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 roads.

It is a good idea to buy an extra key before you lose yours. To make this more convenient, we have put together a guide to the cost of replacement car keys. cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big deal. You could just buy a spare key, and use it to turn on the ignition. However, modern automobiles are much more technologically advanced and it is more expensive to replace a lost key.

Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They usually can duplicate a metal key for less than $50. However, this type of key doesn't have a chip and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is because modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that have to be programmed in order to work correctly. This can only by done by a professional who knows what they are doing, like an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.

The cost of mechanical keys is inexpensive, however the programming chip that is used in modern cars can cost more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it in a safe place.

There are five distinct types of car keys available, therefore it is important to identify which one you have prior to receiving assistance in replacing it. An older, standard car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder and then turned to turn on your car. These keys aren't as common however, you should be able find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.

The next type is the transponder car key. It has embedded security microchips which sends a signal to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and is only possible with special tools, which are only available to a locksmith or dealer in the car. The cost for Replacement Car Keys Cost this can be up to $500 or more, based on the make and model of your car.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their vehicle. They use an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is near to your car or when it is inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code which signals your car to start. This is a wonderful feature to have since it discourages theft. However, it makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar will require both the correct key and transmitter to turn on your car and then drive off with it.

A transponder key costs a little bit more than a regular key, but that's only because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by most locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your car dealer if they can do it. This is because they usually have the most experience with these types of keys and could be able to provide you with an affordable price.

A lot of automakers have their own unique anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it is essential to research all the key options prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able find out which type of key works with it and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Certain newer vehicles have a transponder-based password system. These are more complicated because they require special tools to program them. However they are also more secure as they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they're used. This means that if your key were copied, it will not work in your car.

No matter what kind of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital to never attempt to break into your own vehicle yourself. This could raise red flags with insurance companies and will make mechanics reluctant to help you out in the event of evidence that the vehicle has been altered or forced open. It can be extremely difficult to get a new key, so contact a Mesa mobile car key replacement auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much more difficult to take or lose than a metal key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edge of the blade - instead there's a winding groove which cuts to a specific depth across the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from the top, it is easy to identify if it's a fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to spot also means that you can avoid getting locked out if you lose your key while you're working or running around.

If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call locksmiths that have equipment for making these kinds of replacements. In most cases your local hardware store will not be able to make a new laser-cut key because they don't have the equipment required to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.

A locksmith will employ a machine that looks very like a regular drill to mill the metal of the key, which will cut off the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code can be found from the VIN and the key will be cut to meet the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys differ from normal transponder keys because they do not have electronic components or chips that can be replaced. They must be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive because they require a full rebuild of the key.

It's an excellent idea to have at least one spare key available in case you happen to lose your car keys. That way, you'll be able to call the locksmith and cut and program the key for you so that you'll have access to your car again without needing to pay to have it towed 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 to unlock and start it without a traditional key. These keys have special computer chips that must be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Fortunately, some locksmiths can do this reprogramming for you, though it's usually better to have your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and have all the necessary tools.

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

Losing your car key was once a hassle. Now, it's a huge issue. That's because modern cars have made keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal the keys.

These new keys come in various shapes and 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 into the fob like a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or hidden into a coat pocket. These keys are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have an additional fob that works with your vehicle and that can be copied to work with another vehicle, you may think about purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a business like Amazon or a key and lock specialist who can program various vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for much less than a dealership charges and save yourself as much as $200 or more. Be sure to purchase the fob and key that's the identical model, year, and make as your original to ensure it can be programmed for your vehicle.