microchips which sends a signal to the car's computers to open the doors and start the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate than a standard mechanical key, and it can only be copied using specialized tools that only a locksmith or a dealer in the car industry has access to. The cost for this can be as high as $500 or more, based on the model and make of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize a microchip inside of the key to connect with your car. When the key is put into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is a great feature to have as it discourages theft. However, it also makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar will require both the correct key and the transmitter to turn your car on and drive away with it.

The cost of a brand new transponder keys is typically higher than a conventional key, but only because it must be programmed as well. It is possible to program a transponder key by many locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your car dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best choice because they have the most experience in programming these keys and will provide you with a better price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms in place. This is why it is essential to research all the key options before you purchase your next vehicle. You should be able find out which kind of key it is compatible with and whether it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder. These are more complex as they require a specific key tool to program them. However they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that even if the key is duplicated, it won't work with your vehicle.

It is important that you don't attempt to break into your car by yourself, regardless of the type of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies. Many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they observe signs that your vehicle was opened or altered. It is very difficult to get a new key, so contact an 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 a lot harder to lose or steal than a traditional key made of metal. These keys do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a particular depth along the key's face. This makes it easy to distinguish between authentic and fake keys when looking at it from the top. They are easy to spot, so you won't get locked out if you have your key lost while you're doing errands or working.

If your key is a laser-cut one then you'll have to contact an locksmith who has equipment to make these types of replacements. Your local hardware store is unlikely to be able provide you with a laser-cut replacement key, as they lack the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

A locksmith will use a machine that looks very like a standard drill to cut the key's metal, which will remove the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code will be extracted from the VIN and the key will be cut to meet the specifications of your vehicle.

In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys do not have any electronics or chips inside that can be replaced, which means they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. This is why laser-cut keys are expensive, since they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.

It's a good idea to keep at least one spare key in your possession in case you happen to lose your car key. Then, you can call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so you can be back in your vehicle without having pay for Cost of Replacement Car Keys it to be tow by the dealer.

Fobs

If you do not own a classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that allow you to open and start the vehicle without the need for a key. These keys have special electronic chips that have to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. There are locksmiths who can perform this reprogramming on your behalf however it's better to have your dealer handle it. They have the right tools and are familiar with the specific vehicle you have, which can ensure it's done correctly.

The cost of replacing your car key fob can be as high as $500, depending on whether it is a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of a mechanical backup key that you may need in the event your fob gets lost or Cost of Replacement Car Keys stolen.

The loss of your car keys was once a source of frustration. It's now a major issue. That's because modern cars have made keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now take keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys come in various shapes and sizes, but the most expensive is one that comes with a transponder and a mechanical key inside the same fob. This "smart key" comes with an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob like an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to get lost or get tucked away in the pocket of a coat. They're generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the help of a dealership to replace.

If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be cloned to work with another vehicle, you might want to consider ordering an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who can program various vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for less than what a dealer charges, saving yourself as much as $200 or more. Make sure you buy the fob and key that has the same model, year and make as your original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.