How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

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

It is a good plan to buy an extra key before you lose yours. We have put together a guide on the price to replace the car key.

Mechanical Keys

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

The most affordable method to accomplish this is to get an auto locksmith. They usually can duplicate a metal key for less than $50. This type of key does not have chip and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start engines.

This is due to the fact that modern car keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only by done by a professional who knows what they are doing, for instance a local locksmith or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.

The cost to get a mechanical key copied is relatively cheap, but the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is by making sure you always have a backup key, and that you keep it somewhere secure.

There are five types of car keys available, so it's crucial to know which one you have prior to getting help with replacing it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged lock that can be inserted 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 next type is the transponder car key. It has embedded security microchips 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 one and can only be duplicated using specific tools that are only accessible to a locksmith or dealer in the car. The cost for this can be as high as $500 or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize a microchip inside of the key to connect with your car. When the key is close to your car or when it is inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that tells your car key lost replacement to start. This is a great feature to have as it deters theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car, since a burglar would require both the key and the transmitter to turn it on before they could take off with it.

The cost of a new transponder key is typically a little more expensive than a traditional key, but that is because it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by most locksmiths, but you should always ask your dealer about whether they are able to do it. They are the best option as they have the best knowledge of programming these keys, and they can offer you a better price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it's crucial to research the most important options before you purchase your next car. You should be able find out which kind of key will work with it, and whether or not it requires an unlocking device via a remote.

Certain newer vehicles have transponder password systems. They are a little more complex as they require a specific key tool to program them. However, they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that if your key was cloned it would not work in your car.

It is essential that you do not try to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the type of key. This could be a red flag to insurance companies and will cause many mechanics to refuse to help you out, especially if they see evidence that the car has been tampered with or forced to open. It is very difficult to get a new key, so contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

A key that has been laser-cut is much more difficult to take or lose than a key made of metal. The keys don't have notches cut along the edges of the blade. Instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a certain depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to distinguish between authentic and fake keys when looking at it from above. They are easy to recognize and will not get locked out if you have your key lost while doing errands or working.

If your key is laser-cut, you'll need to contact locksmiths that have equipment to make these types of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to provide you with the replacement key laser-cut because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith will use a machine that appears like a standard drill to cut the metal of the key. This will remove 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.

Laser-cut keys are different from a traditional transponder keys since they don't contain electronics or chips which can be altered. They must be destroyed and replaced with a new one. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are so expensive, since they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.

It's always a good idea to keep at least one spare key in your possession in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. This way you'll be able call the locksmith and cut and program the key for you so that you can gain access to your vehicle without needing to pay to have it tow-back to the dealership.

Fobs

You might not own an old classic vehicle but your vehicle probably has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to open and start it without the need for a traditional key. The keys contain computer chips that must be programmed to work with the vehicle you own. Certain locksmiths can perform this reprogramming, however it's better to let your dealer do it. They have the right tools and are knowledgeable about the specific vehicle you have and can ensure that it's done right.

The cost of having your car's key fob replaced could cost up to $500, based on the type of key you drive and if it's remote-controlled or smart. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key that you may want in case the fob goes missing or Car Key Fob Replacement is stolen.

The loss of your car keys was once a source of frustration. Now, it's a huge issue. The reason is that modern cars have made the keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now take keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in technology for car key fob replacement - check out this blog post via www.ypperfect.com - keys have made it more difficult for thieves.

The new keys are available in a variety of shapes and sizes however the most expensive is one that includes an electronic car key replacement transponder as well as a mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart key" features an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds down into the fob like the switchblade, making it less likely to get lost or hidden in a coat pocket. These are typically pricier than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and can be duplicated to work in another vehicle, you may think about purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who can program a variety of vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob for less than what a dealership will charge, saving up to $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 it can be coded to work with your car.