How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of your car keys is not a pleasant experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road in a hurry with Emergency Roadside Service.

It is a good idea to order a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. We have compiled a list on the price to replace a car key.

Mechanical Keys

Not long ago, misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big issue. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. However, today's cars are more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace a lost key replacement car key.

The cheapest method of doing this is to hire an auto locksmith. They can usually copy a metal key for less than $50. However, this kind of key doesn't come with chips and will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.

This is because modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to function correctly. This is only done by a professional who knows what they're doing, for instance an auto locksmith in your area or replacement Remote Car keys an auto dealership service professional.

The cost to get an electronic key copied is relatively low however programming the chips in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key on hand and store it safely.

It's crucial to know the type of car keys you own before seeking assistance. A standard, older car key is a double-edged metal lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. They're not as common, but you should be able find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.

The second type of car key is the transponder key that has an embedded security chip that sends an alert to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and allow the engine to start. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be done with special tools that are only accessible to a locksmith or car dealer. The cost for this can be up to $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your car.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys have an embedded microchip in the key that communicates with your car. When the key is placed close to your vehicle or when it is inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code which signals your car to start. This feature is great as it wards off theft. However, it also makes stealing your car more difficult as a burglar requires both the right key and transmitter to turn your car on and drive away with it.

The cost of replacement car keys of a new transponder keys is typically slightly more expensive than a conventional key, but this is due to the fact that it has to be programmed as well. It is possible to program a transponder key by the majority of locksmiths, however you should always ask your dealer about whether they are able to do it. This is because they usually have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys and could be able to offer you a more competitive price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. It is essential to conduct your research prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to figure out which type of key works with it and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a password transponder. These are more complex as they require specialized tools to program them. However they are also more secure because they employ rolling code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that if your key was copied, it will not work in your car.

Regardless of what type of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital that you do not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they see indications that your car was opened or damaged. This will make it extremely difficult to obtain a replacement, so be certain to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll find that it's a lot harder to lose or steal than a conventional metal key. These keys do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they have a groove that is cut to a particular depth on the key's face. This makes it easy to distinguish between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from the top. The fact that they're so easy to recognize also means that you can avoid getting locked out if you happen to misplace your keys while working or doing for errands.

If you have a laser-cut key, then you'll need to call an expert locksmith with the equipment to make these kinds of replacements. Most of the time the hardware store you visit isn't able to make a new laser-cut key because they don't have the machinery required to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.

A locksmith will employ an instrument that resembles a standard drill in order to mill the key's metal. This will reduce the entire surface to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut according to your vehicle's specifications.

Laser-cut keys differ from normal transponder keys because they do not contain any electronic components or chips that can be changed. They must be destroyed and replaced with an entirely new model. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive due to the full rebuild of the key.

Keep at least one spare car key in your possession in case of case. So you'll be able call the locksmith to cut it and program it for you, so that you gain access to your vehicle again without having to pay to have it tow-back by the dealership.

Fobs

If you don't own a classic car, the chances are your vehicle uses one of the latest high-tech fobs that allow you to unlock and start the car without having a key. These keys come with computer chips that must be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Fortunately, some locksmiths can assist you in this process however it's best to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the necessary tools.

The cost of having your car's key fob replaced could cost as much as $500, depending on the type of key you use and if it's smart or just remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of a mechanical backup key you may want in case the fob goes missing or is stolen.

Losing your car key was once a hassle. Now it's a serious problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern automobiles have made keys that easy to use and strong that thieves can take keys. The advancements in car key technologies have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, but the one with transponder and mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart key" comes with an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds into the fob, similar to a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or hidden in a coat pocket. These keys are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and that can be duplicated to work in another vehicle, you may be interested in purchasing a replacement remote car Keys aftermarket from a business like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock that offers programming for various vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob at an affordable price compared to the price a dealership would charge, costing as little as $200 or more. Just make sure the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, make and model as your previous so it can be coded to work with your vehicle.