How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It's never a good feeling to lose your car keys. GEICO can help you get back on the road fast with Emergency Roadside Service.

When you lose your key it is a good idea to have a spare. To make this easier, we have created a guide on the cost of replacement car keys. cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not long ago, misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big issue. You could buy an extra and put it in the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more advanced in technology, and it is much more costly to replace lost keys.

Employing an auto locksmith is the cheapest option. They will usually be able to copy a basic metal key at a cost of $50 or less. However, this type of key doesn't have an electronic chip, and therefore won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is due to the fact that modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that need to be programmed to work properly. This is only done by a professional that knows what they are doing, for instance a local locksmith or a car dealer service professional.

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

There are five different types of car keys, therefore it is important to identify the type you have before getting help with replacing it. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder, and turned to turn on your car. They're not as common, but you should be able find them at your local hardware store for about $10.

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

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use an embedded microchip in the key to connect with your car. When the key is inserted in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it transmits a code to signal your car to begin. This feature is great because it stops theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar will need both the correct key and the transmitter to start your car and take it away.

The cost of a new transponder key is usually a little more expensive than a standard key, but this is due to the fact that it must be programmed as well. It is possible to program a transponder key by most locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your car dealer if they can do it. They are the best choice since they have the most experience in programming these keys, and they can provide you with a better price.

A lot of automakers have their own unique anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it's crucial to research the most important options before you purchase your next car. You should be able to find out which kind of key works with it and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complicated because they require special tools 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 if your key was copied, it will not work in your car.

Whatever type of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital that you never try to gain entry into your vehicle yourself. This can raise red flags with insurance companies and make mechanics reluctant to help particularly if they notice indications that your car has been tampered with or forced to open. This will make it extremely difficult to obtain an exchange, so make certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much harder to take or lose than a key made of metal. These keys have no notches cut along the edges of the blade - instead there's a groove which cuts to a specific depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from the top it's easy to determine whether it's a fake or service not. 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 a laser-cut key, then you will need to contact an expert locksmith who has the necessary equipment to make these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit isn't likely to provide you with the replacement keys for car key laser-cut since they do not have the tools to cut and program this type of key fob.

A locksmith will employ a machine that looks very similar to a standard drill to mill the metal of the key. This will cut off the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code will be retrieved from the VIN, and the key will then be cut to meet your vehicle's specifications.

Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not contain any chips or electronics inside of them 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 expensive, as they require a total rebuild of the entire key.

It's always an excellent idea to have at least one spare key available in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. So, you'll be able to call the locksmith to cut it and program it for you so that you gain access to your vehicle again, without needing to pay to have it towed back at the dealership.

Fobs

There's a chance that you don't have an old classic car but your vehicle probably uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys contain special electronic chips that need to be programmed to function with the vehicle you own. There are locksmiths who can assist you in this process, though it's usually better to have your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car 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 a smart or remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of a mechanical backup key you may want in case your fob is lost or stolen.

The loss of your car keys was once a source of frustration. It's now a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern automobiles have made keys that convenient and powerful that thieves can steal them. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal the keys.

The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, however the one that has both a transponder as well as a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart key" features a spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob, similar to a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or hidden in the pocket of a coat. These are typically pricier than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the help of a dealership to replace.

If you have a spare key fob that can be used in your car and can be cloned, consider trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or an independent key and lock specialist that can program your vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for much less than what a dealer charges which could save you around $200 or more. Just make sure the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, model and model as your original so it can be coded to work with your vehicle.