How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of keys to your car is not a pleasant experience. 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 put together a guide on how much it costs to replace a car key.

Mechanical Keys

Not long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big issue. You could buy an extra key and then use it in the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it is much more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.

Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They can usually copy a key made of metal for less than $50. However, this type of key isn't equipped with an electronic chip, and therefore isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is because modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that need to be programmed to work properly. This can only by done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, such as a local locksmith or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.

The cost of mechanical keys is inexpensive, however the programming chip that is used in modern cars can cost you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to make sure you always have a backup key, and keep it somewhere secure.

It's important to identify the type of car key you own before seeking assistance. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder and then turned to start your car. These keys aren't as common however, you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The second type of car key is the transponder that has an embedded security chip that transmits an electronic signal to the car's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key and can only be done with specific tools that are accessible to a locksmith or dealer in the car. It could cost you $500 or more based on the model and make.

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use an embedded microchip in the key to communicate with your car key replacement price. When the key is placed in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it sends an encoded code that allows your car to start. This is a great feature to have as it helps to prevent theft. However, it also makes stealing your car more difficult as a burglar will need both the correct key and transmitter to turn on your car and then drive off with it.

The cost of purchasing a new transponder keys is typically slightly more expensive than a traditional key, but that is because it must be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be competent to program keys that have transponders, but it is always best to ask your car dealership if they can do so also. They are the best choice as they have the best expertise in programming these keys and will provide you with a better price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. It is important to do your research before purchasing your next car. You should be able to find out what type of key works with it and whether it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.

Some newer vehicles come with a transponder password system. These are a bit more complex as they require a specific key tool to program them. However they are also more secure as they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they're used. This means that if your keys were duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.

It is important that you don't attempt to break into your car by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This can be a red flag to insurance companies and will cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help particularly if they notice evidence that the vehicle has been altered or forced open. This can make it very hard to get replacement parts, so be sure to speak with an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

A key that has been laser-cut is much harder to lose or steal than a traditional key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they have a groove cut to a particular depth along the key's face. When looking at the key from above, it is easy to identify if it's a fake or not. They are easy to recognize and you won't be locked out of your home if your key gets lost while working or running errands.

If you have an uncut laser key, you will need to contact an expert locksmith who has the right equipment to create these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit isn't likely to create the replacement key laser-cut as they lack the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith will employ an instrument that resembles an ordinary drill to cut the metal of the key. This will remove all the surface to the desired length. The key's unique code will be extracted from the VIN, and the key will then be cut to match the specifications of your car.

Laser-cut keys are different from a normal transponder keys because they do not have electronic chips or electronics that can be changed. They must be destroyed and replaced with the new model. This is the reason why laser-cut keys can be expensive, as they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.

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

Fobs

If you don't own a classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that allow you to unlock and start your car without a key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that have to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Certain locksmiths can perform this reprogramming, however it's best to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the necessary tools.

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

It was once the case that losing your car key was a pain however, Replacement Car Keys Cost it's now a major issue. The reason is that modern cars have made the keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now take them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal the keys.

The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, however the one that comes with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank which 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 typically pricier than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the help of a dealership to replace.

If you have a spare fob that is in your car and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a firm such as Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key specialist which offers programming for replacement car keys cost a variety of vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob for less than the price a dealership would charge, costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as the original so that it can be programmed to work with your car.