How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It is never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO can help you get back on the road fast with Emergency Roadside Service.

It is a good idea to purchase a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. To make it easier, we have created a guide on how much replacement Car key car key cover replacement keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big deal. You could purchase an extra key and then use it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and it's more costly to replace keys that have been lost.

Employing an auto locksmith is the cheapest option. They usually can duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. This kind of key doesn't have a chip, and will not be able unlock doors or start an engine.

Modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, that need to be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only be done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, such as the local locksmith or car dealer professional who is a service expert.

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

There are five distinct kinds of car keys, so it's crucial to know which one you have before seeking help to replace it. A more traditional, older car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your vehicle. These aren't common anymore however, you should be able 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 sends a message to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a standard mechanical key, and can only be copied with special tools that only a locksmith or dealer in the car industry has access to. The cost for this could be up to $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their vehicle. They use an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is put in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it sends a code to signal your car to begin. This is an excellent 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.

The cost of a new transponder keys is typically higher than a traditional key, but that is because it has to be programmed as well. It is possible to program a transponder key by most locksmiths, but you should always ask your dealer if they can do it. They are the best option because they have the most expertise in programming these keys, and they can give you a better rate.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it is essential to research all the key options before you purchase your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which kind of key it is compatible with and whether it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder. They are more complicated as they require specialized tools to program them. However they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that if your keys were cloned it would not work in your car.

Regardless of what type of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital that you do not attempt to break into your own vehicle yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics will not assist you if they observe signs that your car has been forced open or damaged. It can be extremely difficult to get a new key, so make sure you contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much harder to take or lose than a traditional key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that's cut to a particular depth in the middle of the face of the key. This makes it very easy to differentiate between a genuine and fake key when looking at it from the top. They are easy to identify, so you won't get locked out if you have your key lost while you're doing errands or working.

If you own keys that have been laser-cut, you will need to contact a professional locksmith who has the right equipment to make these types of replacements. Your local hardware store is unlikely to be able make you an alternative key that is laser-cut, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith will use a machine that appears like a standard drill to mill the metal of the key, which will remove the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The unique code of the key is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut to your vehicle's specifications.

Laser-cut keys differ from normal transponder keys because they don't contain electronic chips or electronics which can be altered. They must be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. This is why laser-cut keys are expensive, as they require a total rebuild of the entire key.

It's always recommended to keep at least one spare key in your possession in the event that you accidentally lose your car keys. You can then contact a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can reenter your car without having to pay for it to be tow to the dealer.

Fobs

Unless you own an old classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start your car without having a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming but it's recommended to let your dealer handle it. They have the right tools and are knowledgeable about your specific car, which can ensure it's done correctly.

The cost of replacing your car key fob can be as high as $500, depending on whether it is a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.

It used to be that losing your car key was a pain However, now it's a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves can steal keys. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the one that has both a transponder as well as a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart" key has an elongated shank that is spring loaded and folds into the fob like an e-switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or tucked in a pocket of a coat. These are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be copied to work in another vehicle, you might want to consider ordering an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or a key and lock specialist that offers programming for many different vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for much cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge, saving yourself as much as $200 or more. Be sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, make and model as your original so it can be coded to work with your vehicle.