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 get back on the roads.

When you lose your key, it is recommended to make a backup. To make this easier, we have created a guide on the cost of replacement car keys. cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge problem. You could buy a spare key, and use it to turn on the ignition. However, modern automobiles are much more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace the key that was lost.

An auto locksmith can be the cheapest option. They are usually capable of copying a basic metal key for around $50 or less. This kind of key does not have a chip, and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start engines.

This is due to the fact that modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that have to be programmed in order to work correctly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who knows what they're doing, for instance the local locksmith or a car dealership service professional.

The cost to get a mechanical key copied is relatively low however programming the chips in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to ensure that you have a backup key and keep it somewhere safe.

It's important to identify the type of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged metal lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. These keys aren't as common however, you can find them at your local home improvement store for about $10.

The second type of car key is a transponder key, which has an embedded security chip that sends an electronic signal to the car'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 special tools that are only accessible to a locksmith or dealer of cars. This can cost up to $500 or more based on the car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use an embedded microchip in the key to connect with your car. When the key is inserted in the ignition or cost of replacement car key close to your vehicle, it transmits a code to signal your car to start. This feature is great because it deters theft. But, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar will require both the correct key car replacement and the transmitter in order to turn on your car and take it away.

Transponder keys cost of replacement Car Key a little bit more than a regular key however, it's because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with the majority of locksmiths, however it is best to inquire with your dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best option since they have the most expertise in programming these keys and will offer you a better price.

Many automotive manufacturers have their own unique anti-theft mechanisms in place. It is crucial to conduct your research prior to buying your next car. You will be able to figure out what type of key works with it and if it requires a remote to unlock it.

Certain newer vehicles have transponder password systems. These are more complex as they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, as they use rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your key was duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.

No matter what kind of key you've got regardless of what type, Cost Of Replacement Car Key it is vital that you do not attempt to open the door of your vehicle by yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics won't help you if they see signs that your car has been forced open or damaged. This can make it very difficult to obtain an exchange, so make sure to speak with an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a vehicle with a laser-cut key, you'll notice that it's more difficult to lose or get stolen than a traditional metal key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edge of the blade. Instead there's a groove that cuts to a certain depth up the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to distinguish between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from above. The fact that they're so easy to recognize also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out in the event that you lose your key while you're at work or doing around.

If your key is laser-cut, you'll need to contact an locksmith who has equipment to make these types of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to provide you with a laser-cut replacement key, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith will employ an apparatus that resembles a standard drill in order to mill the key's metal. This will remove the entire surface to the desired length. The key's unique code can be found from the VIN and the key will then be cut to match the specifications of your car.

Laser-cut keys differ from regular transponder key because they do not have electronic chips or electronics which can be altered. They must be destroyed and replaced with a new one. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive due to the full reconstruction of the key.

Keep at least one spare car key in your possession in case of case. You can then contact a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed, so you can get back into your vehicle without having pay for it to be tow by the dealer.

Fobs

If you do not own a classic car, the chances are your vehicle uses one of the latest high-tech fobs that allow you to open and start your car without having a key. These keys contain special computer chips which need to be programmed in order to function with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming, but it's recommended to let your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and have all the necessary tools.

The cost of replacing your car key fob could be as high as $500, depending on whether it is an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of an electronic backup key that you may need in the event the fob goes missing or is stolen.

It used to be that losing your car key was a hassle However, now it's an actual issue. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now take them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in technology for car keys have made it more difficult for thieves.

The new keys are available in various dimensions and shapes, but the one that has both transponder and mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart key" comes with an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds up into the fob, like an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to be lost or get tucked away in the pocket of a coat. They're generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and could require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have an additional fob that works with your vehicle and can be cloned to work in a different vehicle, you may want to consider ordering a replacement aftermarket from a company such as Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who offers programming for many different vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for less than what a dealer charges and save yourself as much as $200 or more. Be sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as your previous so it can be coded to work with your car.