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 get back on the road.

It is a good idea to buy a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. To make this easier we have created a guide on the cost of replacement car keys. cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big deal. You could buy a spare key, and use it to turn on the ignition. However, today's cars are more technologically advanced and replacement car keys cost it is more expensive to replace the key that was lost.

The cheapest way to do this is to employ an auto locksmith. They usually can duplicate a metal key for less than $50. This kind of key doesn't have a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start an engine.

Modern car keys have transponders, or chips, that need to be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only by done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, such as an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer service professional.

The cost of mechanical keys is affordable, however the programming chip in a modern car will usually cost more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it safe.

There are five distinct kinds of car keys, therefore it is important to identify the type you have before seeking help to replace it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to start your car. These keys aren't as common however, you should be able 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 sends an alert to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key and can only be duplicated using specific tools that are only available to a locksmith or dealer in the car. The cost of this service can 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 car. They incorporate microchips in the keys. When the key is inserted into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car key replacement near me to start. This is a wonderful feature to have as it deters theft. But, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar will require both the correct key and transmitter to start your car and take it away.

Transponder keys cost a little bit more than a regular key, but that's only because it needs to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be competent to program a transponder key, but it is best to ask your car dealership whether they are able to program it as well. This is because they typically have the most experience with these kinds of keys, and may be able to offer you an affordable price.

Many automotive manufacturers have their own unique anti-theft systems in place. This is why it is important to research the key options prior to buying your next vehicle. You will be able to figure out which type of key will work with it, and whether or not it requires a remote to unlock it.

Some newer cars come equipped with a password transponder. These are more complex as they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, as they employ rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if the key is duplicated, it won't work with your vehicle.

It is crucial that you don't attempt to gain entry into your vehicle 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 in the event of evidence that the car has been tampered with or forced open. It is very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so you should contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much more difficult to lose or steal than a metal key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a specific depth along the face of the key. This makes it easy to tell the difference between authentic and fake keys when looking at it from above. They are easy to identify and you won't be locked out if your key is lost while doing errands or Replacement Car Keys Cost working.

If you own an uncut laser key, you'll need to call an expert locksmith who has the necessary equipment to make these types of replacements. Your local hardware store is unlikely to be able create 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 employ an instrument that appears similar to a standard drill to mill the key's metal, which will cut off the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique key's code is then extracted from the VIN and the key is then cut to your vehicle's specifications.

Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not contain any electronics or chips inside that can be replaced, which means they must be destroyed completely 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.

It's always a good idea to keep at least one spare key available in case you happen to lose your car key. So you'll be able call the locksmith to cut and program the key for you so that you can have access to your car without needing to pay to have it towed back at the dealership.

Fobs

Unless you own an old classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs which allow you to open and start the vehicle without the need for a key. These keys come with computer chips that need to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Certain locksmiths can perform this reprogramming, however it is generally best to let your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are knowledgeable about the specific vehicle you have, which can ensure it's done correctly.

Getting your car key fob replaced could cost up to $500, depending on the type of key you drive and if it's remote-controlled or smart. That doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key you might want to have in case your key fob goes missing or stolen.

It used to be that losing your car key was a hassle However, now it's a real problem. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now steal keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in different dimensions and shapes, but the one that has both a transponder as well as a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob like a switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or put in a pocket of a coat. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be copied to work in a different vehicle, you may be interested in purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a company such as Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for less than what a dealer charges, saving yourself around $200 or more. Make sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, make and model as your previous so that it can be programmed to work with your car.