How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of keys to your car is not a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.

It is a good plan to buy an extra key before you lose yours. We have compiled a list on the cost to replace keys for cars.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big deal. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. However, modern cars are more technologically advanced and it is more expensive to replace the key that was lost.

The cheapest method of doing this is to get an auto locksmith. They can usually copy a metal key for less than $50. However, this kind of key doesn't have chips and cost of replacement car key isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is due to the fact that modern car keys are equipped with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed to work properly. This can only be done by a professional that knows what they are doing, like a local locksmith or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.

The cost to get a mechanical key copied is relatively low, but the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it safe.

It's important to identify the type of car keys you own before seeking assistance. A standard, older car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. These keys aren't as common however you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The next type of car key is the transponder key, which has an embedded security chip that sends an alert to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and cost Of replacement car key enable the engine to start. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and is only possible with specialized tools, which are only available to a locksmith or car dealer. It can cost of replacement car key as high as $500 or more based on your car's make and model.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their vehicle. They are equipped with a microchip in the key. When the key is placed in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it sends an encoded code that allows your car to begin. This feature is great because it deters theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult since a thief will require both the correct key and transmitter in order to turn your car on and then drive off with it.

The cost of a brand new transponder key is usually slightly more expensive than a standard key, but this is due to the fact that it needs to be programmed as well. Most locksmiths will be able to program the transponder key, however it is best to inquire with your car dealer if they can do so as well. They are the best option as they have the best experience in programming these keys, and they can give you a better rate.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems in place. It is crucial to conduct your research before purchasing your next car. You should be able find out which type of key is compatible with it and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder system. They are a little more complicated as they require a special key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, since they use rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key has been duplicated, it won't work with your car.

It is important that you don't attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the type of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will refuse to assist you if they observe signs that your car was opened or altered. This will make it extremely difficult to obtain an exchange, so make certain to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much more difficult to lose or steal than a key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edge of the blade. Instead there's a winding groove that cuts to a certain depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to differentiate between a genuine and fake key when you look at it from the top. The fact that they're so easy to spot also means that you can avoid getting locked out if you misplace your keys while at work or running errands.

If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to call an expert locksmith who has the necessary equipment to make these types of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to make you a laser-cut replacement key, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith will employ an instrument that appears similar to 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 unique code of the key is then extracted from the VIN and the key is then cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys are not like normal transponder keys because they do not have electronic chips or electronics that can be replaced. They have to be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. This is why laser-cut keys can be expensive, as 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 happen to lose your car keys. So you'll be able call the locksmith and cut it and program it for you so that you have access to your car again, without having to pay to get it towed back to the dealership.

Fobs

There's a chance that you don't have an old-fashioned car replacement keys but your vehicle probably utilizes the latest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips which need to be programmed in order to function with the vehicle you own. There are locksmiths who can do this reprogramming for you however it's best to have your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and have all the necessary tools.

The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced could cost up to $500, depending on the type of key you drive and whether it's smart or just remote-controlled. That doesn't include the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key you might want to have in case your fob is lost or stolen.

Losing your car key was once a source of frustration. Now, it's a huge problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern cars have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves are able to take them. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, however the one that comes with transponder and mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart key" has a spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob, like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or get tucked away in the pocket of a coat. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have a spare fob that can be used in your car and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a firm such as Amazon or an independent locksmith and key specialist that can program your vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob for less than what a dealer would charge, costing as little as $200 or more. Just make sure the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, make and model as your original so that it can be programmed to work with your vehicle.