How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

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

When you lose your key it is recommended to have a spare made. We have compiled a list on the price to replace the car key.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't too long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge deal. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it's much more costly to replace keys that have been lost.

The cheapest way to do this is to employ an auto locksmith. They usually can duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. This type of key isn't equipped with chip and won't be able to unlock doors or start an engine.

This is because modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed in order to work correctly. This can only be done by a professional who understands what they're doing, such as a local locksmith or even an auto dealership service professional.

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

There are five different types of car keys, so it's important to know which one you have prior to receiving assistance in replacing it. A more traditional, older car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder, and turned to turn on your car. These keys aren't as common however, they are available at your local home improvement store for about $10.

The second type of car key is a transponder key with an embedded security chip that sends an alert to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate than a basic mechanical key, and is only possible to copy it using special tools that only a locksmith or a dealer can access. It could cost you $500 or more based on the car's make and model.

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use a microchip inside of the key that communicates with your car. When the key is inserted in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it transmits an encoded code that allows your car to begin. This is a wonderful feature to have as it deters theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car, because a burglar will need both the key and transmitter to turn it on and take off with it.

Transponder keys cost a little bit more than a regular key, but that's only because it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by many locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your car dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best choice since they have the most knowledge of programming these keys, and they can give you a better rate.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems in place. It is essential to conduct your research prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able find out what type of key will work with it and if it requires a remote to unlock it.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complex as they require specialized tools to program them. However they are also more secure because they employ rolling code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key has been duplicated, it won't work with your vehicle.

It is important that you don't attempt to break into your car on your own, no matter the kind of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies and could make mechanics reluctant to assist you in the event of evidence that the car has been tampered with or opened. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a replacement key, so contact an Mesa mobile car key replacement near me auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car that has a laser cut key, you'll find that it's a lot harder to lose or get stolen than a conventional metal key. These keys have no notches cut along the edge of the blade. Instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a set depth across the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to distinguish between genuine and fake keys when you look at it from the top. They are easy to identify and you won't be locked out of your home if your key gets lost while you're working or running errands.

If your key is a laser-cut one, you'll need to contact locksmiths that have equipment for these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases your local hardware store isn't able to create a new laser-cut key because they don't have the machinery needed to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.

A locksmith uses an instrument that appears like a standard drill to cut the key's metal, which will be able to cut the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The key's unique code can be found from the VIN and the key will then be cut to meet the specifications of your car.

Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not have any electronic components or chips inside them that could be replaced, which means that they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive because they require a complete rebuild of the key.

It's a good idea to keep at least one spare key on hand in case you do accidentally lose your car key. That way you'll be able call the locksmith and mobile Car key replacement Near Me cut and program the key for you so that you'll gain access to your vehicle without having to pay to get it tow-back at the dealership.

Fobs

You might not own an old classic vehicle however, your car likely has one of the most modern high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without a traditional key. These keys come with electronic chips that have to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Fortunately, some locksmiths can perform this reprogramming on your behalf, though it's usually recommended to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the necessary tools.

The cost of replacing your car's key fob could be as high as $500, depending on whether it's an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. That doesn't include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key that you may wish to have in the event your fob is lost or stolen.

The loss of your car keys was once a source of frustration. Now it's a serious issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern automobiles have made keys that easy to use and strong that thieves are able to take keys. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal the keys.

The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the one that comes with a transponder as well as mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart key" features an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds down into the fob, like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or hidden in pockets like a coat. These keys are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be copied to work in a different vehicle, you may think about purchasing a replacement car keys with chips aftermarket from a company such as Amazon or a key and lock specialist who offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob for an affordable price compared to what a dealer would charge, saving up to $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a key and fob that's the same model, year and model as your original to ensure that it can be programmed for your vehicle.