How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It's never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.

If you lose your keys, it is an ideal idea to have a spare. To make this easier we've created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

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

The cheapest way to do this is to hire an auto locksmith. They are usually capable of copying a basic metal key and do so for about $50 or less. This type of key isn't equipped with a chip, and will not be able unlock doors or start an engine.

Modern car keys have transponders, also known as chips, which must be programmed in order to function properly. This is only done by a professional who knows what they're doing, for instance a local locksmith or even an expert from a dealership's service department.

The cost of having an electronic key copied is relatively cheap, but the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to ensure that you have a backup key and that you keep it somewhere safe.

There are five distinct types of car keys, so it's important to know which one you have before seeking help to replace it. An older, standard car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your vehicle. These keys aren't as common however you should be able find them at your local hardware store for about $10.

The next type is a transponder car key. It has embedded security microchips which sends a signal to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and start the engine. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and is only possible with specialized tools that are available to a locksmith or car dealer. The cost for this can be as high as $500 or Replacement Car Keys Cost more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by automobiles to connect with their car. They are equipped with microchips in the keys. When the key is close to your car, or placed in the ignition, it transmits an electronic code which signals your car to start. This is a great feature to have because 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 on before they could take off with it.

Transponder keys cost a little bit more than a regular one, but that's only because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with many locksmiths, but you should always ask your dealer about whether they are able to do it. They are the best choice as they have the best expertise in programming these keys and can offer you a better price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems. It is crucial to conduct your research prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able find out which type of key is compatible with it and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder system. These are more complex as they require a specific key tool to program them. However they are also more secure as they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they're used. This means that even if your key has been copied, it will not work with your car.

No matter what kind of key you have, it is crucial to never attempt to break into your own vehicle by yourself. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics won't help you if they see indications that your car has been forced open or tampered with. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a new key, so you should contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car key replacement service near me with a laser-cut key, you'll see that it's much harder to lose or be stolen than a traditional key made of metal. The keys don't have notches cut along the edge of the blade. Instead, there's a winding groove which cuts to a specific depth across the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from above, it is easy to determine if it's a fake or not. The fact that they're easy to spot also means that you're not at risk of getting locked out if you misplace your keys while working or running errands.

If you own an uncut laser key, you'll need to call an expert locksmith who has the necessary equipment to make these types of replacements. In most cases the hardware store you visit isn't able to make an original laser-cut key since they don't have the equipment required to cut and program these types of keys.

A locksmith will employ an apparatus that looks like an ordinary drill to mill the key's metal. This will cut the entire surface until it is the desired length. The key's unique code will be found from the VIN and the key will then be cut to meet the specifications of your car.

Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not contain any electronics or chips inside that can be replaced, which means they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. This is why laser-cut keys are so expensive, as they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.

Keep at least one spare car key in your possession just in the event of. Then, you can call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that you can be back in your car without having to pay for it to be towed to the dealer.

Fobs

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

The cost of having your car's key fob replaced could cost as much as $500, depending on the kind of key you use and whether it's smart or just remote-controlled. This does not include the cost of a mechanical backup key you may need in the event your fob gets lost or stolen.

Losing your car key used to be an inconvenience. Now, it's a huge problem. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in the technology of car keys have made it more difficult for thieves.

The new keys are available in a variety of dimensions and shapes, but the one that has both transponder and a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart key" comes with an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob, like an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to get lost or tucked inside a coat pocket. These are usually more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have an additional fob that works with your vehicle and can be copied to work in another vehicle, you might be interested in purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob at less than the price a dealership will charge, thereby which could save you $200 or more. Be sure to purchase the fob and key that's the same year, model and make as your original to ensure that it is compatible with your vehicle.