How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It's never pleasant 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 an ideal idea to have a spare. We have compiled a list on the cost to replace keys for cars.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big problem. You could purchase a spare and simply use it in the ignition. However, today's cars are more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace the key that was lost.

An auto locksmith can be the cheapest alternative. They are usually able to duplicate a metal key for less than $50. This type of key does not have a chip, and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start an engine.

This is due to the fact that modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that have to be programmed in order to function properly. This can only be done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like a local locksmith or a car key fobs replacement dealer professional in service.

The cost of having a mechanical key copied is fairly low however programming the chips in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key in your car and store it safely.

It's important to identify the type of car keys you have before contacting a locksmith. A more traditional, older car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your vehicle. They're not as common, but you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for about $10.

The next type is a transponder car key. It has an embedded security microchip that sends a message to the computer in the vehicle to open the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and it can only be copied using special tools that only a locksmith or a dealer in the car industry has access to. It could cost you $500 or more depending on the model and make.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their vehicle. They are equipped with a microchip in the key. When the key is near to your car or when it is inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to start. This feature how.much is a replacement car key beneficial because it deters theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult since a thief will require both the correct key and the transmitter in order to turn on your car and drive away with it.

The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is usually slightly more expensive than a standard key, but only because it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by most locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your dealer about whether they can do it. This is because they often have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys and could be able to provide you with an affordable price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems in place. This is why it is important to research the key options before you purchase your next vehicle. You should be able find out what type of key is compatible with it, and replacement car keys cost whether or not it requires a remote to unlock it.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a password transponder system. They are more complicated as they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, since they utilize rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your keys were copied, it will not work in your car.

Regardless of what type of key you've got regardless of the type, it is essential to never attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they see signs that your car has been opened or tampered with. It will be very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

You'll find a laser-cut key is much more difficult to lose or steal than a metal key. These keys do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a certain depth in the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from the top it's easy to tell whether it's fake or not. They are easy to recognize, so you won't get locked out if your key is lost while doing errands or working.

If you have an uncut laser key, you'll need to talk to a professional locksmith who has the right equipment to make these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit is unlikely to be able provide you with an alternative key that is laser-cut, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

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

In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys don't have any electronic components or chips inside of them that can be replaced, which means that they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive because they require a full reconstruction of the key.

Have at least one spare car key in your possession in case of case. This way, you'll be able to call the locksmith to have it cut and programmed for you so that you'll have access to your car again, without having to pay to get it tow-back at the dealership.

Fobs

You may not own an old classic vehicle however, your car likely utilizes the latest high-tech fobs to open and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that need to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming, but it is generally recommended to let your dealer do it. They have the right tools and are knowledgeable about the specific vehicle you have to ensure that the reprogramming is done right.

The cost of having your car's key fob replaced could cost as high as $500, based on the kind of key you use and whether it's a smart or remote-controlled. This does not include the cost of a mechanical backup key you may need in the event your fob is lost or stolen.

The loss of your car keys used to be an inconvenience. Now it's a serious problem. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal them.

The new keys come in various dimensions and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that includes a transponder and a mechanical key in the same fob. The "smart" key features a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob like a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or hidden in a pocket of a coat. These are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have a spare fob that can be used in your vehicle and can be duplicated, think about trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key company that can program your automobiles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for much cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge which could save you as much as $200 or more. Make sure you purchase the fob and key that has the identical model, year, and model as your original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.