How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It is never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road in a hurry with Emergency Roadside Service.

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

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, losing or losing keys to your car was not a big issue. You could just buy a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. However, modern cars are more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace the key that was lost.

The cheapest method of doing this is to get an auto locksmith. They are usually able to duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. However, this type of key doesn't come with chips and will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.

Modern car keys have transponders, also known as chips, which must be programmed properly. This is only 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 to have an electronic key copied is relatively low however programming the chips in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to ensure that you always have a backup key and keep it in a safe place.

It's important to identify the type of car keys you have before seeking help. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a classic 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 to find them at your local hardware store for about $10.

The next type is a transponder car key. It has an embedded security microchip that transmits a message to the car's computers to open the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and it can only be copied with special tools that only a locksmith or a dealer in the car industry has access to. The cost for this could be up to $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 placed into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This feature is great 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 off and drive off with it.

Transponder keys cost slightly more than a regular one, however, it's because it has to be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be capable of programming a transponder key, but it is always best to inquire with your car dealer if they can do so also. They are the best choice because they have the most expertise in programming these keys and will give you a better rate.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it is important to research the key options prior to buying your next car. You should be able to find out which type of key works with it and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Some newer cars come equipped with a transponder system for passwords. They are a little more complex as they require a specific key tool to program them. However they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key has been copied, it will not work with your vehicle.

It is essential to not attempt to break into your car on your own, no matter the type of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies and could cause many mechanics to refuse to help, especially if they see indications that your car has been tampered with or forced to open. It is very difficult to get a new key, so make sure you contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

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 be stolen than a conventional metal key. The keys don't have a notch along the edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a certain depth on the face of the key. This makes it very easy to tell the difference between authentic and fake keys when looking at it from the top. The fact that they're easy to recognize also means that you're not at risk of getting locked out if you happen to misplace your keys while working or doing for errands.

If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call locksmiths that have equipment for making these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to create the replacement key laser-cut because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith will employ a machine that appears like a standard drill to mill the key's metal, which will be able to cut the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The unique key's code is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.

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

It's an excellent idea to have 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 that you can be back in your vehicle without having to pay for it to be tow back to the dealer.

Fobs

You may not have an old-fashioned Car key fobs Replacement however, your car replacement key likely has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to unlock and start it without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that have to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming, but it is usually better to let your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are familiar with the specific vehicle you have to ensure that the reprogramming is done correctly.

The cost of replacing your car's key fob could be up to $500 based on whether it is an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. This does not include the cost of an electronic backup key that you may want in case the fob goes missing or is stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car keys was an inconvenience However, 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 them. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have made it harder for car key fobs replacement thieves to steal the keys.

The new keys are available in various dimensions and shapes however the most expensive is one that includes the transponder and mechanical key in the same fob. The "smart" key features a spring-loaded shank which folds in the fob to form the switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or tucked into a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the help of a dealer to replace.

If you have a spare key fob that can be used in your vehicle and could be copied, you might want to try to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or an independent key and lock specialist which offers programming for car key fobs Replacement a variety of vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for much less than what a dealer charges which could save you around $200 or more. Make sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as the original to ensure it is programmed to work with your vehicle.