How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the road.

Before you lose your key, it is an ideal idea to have a spare made. To make it easier we have created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big deal. You could buy a spare key, and use it to turn the ignition. However, today's cars are much more advanced in technology and it's more costly to replace the key that was lost.

The most affordable method to accomplish this is to employ an auto locksmith. They are usually able to duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with a chip and isn't 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 have to be programmed to function correctly. This is only done by a professional who understands what they're doing, like an auto locksmith in your area or an expert from a dealership's service department.

The cost of having an electronic key copied is fairly low, but the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key in your car and keep it safe.

It's important to identify the type of car keys you have before contacting a locksmith. A classic, old-fashioned car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your vehicle. They're not as common however, you should be able find them at your local hardware store for about $10.

The second type of car key is the transponder with an embedded security chip that transmits an alert to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a standard mechanical key, and it can only be copied with specialized tools that only a locksmith or a dealer can access. The cost for this could be as high as $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your car.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by automobiles to connect with their car. They are equipped with a microchip in the key. When the key is inserted in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it sends an encoded code that allows your car to start. This feature is great because it deters theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car because a burglar will need both the key and the transmitter to turn it off and drive off with it.

The cost of a new transponder keys is typically slightly more expensive than a conventional key, but only because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by most locksmiths, but you should always ask your dealer about whether they can do it. This is because they usually have the most experience with these kinds of keys, and may be able to provide you with an affordable price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. It is crucial to conduct your research prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to figure out which kind of key is compatible with it and cheapest Car key Replacement if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder-based password system. They are a little 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 every time they are used. This means that even if your key is cloned, it will not work with your car.

No matter what kind of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital to never attempt to open the door of your vehicle yourself. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they observe indications that your car has been opened or damaged. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a replacement key, so make sure you contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car with a laser-cut key, you'll see that it's much harder to lose or steal than a traditional key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that's cut to a particular depth in the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from above it's easy to identify whether it's a fake or not. The fact that they're easy to recognize also means that you're not at risk of being locked out in the event that you happen to misplace your key while you're at work or running around.

If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to talk to an expert locksmith who has the right equipment to make these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit isn't likely to create a laser-cut replacement key, as they lack the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

A locksmith uses an instrument that appears like a regular drill to cut the metal of the key, which will cut off the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The key's unique code will be retrieved from the VIN and the key will be cut to match the specifications of your car.

Laser-cut keys differ from regular transponder key because they do not contain any electronic components or chips which can be altered. They have to be destroyed and replaced with a new one. This is why laser-cut keys are so expensive, since they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.

It's a good idea to keep at least one spare key in your possession in case you happen to lose your car keys. You can then contact an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can be back in your vehicle without having to pay for it to be tow by the dealer.

Fobs

There's a chance that you don't own an old classic vehicle but your vehicle probably uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to open and start it without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips which need to be programmed in order to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming but it is usually best to have your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are well-versed in your particular car to ensure that the reprogramming is done correctly.

The cost of replacing your car's key fob can be as high as $500, depending on whether it is smart key or remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key that you may want to have in case your fob gets lost or stolen.

It used to be that losing your Cheapest car Key replacement keys was a pain however, it's now a real problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys that useful and reliable that thieves are able to take keys. The advancements in car replacement keys near me key technologies have made it harder for thieves.

The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, but the one that comes with transponder and mechanical keys is the most expensive. The "smart" key features a spring-loaded shank which folds into the fob like an e-switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or tucked in a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and could require the assistance of a dealership to replace.

If you have a spare key fob that can be used in your vehicle and could be duplicated, think about trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a firm such as Amazon or an independent key and lock specialist that can program your automobiles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob for a much lower cost than the price a dealership would charge, saving up to $200 or more. Make sure you buy a fob and a key that is the same model, year and model as your original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.