How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

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

It is a good idea to order a spare key before you lose yours. To make this more convenient we have created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, losing or losing keys to your car was not a big problem. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it's much more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.

Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They are usually able to duplicate a metal key for less than $50. This kind of key isn't equipped with a chip, and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start engines.

Modern car keys include transponders, or chips, which must be programmed to work correctly. This is only done by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, such as a local locksmith or even an auto dealership service professional.

The cost to get an electronic key copied is relatively low, but the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key on hand and store it safely.

It's important to identify the kind of car key you have before seeking help. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. They're not as common, but you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for $10.

The second type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with embedded security microchips which sends a signal to the car's computers to unlock the doors and start the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate than a basic mechanical key, and it can only be copied using special tools that only a locksmith or car dealer has access to. The cost of this service can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your car.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys have a microchip inside of the key to communicate with your car. When the key is inserted in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is a great feature because it stops theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car as a thief would need both the key and transmitter to turn it off and drive off with it.

The cost of a brand new transponder keys is typically slightly more expensive than a conventional key, Replacement Car Keys Cost but only because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by the majority of locksmiths, however you should always ask your car dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best choice as they have the best knowledge of programming these keys, Replacement Car Keys Cost and they can give you a better rate.

Many automotive manufacturers have their own unique anti-theft strategies in place. It is important to do your research before purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which type of key is compatible with it and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Certain newer vehicles have a transponder-based password system. They are a little more complicated as they require a special key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, as they employ rolling-code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that if your key was cloned it would not work in your car.

Whatever type of key you have, it is crucial that you do not attempt to break into your own vehicle by yourself. This could be a red flag to insurance companies and make mechanics reluctant to assist you, especially if they see indications that your vehicle has been altered or opened. It can be extremely difficult to get a new key, so make sure you contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll see that it's much harder to lose or be stolen than a traditional metal key. These keys have no notches cut along the edges of the blade. Instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a certain depth across the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from above, it is easy to determine if it's a fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to identify also means that you're not at risk of being locked out if you lose your key while you're at work or doing errands.

If your key is laser-cut you'll need to call an locksmith who has equipment for these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store isn't likely to create a laser-cut replacement key, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith will employ an apparatus that resembles a standard drill in order to mill the key's metal. This will cut the entire surface to the desired length. The key's unique code can be extracted from the VIN, and the key will then be cut to meet the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys are different from a normal transponder keys because they don't contain electronic components or chips that can be replaced. They have to be destroyed and replaced with a new one. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive because they require a complete rebuild of the key.

Have at least one spare car key in your car just in case. You can then call an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can reenter your vehicle without having pay for it to be tow to the dealer.

Fobs

If you do not own a classic car, chances that your car is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start your car without a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to work with the car you own. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming, however it is usually recommended to let your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are familiar with your specific car, which can ensure it's done right.

The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced can cost as high as $500, depending on the type of key you use and whether it's remote-controlled or smart. This doesn't include the cost of a mechanical backup key you may want in case your fob gets lost or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car key was a pain, but now it's a real problem. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so easy and reliable that thieves are now able to steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal them.

The new keys come in a variety of dimensions and shapes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that includes a transponder and a mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart key" has a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob like the switchblade, making it less likely to be lost or tucked inside a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the assistance of a dealership to replace.

If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and that can be cloned to work with another vehicle, you might think about purchasing an aftermarket cheapest replacement car keys from a company such as Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who can program various vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges which could save you as much as $200 or more. Just make sure the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, make and model as your previous to ensure it is programmed to work with your car.