How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

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

Before you lose your key it is an ideal idea to have a spare. We have compiled a list on the price to replace the car key.

Mechanical Keys

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

Hiring an auto locksmith is the cheapest option. They'll usually be able to copy a basic metal key for about $50 or less. This kind of key does not have a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start an engine.

Modern car keys include transponders, or chips, that must be programmed to work properly. This is only done by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, for instance a local locksmith or even a car dealership service professional.

The cost of having an electronic key copied is relatively cheap, but the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key and keep it safe.

There are five different kinds of car keys, so it's important to know the type you have before seeking help to replace it. A standard, replacement car keys cost old-fashioned car key is a double-edged metal lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your car. Keys like these aren't as popular, but they are available at your local home improvement store for about $10.

The second type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip which sends a signal to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be done with specific tools that are available to a locksmith or dealer in the car. This can cost up to $500 or more depending on your car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys have a microchip inside of the key to connect with your car. 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 is a great feature to have as it helps to prevent theft. It also makes it 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.

A transponder key costs a little bit more than a regular one, however, it's because it has to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be capable of programming a transponder key, but it is always best to ask your dealership whether they are able to program it also. They are the best option because they have the most expertise in programming these keys and will provide you with a better price.

A lot of automakers have their own distinct anti-theft strategies in place. It is crucial to conduct your research prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which type of key works with it and if it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. They are a little more complicated because they require a specific key tool to program them. However they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they're used. This means that if your key were copied, it will not work in your car.

Regardless of what type of key you've got regardless of the type, it is essential to never attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will refuse to assist you if they notice indications that your car has been forced open or damaged. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a new key, so contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

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 have no 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 looking at the key from the top it's easy to identify whether it's fake or not. They are easy to spot, so you won't get locked out if you have your key lost key replacement car while doing errands or working.

If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact locksmiths that have equipment for these kinds of replacements. Most of the time the hardware store you visit won't be able make you a new laser-cut key because they don't have the machinery needed to cut and program these types of keys.

A locksmith will use a machine that appears like a standard drill to cut the metal of the key, which will cut off the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code can be extracted from the VIN and the key will then be cut to match the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys differ from normal transponder keys because they don't contain electronic components or chips that can be changed. They have to be destroyed and replaced with an entirely new model. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive due to the full reconstruction of the key.

It's always a good idea to keep at least one spare key on hand in the event that you accidentally lose your car keys. You can then call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so that you can get back into your vehicle without having pay for it to be tow to the dealer.

Fobs

There's a chance that you don't have an old-fashioned car, but your car probably utilizes the latest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. The keys contain computer chips that must be programmed to function with the vehicle you own. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming, but it is generally recommended to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and have all the necessary tools.

Getting your car key fob replaced could cost as high as $500, Replacement Car Keys Cost depending on the kind of key you use and whether it's remote-controlled or smart. This doesn't include cost of an electronic backup key that you may want in case your fob is lost or stolen.

It used to be that losing your car key was an inconvenience however, it's now an actual issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern automobiles have made keys that useful and reliable that thieves can take them. The advances in technology for car keys have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.

These new keys come in various sizes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that includes an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart" key comes with an elongated shank that is spring loaded and folds in the fob to form a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or put into a coat pocket. These are typically pricier than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the help of a dealer to replace.

If you have an additional fob that works with your vehicle and that can be cloned to work with another vehicle, you might be interested in purchasing an aftermarket replacement key for car cost from a company such as Amazon or a key and lock specialist that offers programming for various vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge and save yourself up to $200 or more. Make sure that 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.