How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road quickly with Emergency Roadside Service.

When you lose your key It is recommended to have a spare made. To make this more convenient we have created a guide on the cost of replacement car keys. cost.

Mechanical Keys

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

The cheapest way to do this is to get an auto locksmith. They usually can duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. This kind of key isn't equipped with a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start an engine.

Modern car keys come with transponders, also known as chips, which must be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only by done by a professional who 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 cheap however programming the chip used in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key on hand and store it safely.

There are five kinds of car keys, therefore it is important to identify which one you have before seeking help to replace it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged metal lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. These aren't common anymore however you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.

The next kind of car key is a transponder key, which has an embedded security chip that sends an electronic signal to the car's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and it can only be copied using specialized tools that only a locksmith or a car dealer has access to. The cost of this service can be up to $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their car. They use an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is near to your vehicle or inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that tells your car to begin. This is a great feature to have because it discourages theft. But, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar will require both the correct key and transmitter in order to turn your car on and drive away with it.

The cost of a new transponder key is usually slightly more expensive than a traditional key, but this is due to the fact that it has to be programmed as well. The majority of locksmiths will be capable of programming keys that have transponders, but it is best to inquire with your car dealer if they can do so also. They are the best choice since they have the most expertise in programming these keys, and they can give you a better rate.

Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it is essential to research all the key options before you purchase your next car. You should be able to find out which kind of key is compatible with it, and whether or not it requires an unlocking device via a remote.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a password transponder. These are more complex as they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, because they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key has been cloned, it will not work with your car.

No matter what kind of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital to never attempt to break into your own vehicle yourself. This could raise red flags with insurance companies and cause many mechanics to refuse to help particularly if they notice indications that your vehicle has been damaged or forced to open. This could make it hard to get a replacement, so be sure to speak with an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much more difficult to take or lose than a traditional key. These keys do not have a notch along the edge. Instead, they have a groove that is cut to a certain depth in the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from above, it is easy to identify whether it's fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to recognize also means that you're not at risk of being locked out if you lose your keys while working or doing around.

If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call locksmiths that have equipment for these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit is unlikely to be able provide you with a laser-cut replacement key, since they do not have the tools to cut and replacement car keys cost program this kind of key fob.

Locksmiths use an instrument that resembles the drill used in standard homes to mill the key's metal. This will cut the entire surface to the desired length. The unique key's code is then extracted from the VIN and the key is then cut to your vehicle's specifications.

Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not contain any chips or electronics inside them that could be replaced, which means that they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys are expensive since they require a full reconstruction of the key.

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

Fobs

You may not have an old-fashioned car however, your car likely utilizes the latest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. The keys contain computer chips which need to be programmed in order to work with the car you own. Fortunately, some locksmiths can assist you in this process but it's generally recommended to let your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and have all the necessary tools.

The cost of replacing your car's key fob can be up to $500 based on whether it's smart key or remote-controlled key. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key you may want in case the fob goes missing or is stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car key was a pain, but now it's a real problem. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so convenient and capable that thieves are now able to steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal the keys.

The new keys come in different shapes and sizes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that comes with a transponder and a mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart key" comes with an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob, similar to a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or hidden in the pocket of a coat. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have a spare fob that can be used in your vehicle and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement key fobs for cars from a firm such as Amazon or an independent locksmith and key company that offers programming for many automobiles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at less than what a dealership will charge, thereby saving up to $200 or more. Be sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as the original to ensure it is programmed to work with your vehicle.