How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It is never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO can help you get back on the road quickly with Emergency Roadside Service.

It is a good plan to buy a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. To make it easier, we have created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big deal. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it's much more expensive to replace lost keys.

Employing an auto locksmith is the cheapest option. They'll usually be capable of copying a standard metal key and do so for around $50 or less. This type of key isn't equipped with chip and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start an engine.

This is because modern automobile keys come with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed in order to work correctly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they are doing, for instance the local locksmith or car dealer service professional.

The cost of having an electronic key copied is relatively cheap, but the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is by making sure you have a backup key, and keep it somewhere safe.

It's important to identify the type of car keys you own before seeking assistance. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be placed 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 around $10.

The next kind of car key is the transponder that has an embedded security chip that transmits an alert to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and allow the engine to start. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be duplicated using specific tools that are only available to a locksmith or car dealer. The cost for this could be as high as $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your car.

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use microchips inside the key to communicate with your car. When the key is put into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it transmits a code to signal your car to begin. This feature is beneficial as it wards off theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult since a thief will require both the correct key and the transmitter in order to start your car and then drive off with it.

The cost of a new transponder key is usually slightly more expensive than a traditional key, but this is due to the fact that it has to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be capable of programming a transponder key, but it is always best to ask your dealership whether they are able to program it also. This is because they typically have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys, and may be able to give you a more competitive price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. It is essential to conduct your research before purchasing your next vehicle. You will be able to figure out what type of key works with it and whether it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.

Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder password system. These are more complicated because they require a specific key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, because 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 crucial that you do not try to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the kind of key. This could be a red flag to insurance companies and will cause many mechanics to refuse to assist you particularly if they notice indications that your vehicle has been damaged or forced to open. This can make it very difficult to obtain an exchange, so make sure to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

You'll find a laser-cut key is much harder to take or lose than a metal key. The keys don't have a notch on the edge. Instead, they have a groove that's cut to a particular depth on the key's face. This makes it very easy to tell the difference between authentic and fake keys when you look at it from above. The fact that they're easy to identify also means that you can avoid being locked out in the event that you lose your keys while working or running for errands.

If you have a laser-cut key, then you'll need to call an expert locksmith with the equipment to make these kinds 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 kind of key fob.

A locksmith will employ an instrument that resembles a standard drill in order to mill the key's metal. This will remove the entire surface to the desired length. The unique key's code is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut to your vehicle's specifications.

Laser-cut keys are not like regular transponder key because they don't contain electronics or chips that can be replaced. They must be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. This is why laser-cut keys are so 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 the event that you accidentally lose your car keys. Then, you can call an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed, so you can be back in your vehicle without having pay for it to be towed to the dealer.

Fobs

There's a chance that you don't have an old classic car, but your car probably has one of the most modern 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 in order to function with the vehicle you own. There are locksmiths who can perform this reprogramming on your behalf however it's best to have your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and have all the tools needed.

Getting your car key fob replaced could cost as much as $500, based on the type of key you use and if it's a smart or remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of a mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that your fob gets lost car keys replacement or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car key was a hassle however, remote car key replacement it's now a major issue. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so easy and reliable that thieves are now able to steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, however the one that comes with transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank which folds into the fob like an e-switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or tucked into a coat pocket. These are usually more expensive than simple remote Car key Replacement-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have a spare key fob that is in your vehicle and could be duplicated, think about trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company 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 at a much lower cost than the price a dealership would charge, costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure you buy a key and fob that has the same model, year and make as the original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.