How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing keys to your car is not a pleasant experience. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road fast 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 the cost of replacement car keys. cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge issue. You could purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. However, today's cars are much more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace a lost key.

The cheapest method of doing this is to hire an auto locksmith. They are usually able to duplicate a metal key for less than $50. However, this kind of key doesn't have a chip and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is due to the fact that modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that have to be programmed in order to work properly. This can only be done by a professional who knows 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 fairly low, but the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key on hand and keep it safe.

It is important to determine the type of car keys you have before seeking help. A standard, older car key is a double-edged metal lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your car. Keys like these aren't as popular however they are available at your local home improvement store for about $10.

The next type of car key is a transponder key with an embedded security chip that transmits an alert to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be duplicated using special tools that are only available to a locksmith or car dealer. The cost for this can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys have microchips inside the key that communicates with your car. When the key is inserted into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it transmits a code to signal your car to begin. This is a great feature because it deters theft. But, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult since a thief will need both the correct key and transmitter in order to start your car and then drive off with it.

A transponder key is a little bit more than a regular key however, it's because it needs to be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be competent to program keys that have transponders, but it is always best to inquire with your car dealer if they can do so as well. They are the best choice because they have the most knowledge of programming these keys, and they can offer you a better price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it is important to research the key options before you purchase your next vehicle. You will be able to figure out what type of key is compatible with it and if it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.

Some newer cars come equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complicated as they require a special key tool to program them. However, Electronic car key replacement they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that if your keys were cloned it would not work in your car.

Regardless of what type of key you've got, it is crucial that you never try to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics won't help you if they notice indications that your car has been forced open or damaged. This will make it extremely difficult to obtain an exchange, so make sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll find that it's much harder to lose or steal than a conventional metal key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a particular depth along the face of the key. When you look at the key from above it's easy to tell whether it's fake or not. They are easy to recognize and you won't be locked out of your home if your key gets lost car key replacement while you're doing errands or working.

If your key is a laser-cut one then you'll have to contact locksmiths that have equipment for these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases, your local hardware store isn't able to make you a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the equipment required to cut and program these types of key fobs.

A locksmith will use an instrument that appears like a standard drill to cut the metal of the key. This will remove the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut to the specifications of your vehicle.

Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys don't have any Electronic Car Key Replacement components or chips inside that can be replaced, which means that they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a new key. This is why laser-cut keys are so expensive, as they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.

It's an excellent idea to have at least one spare key on hand in the event that you accidentally lose your car key. So you'll be able call the locksmith to have it cut and programmed for you, so that you can have access to your car without needing to pay to have it tow back at the dealership.

Fobs

If you don't own a classic car, chances that your car is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start the car without having a key. The keys contain computer chips which need to be programmed to function with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able perform this reprogramming, however it is generally best to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and have all the necessary tools.

Getting your car key fob replaced can cost up to $500, based on the type of key you drive and whether it's a smart or remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key that you may want to have in case your key fob goes missing or stolen.

It used to be that losing your car keys was a pain however, it's now a real problem. Richard Reina, electronic car key replacement CARiD's training director, says that modern automobiles have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves can take them. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal them.

The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the one that has both a transponder as well as a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart key" has a spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob, like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or hidden in pockets like a coat. These keys are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have a spare fob that works in your vehicle and could be duplicated, think about trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a firm such as Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key company which offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge, saving yourself around $200 or more. Be sure to purchase a fob and a key that has the same year, model and make as the original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.