How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It's never a good feeling 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 recommended to have a spare made. To make it easier, we have put together a guide to how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, losing or losing a car key was no big deal. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. However, modern automobiles are more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace the key that was lost.

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

This is because modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that have to be programmed to work properly. This is only done by a professional who knows what they're doing, like an auto locksmith in your area or an expert from a dealership's service department.

The cost of having a mechanical key copied is fairly low, but the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key in your car and keep it safe.

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 placed into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your car. These keys aren't as common, but you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.

The next type is a transponder car key. This key has an embedded security microchip that transmits a message to the computer in the vehicle to unlock the doors and start the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key, and can only be copied using special tools that only a locksmith or dealer can access. It could cost you $500 or more depending on the make and model.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize a microchip inside of the key to connect with your car. When the key is close to your car, or inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code which signals your car to start. This is a wonderful feature to have as it helps to prevent theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car because a burglar will need both the key and the transmitter to turn it off and drive off with it.

A transponder key is slightly more than a regular key, however, it's because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by the majority of locksmiths, however you should always inquire with your car dealer if they can do it. They are the best option as they have the best experience in programming these keys, and they can provide you with a better price.

Many automotive manufacturers have their own unique anti-theft systems in place. It is crucial to conduct your research before purchasing your next car. You should be able find out which kind of key works with it and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder password system. These are more complicated because they require a special key tool to program them. However, they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key is duplicated, it won't work with your vehicle.

It is important that you do not try to break into your car on your own, no matter the type of key. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics will not assist you if they observe indications that your car has been forced open or tampered with. This can make it very difficult to obtain an exchange, so make certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have 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. These keys have no notches cut along the edges of the blade - instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a certain depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from the top it's easy to determine if it's a fake or not. They are easy to recognize and you won't be locked out if your key is lost while working or running errands.

If your key is a laser-cut one then you'll have to contact locksmiths that have equipment for making these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to create a laser-cut replacement key, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this type of key fob.

A locksmith uses a machine that looks very like a standard drill to cut the key's metal, which will be able to cut the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code can be found from the VIN, and the key will be cut to meet your vehicle's specifications.

Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not have any electronics or chips inside that can be replaced, which means they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive since they require a full rebuild of the key.

It's an excellent idea to have at least one spare key available in case you happen to lose your car keys. You can then contact a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that you can get back into your vehicle without having pay for it to be tow by the dealer.

Fobs

If you do not 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 vehicle without the need for a key. The keys contain electronic chips that need to be programmed to work with the vehicle you own. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming, but it is generally best to have your dealer do it. They have the right tools and are familiar with your particular cheap car keys replacement and can ensure that it's done right.

Getting your car key fob replaced could cost as high as $500, depending on the type of key you use and if it's remote-controlled or smart. This doesn't include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that your key fob goes missing or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car keys was a hassle, but now it's a real problem. The reason is that modern cars have made the keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in technology for car keys have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in different shapes and sizes and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that has an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key within the same fob. The "smart" key comes with a spring-loaded shank which can fold into the fob in the same way as the switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or put in a pocket of a coat. They're generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and could require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be copied to work in another vehicle, you might think about purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock that offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob at an affordable price compared to what a dealership will charge, thereby saving up to $200 or more. Make sure you buy the fob and key that is the same year, model and make as the original to ensure that it can be programmed for replacements your vehicle.