How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of your car key fob replacement keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road fast with Emergency Roadside Service.

Before you lose your key, it is an ideal idea to make a backup. To make it easier we've created a guide on the cost of replacement car keys. cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big deal. You could just purchase a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it is much more expensive to replace keys lost.

The cheapest method of doing this is to hire an auto locksmith. They can usually copy a metal key for less than $50. However, this type of key isn't equipped with chips and will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.

Modern car keys have transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to function properly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they're doing, like an auto locksmith in your area or an expert from a dealership's service department.

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

It's important to identify the type of car keys you have before seeking help. 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 car. They're not as common however, they are available at your local home improvement store for $10.

The second type is the transponder car key. This key has embedded security microchips that sends a message to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be duplicated using specialized tools that are only available to a locksmith or dealer in the car. This can cost up to $500 or more based on the car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their vehicle. They incorporate microchips in the keys. When the key is placed in the ignition or Replacement Car Keys Cost next to your vehicle, it sends an encoded code that allows your car to begin. This is a great feature because it stops theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult since a thief requires both the right key and the transmitter to turn your car on and drive away with it.

The cost of a new transponder key is usually slightly more expensive than a traditional key, but that is because it has to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be capable of programming a transponder key, but it is always best to ask your dealership whether they are able to program it as well. This is because they usually have the most experience with these types of keys and could be able to give you an affordable price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems. It is important to do your research prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able find out which type of key will work with it and whether it requires an unlocking device via a remote.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complex as they require a specific key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, as they employ rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your key was cloned it would not work in your car.

No matter what kind of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital that you never try to open the door of your vehicle yourself. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics will not assist you if they see signs that your vehicle has been opened or damaged. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a replacement keys car key, so contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

A key that has been laser-cut is much harder to steal or lose than a traditional key. These keys have no notches cut along the edges of the blade - instead there's a winding groove which cuts to a specific depth up the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from the top it's easy to determine whether it's fake or not. They are easy to spot, so you won't get locked out of your home if your key gets lost while doing errands or working.

If you own keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to call a locksmith professional who has the necessary equipment to make these kinds of replacements. In most cases the hardware store you visit isn't able to make you a new laser-cut key because they don't have the tools needed to cut and program these kinds of keys.

A locksmith will employ a machine that appears like a standard drill to mill the key's metal, which will be able to cut the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The unique key's code is then extracted from the VIN and the key is cut to the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys differ from traditional transponder keys since they don't contain electronics or chips that can be replaced. They must be destroyed and replaced by a new one. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive since they require a complete rebuild of the key.

Keep a spare car key in your possession just in case. You can then contact a locksmith to have the key cut and Replacement Car Keys Cost programmed so you can get back into your vehicle without having pay for it to be tow to the dealer.

Fobs

There's a chance that you don't have an old classic car, but your car probably utilizes the latest high-tech fobs to unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. The keys contain electronic chips that need to be programmed in order to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming, but it is generally best to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the tools needed.

The cost of getting your car's key fob changed can cost as much as $500, based on the kind of key you use and if it's smart or just remote-controlled. That doesn't include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key you might want to have in case your fob is lost or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car key was a hassle However, now it's a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys that useful and reliable that thieves can take keys. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, but the one that has both a transponder as well as a mechanical key is the most expensive. The "smart" key has an elongated shank that is spring loaded and folds into the fob like an e-switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or hidden in a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the assistance of a dealership to replace.

If you have a spare fob that can be used in your vehicle and can be cloned, consider trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a firm like Amazon or an independent locksmith and key company that can program your automobiles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for much cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge which could save you up to $200 or more. Make sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, make and model as your previous so it can be coded to work with your vehicle.