How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

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

When you lose your key it is a good idea to have a spare made. We have compiled a guide on the cost to replace a car key.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big deal. You could just buy a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. Today, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and it's more costly to replace lost keys.

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

Modern car keys include transponders, also known as chips, Replacement keys Car that must be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who understands what they're doing, such as an auto locksmith in your area or an auto dealership service professional.

The cost of mechanical keys is inexpensive, however the programming chip used in the latest cars will typically cost you more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it safe.

It's crucial to know the type of car key replacement keys you have before seeking help. An older, standard car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder, and turned to turn on your car. Keys like these aren't as popular, but you can find them at your local home improvement store for $10.

The next type of car key is the transponder that has an embedded security chip that sends an electronic signal to the car's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be duplicated using specific tools that are available to a locksmith or dealer of cars. The cost for this could 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 connect with their car. They use a microchip in the key. When the key is put in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it sends a code to signal your car to begin. This is a great feature because it deters theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car since a burglar would require both the key and transmitter to turn it on before they could drive off with it.

The cost of a new transponder keys is typically higher than a traditional key, but only because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with many locksmiths, but you should always ask your dealer if they are able to do it. This is because they usually have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys and could be able to give you a more competitive price.

Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft systems. It is crucial to conduct your research prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able find out which kind of key is compatible with it and whether it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a password transponder system. These are a bit more complex as they require a special 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 were copied, it will not work in your car.

It is crucial to not attempt to break into your car on your own, no matter the kind of key. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will refuse to assist you if they observe signs that your car has been forced open or tampered with. It will be very difficult to obtain a new key, so contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you own a car with a laser-cut key, you'll find that it's more difficult to lose or steal than a traditional key made of metal. These keys have no notches cut along the edges of the blade. Instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a set depth across the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from above, it is easy to tell if it's a fake or not. They are easy to recognize and will not get locked out if you have your key lost while doing errands or working.

If you have an uncut laser key, you'll need to talk to a professional locksmith who has the right equipment to make these types of replacements. In the majority of cases your local hardware store isn't able to make you a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the equipment required to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.

A locksmith will use an instrument that resembles an ordinary drill to cut the metal of the key. This will cut all the surface to the desired length. The unique key's code is then obtained from the VIN and the key is cut to your vehicle's specifications.

Laser-cut keys are different from a normal transponder keys because they don't contain electronics or chips which can be altered. They must be destroyed and replaced by the new model. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive due to the full reconstruction of the key.

It's always a good idea to keep at least one spare key available in case you do accidentally lose your car key. Then, you can call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed, so you can reenter your vehicle without having to pay for it to be towed to the dealer.

Fobs

You might not have an old-fashioned car, but your car probably has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to open and start it without a traditional key. These keys have special computer chips that must be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Fortunately, some locksmiths can perform this reprogramming on your behalf however it's best to have your dealer do it. They have the right tools and are well-versed in the specific vehicle you have and can ensure that it's done right.

The cost of replacing your car's key fob can be as high as $500 depending on whether it is a smart key or a remote-controlled key. That's not even including the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key you might wish to have in the event your key fob goes missing or stolen.

The loss of your car key was once a source of frustration. Now it's a serious problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern cars have made keys so convenient and powerful that thieves can take keys. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal them.

These new keys come in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that includes an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key within the same fob. The "smart" key features a spring-loaded shank which folds into the fob like the switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or tucked into a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the help of a dealership to replace.

If you have a spare key fob that can be used in your car and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement Keys car from a company such as Amazon or an independent locksmith and key company that offers programming for many vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob for a much lower cost than the price a dealership will charge, thereby which could save you $200 or more. Just make sure the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as your original so it can be coded to work with your car.