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 return to the road.

It is a good idea to buy a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. We have compiled a list on how much it costs to replace the car key.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, losing or losing a car key was no big problem. 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 cheapest way to do this is to get an auto locksmith. They are usually able to duplicate a metal key for less than $50. However, this type of key doesn't have a chip and won't be 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 in order to work properly. This is only done by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, such as an auto locksmith in your area or a car dealership service professional.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively inexpensive, however the programming chip that is used in the latest cars will typically cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is by making sure you have a backup key and keep it somewhere safe.

It is important to determine the type of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged metal lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to start your car. They're not as common however, they are available at your local home improvement store for $10.

The second type is the transponder car key. It has embedded security microchips that sends a message to the computer in the vehicle to open the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be done with specific tools that are only available to a locksmith or dealer of cars. It could cost you $500 or more, depending on the model and make.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their vehicle. They use microchips in the keys. When the key is inserted in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it transmits an encoded code that allows your car to start. This feature is beneficial because it stops theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car as a thief would need both the key and the transmitter to turn it on and drive off with it.

The cost of a new transponder key is typically higher than a conventional key, but only because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by the majority of locksmiths, however you should always inquire with your dealer if they can do it. This is because they usually have the most experience with these kinds of keys, and may be able to give you an affordable 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 car. You should be able to find out which kind of key is compatible with it and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. They are more complicated as they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, since they employ 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 car.

Whatever type of key you've got regardless of the type, it is essential that you do not attempt to open the door of your vehicle yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they notice signs that your car has been opened or damaged. This could make it hard to get an exchange, so make sure to speak with an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

You'll find a laser-cut key is much more difficult to take or lose than a traditional key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edges of the blade - instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a set depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from above, it is easy to identify whether it's a fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to recognize also means that you can avoid getting locked out if you misplace your key while you're at work or running around.

If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact locksmiths that have equipment to make these types of replacements. Your local hardware store is unlikely to be able provide you with a laser-cut replacement key, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

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

Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys don't have any chips or electronics inside of them that can be replaced, so they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. This is why laser-cut keys are so expensive, since they require a total rebuild of the entire key.

Have at least one spare car key in your possession in case of case of. That way you'll be able call the locksmith and cut it and program it for you so that you can gain access to your vehicle again without needing to pay to have it towed back by the dealership.

Fobs

If you do not own a classic car, chances that your car is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that allow you to open and start your car without a key. These keys contain special electronic chips that need to be programmed to work with the vehicle you own. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming but it is generally better to let your dealer do it. They have the right tools and are familiar with your particular car and can ensure that it's done correctly.

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

It used to be that losing your car key was a pain However, Replacement Car Keys Cost now it's a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern cars have made keys so convenient and powerful that thieves are able to take them. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but the most expensive one is one that comes with the transponder and mechanical key inside the same fob. This "smart" key comes with a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob like an e-switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or hidden in a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and could require the assistance of a dealership to replace.

If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and can be copied to work in a different vehicle, you might want to consider ordering a replacement aftermarket from a company such as Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist that offers programming for many different vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob for a much lower cost than what a dealership would charge, which could save you $200 or more. Make sure you buy a fob and a key that's the same year, model and model as your original to ensure it can be programmed for your vehicle.