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 return to the roads.

It is a good plan to purchase a spare key replacements for cars before you lose yours. To make this easier, we have created a list of how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big deal. You could purchase an extra key and then use it in the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace keys that have been lost.

The cheapest method of doing 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 a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start engines.

Modern car keys include transponders or chips which must be programmed in order to function correctly. This is only done by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, for instance an auto locksmith in your area or an expert from a dealership's service department.

The cost of having an electronic key copied is fairly low however programming the chip used 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 crucial to know the type of car key you have before seeking help. A standard, older car key is a double-edged metal lock that you can insert 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 kind of car key is a transponder key with an embedded security chip that sends an electronic signal to the car's computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a basic mechanical key, and can only be copied with special tools that only a locksmith or a dealer in the car industry has access to. It could cost you $500 or more depending on the make and model.

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use microchips inside the key that communicates with your car. When the key is close to your car, or Replacement Car Keys Cost when it is inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code which signals your car to start. This feature is great as it wards off theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car since a burglar would require both the key and the transmitter to turn it on before they could drive off with it.

A transponder key costs slightly more than a regular key but that's only because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with the majority of locksmiths, however 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 may be able to offer you an affordable price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. It is crucial to conduct your research prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able find out which type of key will work with it and whether it requires a remote to unlock it.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder system. They are a little more complex as they require a particular key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, as they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key is duplicated, it won't work with your car.

Whatever type of key you have regardless of the type, it is essential that you do not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself. This can cause alarms to insurance companies and could make mechanics reluctant to assist you particularly if they notice evidence that the car has been tampered with or opened. It is very difficult to get a new key, so you should contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car that has a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's much harder to lose or steal than a traditional key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edge of the blade - instead there's a groove that cuts to a certain depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to distinguish between authentic and fake keys when you look at it from above. The fact that they're so easy to spot also means that you're less likely to risk getting locked out if you misplace your keys while at work or doing for errands.

If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to call an expert locksmith with the equipment to create these kinds of replacements. Most of the time, your local hardware store isn't able to make you an original laser-cut key since they don't have the equipment required to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.

A locksmith will use an apparatus that resembles an ordinary drill to mill the key's metal. This will reduce the entire surface until it is the desired length. The unique code of the key is then extracted from the VIN and the key is then cut according to your vehicle's specifications.

In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys don't have any electronic components or chips inside them that could be replaced, which means they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive due to the complete rebuild of the key.

It's always an excellent idea to have at least one spare key available in case you happen to lose your car key. So you'll be able call the locksmith to cut it and program it for you so that you have access to your car again, without having to pay to have it towed back to the dealership.

Fobs

If you do not own a classic car, chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that allow you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a key. These keys have special 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 better to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the tools needed.

The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced could cost as much as $500, based on the type of key you use and whether it's a smart or remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of a mechanical backup key that you may need in the event the fob goes missing or is stolen.

The loss of your car keys used to be an inconvenience. Now, it's a huge issue. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now take keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in car key technologies have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys come in different sizes and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that comes with an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key within the same fob. The "smart" key comes with an elongated shank that is spring loaded and folds in the fob to form a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or hidden into a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and that can be cloned to work in a different vehicle, you might want to consider ordering a replacement aftermarket from a company such as Amazon or a key and lock specialist that offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for Replacement Car Keys Cost less than a dealership charges and save yourself up to $200 or more. Be sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, model and model as your original so it can be coded to work with your vehicle.