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 by providing Emergency Roadside Service.

When you lose your key, it is recommended to make a backup. To make this easier we have created a guide on the cost of replacement car keys. cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not long ago, misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big deal. You could buy an extra key and then use it in the ignition. However, today's cars are much more advanced in technology and it's more costly to replace keys that have been lost.

Employing an auto locksmith is the cheapest option. They are usually able to duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. This kind of key isn't equipped with a chip, and will not be able unlock doors or start an engine.

This is because modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, cost of replacement car keys that have to be programmed to work properly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who understands what they're doing, for instance an auto locksmith in your area or a car dealership service professional.

The cost of having a mechanical key copied is relatively cheap however programming the chips in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key and store it safely.

There are five distinct kinds of car keys, therefore it is important to identify which one you have prior to getting help with replacing it. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your vehicle. They're not as common however, they are available at your local home improvement store for around $10.

The next type 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 type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a basic mechanical key, and is only possible to copy it using specific tools that only a locksmith or dealer in the car industry has access to. The cost of this service can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your car.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize microchips inside the key to communicate with your car. When the key is near to your vehicle, or placed in the ignition, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is a wonderful feature to have because it discourages theft. However, it also makes stealing your car more difficult since a thief will need both the correct key and the transmitter in order to start your car and drive away with it.

The cost of a brand new transponder keys is typically slightly more expensive than a standard key, but that is because it must be programmed as well. Most locksmiths will be competent to program the transponder key, however it is recommended to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to do this also. This is because they usually have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys and could be able to give you a more competitive price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. It is crucial to conduct your research before purchasing your next car. You should be able find out which type of key is compatible with it, and whether or not it requires a remote to unlock it.

Certain newer vehicles have transponder password systems. These are more complex as they require special tools to program them. However they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key has been duplicated, it won't work with your car.

It is essential that you don't attempt to break into your car on your own, no matter the kind of key. This could be a red flag to insurance companies and cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help you out particularly if they notice signs that the vehicle has been damaged or forced to open. This can make it very difficult to obtain an exchange, so make sure to speak with an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

A key that has been laser-cut is much more difficult to lose or steal than a key made of metal. The keys don't have a notch on the edge. Instead, they have a groove that is cut to a certain depth along the face of the key. When looking at the key from the top, it is easy to identify if it's a fake or not. They are easy to recognize and you won't be locked out if you have your key lost while you're doing errands or working.

If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you will need to contact an expert locksmith with the equipment to create these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to provide you with an alternative key that is laser-cut, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith will use a machine that looks very similar to a standard drill to mill the key's metal, which will remove the entire surface of the key until 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.

Laser-cut keys are not like normal transponder keys because they don't contain electronic chips or electronics that can be changed. They have to be destroyed and replaced with a new one. This is why laser-cut keys are expensive, as they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.

It's recommended to keep at least one spare key on hand in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. You can then call an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed, so you can get back into your vehicle without having to pay for it to be tow by the dealer.

Fobs

If you don't own a classic car, chances are your vehicle uses one of the latest high-tech fobs that allow you to open and start the car without a key. These keys contain special electronic chips that need to be programmed in order to work with the car you own. Fortunately, some locksmiths can do this reprogramming for you, though it's usually best to have your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are well-versed in your particular car, which can ensure it's done correctly.

The cost of replacing your car key fob could 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 brand new mechanical backup key that you might wish to have in the event your fob is lost or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car key was a pain, but now it's a real problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys so easy to use and strong that thieves can take them. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal them.

The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, however the one with transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart key" features a spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob like the switchblade, making it less likely to get lost or get tucked away in pockets like a coat. These are typically pricier than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the assistance of a dealership to replace.

If you have a spare fob that is in your car and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement keys for cars from a company like Amazon or a third-party locksmith and cost of replacement car keys key specialist that offers programming for many automobiles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob at less than what a dealership would charge, saving up to $200 or more. Be sure to purchase the fob and key that has the same model, year and model as your original to ensure that it is compatible with your vehicle.