How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It's never a good feeling to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the roads.

It is a good plan to order a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. We have put together a guide on the cost to replace a car key.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big deal. You could buy an extra and put it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it is much more expensive to replace keys lost.

The most affordable method to accomplish this is to get an auto locksmith. They will usually be able to copy a basic metal key and do so for around $50 or less. This kind of key does not have chip and won't be able to unlock doors or start an engine.

This is because modern car keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed to work properly. This can only be done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like the local locksmith or car dealer service professional.

The cost to have a mechanical key copied is relatively low however, 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 Replacement Car Keys Cost keep it in a safe place.

It is important to determine the type of car key you own before seeking assistance. An older, standard car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your car. These aren't common anymore, Replacement Car Keys Cost but you should be able find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The second type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and start the engine. This type 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 can access. This can cost up to $500 or more, depending on the make and model.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to connect with their car. They use an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is put in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it sends a code to signal your car to start. This feature is beneficial because it deters theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar will require both the correct key and transmitter to start your car and take it away.

A transponder key is slightly more than a regular key but that's only because it needs to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be capable of programming the transponder key, however it is recommended to ask your dealership whether they are able to do this as well. They are the best option because they have the most knowledge of programming these keys and will offer you a better price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems in place. It is crucial to conduct your research prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able to figure out which kind of key works with it and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Certain newer vehicles have a transponder-based password system. These are a bit more complicated 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 the key is copied, it will not work with your vehicle.

Regardless of what type of key you have, it is crucial that you do not attempt to open the door of your vehicle by yourself. This can cause alarms to insurance companies and will make mechanics reluctant to help you out, especially if they see indications that your vehicle has been altered or forced open. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a new key, so you should contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a vehicle equipped with a laser cut key, you'll find that it's a lot harder to lose or be stolen than a traditional metal key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edges of the blade - instead there's a groove that cuts to a certain depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from above it's easy to identify whether it's a fake or not. They are easy to identify, so you won't get locked out if you have your key lost while doing errands or working.

If you have an uncut laser key, you will need to contact a locksmith professional who has the right equipment to make these types of replacements. In most cases, your local hardware store isn't able to make an original laser-cut key since they don't have the equipment required to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.

Locksmiths use an instrument that resembles an ordinary drill to cut the key's metal. This will cut the entire surface to the desired length. The unique key's code is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut to the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys are different from a regular transponder key because they do not have electronic components or chips which can be altered. They must be destroyed and replaced with a new one. This is the reason why laser-cut keys can be expensive, as they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.

Have at least one spare car key in your possession in case of case of. You can then call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so that you can be back in your vehicle without having pay for it to be towed back to the dealer.

Fobs

If you do not own a classic car, the chances that your car 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. The keys contain computer chips that must be programmed in order to work with the vehicle you own. Certain locksmiths can perform this reprogramming, however it is usually best to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and have all the tools needed.

The cost of replacing your car key fob can be as high as $500 depending on whether it is an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include cost for replacement car key of an electronic backup key that you may want in case your fob is lost or 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 the keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now 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, but the one that comes with transponder and mechanical keys is the most expensive. The "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank that folds in the fob to form a switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or put into a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the help of a dealership to replace.

If you have a spare key fob that is in your vehicle and can be duplicated, think about trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement key for car from a company such as Amazon or an independent locksmith and key specialist which offers programming for a variety of automobiles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob at an affordable price compared to what a dealership would charge, saving up to $200 or more. Be sure to purchase the fob and key that has the same year, model and make as your original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.