How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of your car keys is never a pleasant experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road quickly by providing Emergency Roadside Service.

It is a good idea to purchase a spare key before you lose yours. We have compiled a list on the price to replace the car key.

Mechanical Keys

Not long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big problem. You could purchase an extra key and then use it in the ignition. However, modern cars are more technologically advanced and it is more expensive to replace a lost key.

Employing an auto locksmith is the cheapest alternative. They are usually capable of copying a basic metal key for about $50 or less. This kind of key isn't equipped with a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start engines.

Modern car keys include transponders, also known as chips, which must be programmed correctly. This can only by done by a professional that knows what they are doing, for instance an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer service professional.

The cost of mechanical keys is low, but the programming chip in a modern car will usually cost you more than $300. The best way to prevent this is by making sure you have a backup key and that you keep it somewhere secure.

There are five different types of Cheap car key replacement near me keys available, so it's important to know which one you have prior to seeking help to replace it. A more traditional, older car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your car. These aren't common anymore however you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for about $10.

The second type is the transponder car key. It has embedded security microchips that sends a message to the car's computers to unlock 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 specialized tools that only a locksmith or car dealer has access to. The cost of this service can be up to $500 or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use microchips inside the key to connect with your car. When the key is put in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it sends a code to signal your car to start. This feature is great because it stops theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar will require both the correct key and transmitter in order to turn your car on and then drive off with it.

Transponder keys cost slightly more than a regular one, but that's only because it must be programmed. Most locksmiths will be competent to program keys that have transponders, but it is recommended to ask your car dealership whether they are able to program it also. They are the best option because they have the most knowledge of programming these keys and will give you a better rate.

Many automakers have their own distinct anti-theft systems in place. This is why it's essential to research all the key options prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able find out which type of key it is compatible with and whether it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Certain newer vehicles have a transponder-based password system. They are a little more complex as they require a specific key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, cheap car key replacement near me as they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that if your key was duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.

No matter what kind of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital that you do not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics won't help you if they see signs that your car has been forced open or damaged. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a new key, so contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car that has a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's more difficult to lose or steal than a traditional metal key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edge of the blade. Instead there's a groove that cuts to a certain depth across the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to tell the difference between a genuine and fake key when looking at it from above. They are easy to recognize and you won't be locked out if you have your key lost while you're doing errands or working.

If your key is a laser-cut one then you'll have to contact an locksmith who has equipment for these kinds of replacements. Most of the time the hardware store you visit won't be able make an original laser-cut key since they don't have the machinery needed to cut and program these types of key fobs.

A locksmith uses an instrument that appears like a regular drill to cut the key's metal, which will remove the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut to your vehicle's specifications.

Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not have any chips or electronics inside them that could be replaced, which means they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. This is the reason why laser-cut keys can be expensive, as they require a total rebuild of the entire key.

Have at least one spare car key in your possession in case of case of. So, you'll be able to contact the locksmith to have it cut and programmed for you, so that you can have access to your car again without having to pay to have it towed back to the dealership.

Fobs

There's a chance that you don't have an old-fashioned 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 computer chips which need to be programmed in order to work with the car you own. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming on your behalf however it's better to have your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the necessary tools.

The cost of replacing your car's key fob could be as high as $500, depending on whether it's a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include cost of an electronic backup key that you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.

It used to be that losing your car key was an inconvenience However, now it's a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves are able to steal keys. The advances in technology for car keys have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys come in different shapes and sizes, but the most expensive one is one that comes with an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart key" comes with an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds down into the fob, similar to an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to get lost or get tucked away in pockets like a coat. They are generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and could require the assistance of a dealership to replace.

If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be duplicated to work in a different vehicle, you might want to consider ordering a replacement car key fobs aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who can program various vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob at a much lower cost than what a dealership would charge, saving up to $200 or more. Just make sure the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, make and model as the original to ensure it is programmed to work with your vehicle.