How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of your car keys is never a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.

It is a good idea to buy a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. We have put together a guide on the price to replace the car key.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, losing or losing keys to your car was not a big issue. You could purchase a spare and simply use it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and it's much more expensive to replace keys lost.

Employing an auto locksmith is the cheapest option. They will usually be capable of copying a basic metal key and do so for about $50 or less. This type of key does not have a chip, and replacement car keys cost therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start engines.

This is due to the fact that modern car keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed to function correctly. This can only be done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.

The cost to have an electronic key copied is relatively low however, the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is by making sure you have a backup key and that you keep it somewhere safe.

There are five kinds of car keys, therefore it is important to identify which one you have prior to getting help with replacing it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. These keys aren't as common however, you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for about $10.

The next type of car key is the transponder with an embedded security chip that transmits a signal to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and allow the engine to start. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and can only be done with specialized tools that are only available to a locksmith or dealer of cars. The cost for this can be up to $500 or more, based on the model and make of your car.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their car. They are equipped with an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is close to your car, or inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code which signals your car to begin. This is a great feature to have as it deters theft. However, it makes stealing your car more difficult as a burglar will need both the correct key and transmitter to turn your car on and take it away.

A transponder key is a little bit more than a regular key however, it's because it must be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be competent to program keys that have transponders, but it is recommended to ask your dealership whether they are able to program it also. They are the best choice because they have the most knowledge of programming these keys, Replacement Car Keys Cost and they can give you a better rate.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems in place. This is why it is essential to research all the key options prior to buying your next car. You should be able find out what type of key will work 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. They are a little more complex as they require a special key tool to program them. However, they are more secure because they employ rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they're used. This means that even if your key has been duplicated, it won't work with your vehicle.

Regardless of what type of key you've got, it is crucial that you never try to open the door of your vehicle yourself. This can cause alarms to insurance companies and will make mechanics reluctant to help you out, especially if they see indications that your vehicle has been damaged or forced open. This could make it difficult to obtain replacement parts, so be sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll find that it's a lot harder to lose or be stolen than a conventional metal key. The keys don't have a notch along the edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a particular depth in the middle of the face of the key. This makes it easy to tell the difference between a genuine and fake key when looking at it from above. They are easy to spot and will not get 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 to make these types of replacements. In most cases, your local hardware store won't be able create an original laser-cut key since they don't have the equipment needed to cut and program these kinds of keys.

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

Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys don't have any chips or electronics inside them that could be replaced, so they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. This is why laser-cut keys can be expensive, since they require a total rebuild of the entire key.

It's a good idea to keep at least one spare key in your possession in case you do accidentally lose your car key. So, you'll be able to call the locksmith to cut it and program it for you so that you'll gain access to your vehicle again, without having to pay to have it tow back to the dealership.

Fobs

You might not have an old classic car, but your car probably has one of the most modern high-tech fobs that can unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys have special electronic chips that have to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able to assist you in this process however it's recommended to let your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the necessary tools.

Getting your car key fob replaced can cost as much as $500, based on the kind of key you use and whether it's remote-controlled or smart. This doesn't include the cost of a mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car key was a hassle however, it's now a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys that easy to use and strong that thieves can take keys. The advancements in the technology of cheap car keys replacement keys have made it more difficult for thieves.

The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, but the one that has both a transponder as well as mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob like an e-switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or hidden into a coat pocket. These are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have a spare fob that is in your car and can be duplicated, think about trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement key for car cost from a business such as Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key company that can program your vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for much less than a dealership charges, saving yourself up to $200 or more. Just make sure the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, make and model as the original so it can be coded to work with your car.