How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

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

If you lose your keys it is an ideal idea to have a spare made. To make this easier we've put together a guide to the cost of replacement car keys. cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge deal. You could purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. However, modern cars are much more advanced in technology and it's more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.

The cheapest method of doing this is to hire an auto locksmith. They can usually copy a metal key for less than $50. However, this kind of key doesn't have an electronic chip, and therefore won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is because modern car keys are equipped with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed to function properly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they're doing, for instance a local locksmith or even a car dealership service professional.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively 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 ensure that you always have a backup key, and that you keep it somewhere secure.

There are five distinct types of car keys, therefore it is important to identify which one you have prior to seeking help to replace it. An older, standard car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your car. They're not as common, but you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for about $10.

The second type of car key is the transponder that has an embedded security chip that sends a signal to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and enable the engine to start. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be duplicated using specialized tools that are available to a locksmith or dealer in the car. This can cost up to $500 or more depending on the car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to connect with their car. They use microchips in the keys. When the key is close to your vehicle or inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to start. This feature is beneficial because it stops theft. However, replacement car keys cost it also makes stealing your car more difficult since a thief will need both the correct key and the transmitter in order to turn on your car and take it away.

The cost of purchasing a new transponder keys is typically slightly more expensive than a traditional key, but only because it must be programmed as well. The majority of locksmiths will be competent to program a transponder key, but it is always best to ask your dealership whether they are able to do this as well. This is because they often have the most experience with these kinds of keys, and may be able to offer you an affordable price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it is essential to research all the key options prior to buying your next car. You should be able find out which type of key will work with it and whether it requires an unlocking device via a remote.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complicated as they require a specific key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, because they use rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key has been cloned, it will not work with your car.

Regardless of what type of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital to never attempt to gain entry into your vehicle yourself. This can be a red flag to insurance companies and make mechanics reluctant to help, especially if they see indications that your vehicle has been altered or forced to open. It is very difficult to obtain a new key, so contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

You'll find a laser-cut key is much harder to lose or steal than a metal key. These keys have no notches cut along the edge 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 very easy to distinguish between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from above. The fact that they're easy to identify also means that you can avoid being locked out if you lose your key while you're working or doing around.

If you own keys that have been laser-cut, you will need to contact a professional locksmith with the equipment to make these types of replacements. Your local hardware store isn't likely to provide you with the replacement key laser-cut because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

A locksmith will use an instrument that resembles a standard drill in order to mill the metal of the key. This will remove the entire surface until it is the desired length. The key's unique code can be extracted from the VIN, and the key will be cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.

Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not contain any chips or electronics inside them that could be replaced, which means they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys are expensive because they require a full reconstruction of the key.

It's a good idea to keep at least one spare key on hand in case you happen to lose your car key. You can then contact a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so you can get back into your car key button replacement without having to pay for it to be tow by the dealer.

Fobs

You might not have an old classic car, but your car probably utilizes the latest high-tech fobs to open and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that need to be programmed in order to work with the car you own. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming but it is generally recommended to have your dealer do it. They have the necessary 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 can cost as much as $500, depending on the type of key you use and if it's remote-controlled or smart. That's not even including the cost of a new mechanical backup key you might need in the event that your key fob goes missing or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car keys was an inconvenience However, now it's an actual issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern cars have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves can steal them. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal them.

The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes however the most expensive is one that includes an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart key" features an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob, like the switchblade, making it less likely to be lost or tucked inside the pocket of a coat. They are generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and could require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have a spare key fob that can be used in your car and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key specialist which offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges, saving yourself as much as $200 or more. Make sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, model and model as the original so that it can be programmed to work with your vehicle.