How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road fast by providing Emergency Roadside Service.

Before you lose your key, it is a good idea to have a spare made. To make this more convenient we've created a list of the cost of replacement car keys. cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge deal. You could buy an extra and put it in the ignition. However, today's cars are more technologically advanced and it is more expensive to replace the key that was lost.

The cheapest way to do this is to hire an auto locksmith. They are usually able to duplicate a metal key for less than $50. This kind of key does not have chip and will not be able unlock doors or start an engine.

This is because modern automobile keys are equipped with transponders or chips that have to be programmed in order to function properly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who understands what they're doing, like a local locksmith or even an auto dealership service professional.

The cost to have a mechanical key copied is relatively low, but the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to ensure that you have a backup key, and keep it somewhere secure.

It's important to identify the kind of car key you have before seeking help. A standard, older car key is a double-edged lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. These keys aren't as common, but you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The second type of car key is the transponder that has an embedded security chip that sends an alert to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate than a basic mechanical key, and it can only be copied using specific tools that only a locksmith or dealer in the car industry has access to. The cost for this can be as high as $500 or more, based on the model and make of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their car. They use an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is placed into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it transmits a code to signal your car to start. This is an excellent feature to have as it helps to prevent theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar will need both the correct key and the transmitter in order to start your car and then drive off with it.

A transponder key costs slightly more than a regular key, but that's only because it needs to 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. They are the best option since they have the most experience in programming these keys, and they can offer you a better price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it's important to research the key options prior to buying your next car. You should be able find out which type of key will work with it and if it requires a remote to unlock it.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a password transponder system. These are more complex as they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, because they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that if your key was copied, it will not work in your car.

Regardless of what type of key you've got, it is crucial that you never try to open the door of your car yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies. Many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they see signs that your vehicle has been forced open or tampered with. This can make it very difficult to obtain replacement car keys with chips parts, so be certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

A key that has been laser-cut is much more difficult to steal or lose than a traditional key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that is cut to a specific depth along the key's face. This makes it very easy to distinguish between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from above. They are easy to identify and will not get locked out if you have your key lost while you're working or running errands.

If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call a locksmith that has specialized equipment for making these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to make you a laser-cut replacement key, as they lack the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

Locksmiths use an apparatus that looks like a standard drill in order to mill the metal of the key. This will cut the entire surface until it is the desired length. The unique key's code is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys differ from normal transponder keys because they do not contain any electronics or chips which can be altered. They have to be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive since they require a complete rebuild of the key.

Keep a spare car key in your car just in case of. This way, you'll be able to contact the locksmith near me car key replacement to have it cut and programmed for you, so that you'll gain access to your vehicle again, without having to pay to get it tow-back by the dealership.

Fobs

If you don't own a classic car, chances are your vehicle uses one of the most advanced high-tech fobs which allow you to unlock and start the car without having a key. The keys contain computer chips that must be programmed to work with the vehicle you own. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming but it is usually recommended to let your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the tools needed.

The cost of replacing your car key fob could be up to $500 based on whether it's a smart key or Replacement Car Keys Cost a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key you might wish to have in the event your fob gets lost or stolen.

Losing your car key was once a source of frustration. It's now a major problem. That's because modern cars have made the keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in the technology of car keys have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in different dimensions and shapes, but the one with transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart key" features an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds up into the fob, like an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to get lost or get tucked away in the pocket of a coat. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be copied to work in another vehicle, you may want to consider ordering a replacement aftermarket from a business like Amazon or a key and lock specialist that offers programming for many different vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for much less than what a dealer charges, saving yourself as much as $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a key and fob that is the identical model, year, and make as your original to ensure it can be programmed for your vehicle.