How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

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

It is a good idea to order an extra key before you lose yours. To make this easier we have created a list of the cost of replacement car keys. cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, losing or losing keys to your car was not a big deal. You could buy a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and it's much more costly to replace keys that have been lost.

Employing an auto locksmith is the cheapest alternative. They'll usually be capable of copying a standard metal key and do so for around $50 or less. This kind of key isn't equipped with chip and will not be able unlock doors or start an engine.

This is because modern car keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to work correctly. This can only be done by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, for instance the local locksmith or a car dealership service professional.

The cost to get a mechanical key copied is fairly low however, the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is by making sure you have a backup key, and keep it in a safe place.

It is important to determine the type of car keys you own before seeking assistance. 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 vehicle. They're not as common, but they are available at your local home improvement store for around $10.

The next kind of car key is the transponder that has an embedded security chip that sends an alert to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and enable the engine to start. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and is only possible with specialized tools, which are only accessible to a locksmith or car dealer. It could cost you $500 or more depending on your car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their vehicle. They use microchips in the keys. When the key is placed into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it transmits an encoded code that allows your car to start. This feature is beneficial because it stops theft. However, it makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar will require both the correct key and transmitter to start your car key replacements and take it away.

A transponder key is slightly more than a regular one, however, this is because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with most locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your dealer about whether they can do it. This is because they often have the most experience with these kinds of keys, and may be able to give you the most competitive price.

A lot of automakers have their own distinct anti-theft mechanisms in place. It is important to do your research prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able find out which kind of key works with it, and whether or not it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.

Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder-based password system. These are a bit more complex as they require a special key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, because they use rolling-code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that if your key was copied, it will not work in your car.

It is essential that you do not try to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the type of key. This can raise alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics won't help you if they observe signs that your vehicle was opened or tampered with. This can make it very hard to get an exchange, so make certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much more difficult to steal or lose than a traditional key. The keys don't have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a particular depth along the face of the key. This makes it easy to differentiate between authentic and fake keys when you look at it from the top. The fact that they're so easy to identify also means that you can avoid being locked out in the event that you happen to misplace your key while you're at work or running for errands.

If you own a laser-cut key, then you'll need to call an expert locksmith with the equipment to make these kinds of replacements. In most cases your local hardware store isn't able to make a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the tools required to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.

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

In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys don't have any chips or electronics inside of them that can be replaced, so they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive due to the full reconstruction of the key.

It's an excellent idea to have at least one spare key in your possession in case you do accidentally lose your car key. You can then call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so that 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 however, your car likely has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to open and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys have special computer chips that must be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming but it is generally best to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the tools needed.

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

Losing your car key used to be an inconvenience. Now, it's a huge issue. That's because modern cars have made the keys so easy and reliable that thieves are now able to steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in car key technologies have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, however the one with transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. The "smart" key comes with an elongated shank that is spring loaded and can fold into the fob in the same way as a switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or tucked in a coat pocket. These are typically pricier than standard remote-controlled fobs, Replacement Car Keys and could require the assistance of a dealership to replace.

If you have a spare fob that is in your vehicle and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a business such as Amazon or an independent locksmith and key company that offers programming for many automobiles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for less than what a dealer charges which could save you up to $200 or more. Make sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, model and model as your previous so that it can be programmed to work with your car.