How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road fast by providing Emergency Roadside Service.

Before you lose your key it is a good idea to have a spare made. To make this more convenient we have created a list of 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 purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace lost keys.

The most affordable method to accomplish this is to employ an auto locksmith. They usually can duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. This type of key does not have a chip, and will not be able unlock doors or start engines.

Modern car keys come with transponders, also known as chips, which must be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only be done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, for instance the local locksmith or car dealer professional in service.

The cost of having an electronic key copied is relatively cheap however programming the chip in modern cars will typically cost more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it safe.

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

The next type of car key is the transponder key that has an embedded security chip that sends an alert to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and allow the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a standard mechanical key, and it can only be copied with specialized tools that only a locksmith or dealer can access. The cost for this can be as high as $500 or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their car. They use an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is near to your car, or placed in the ignition, it sends an electronic code that tells your car to begin. This feature is beneficial as it wards off theft. However, it also makes stealing your car more difficult since a thief will require both the correct key and transmitter to start your car and drive away with it.

The cost of a brand new transponder key is typically slightly more expensive than a standard key, but only because it needs to be programmed as well. It is possible to program a transponder key by many locksmiths, but you should always ask your car key cover replacement dealer if they can do it. This is because they often have the most experience with these kinds of keys and could be able to give you the most competitive price.

Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. It is important to do your research prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which type of key is compatible with it and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder. They are a little more complicated as they require a specific key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, because they employ rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that if your key was duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.

Regardless of what type of key you have regardless of the type, it is essential that you do not attempt to break into your own vehicle by yourself. This can cause alarms to insurance companies and cause many mechanics to refuse to help you out, especially if they see signs that the vehicle has been altered or forced open. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a new key, so contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

You'll find a laser-cut key is much more difficult to steal or lose than a traditional key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they have a groove that's cut to a specific depth on the face of the key. This makes it easy to differentiate between authentic and fake keys when looking at it from above. They are easy to recognize and you won't be locked out of your home if your key gets lost while you're doing errands or working.

If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you will need to contact a locksmith professional who has the necessary equipment to create these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases, your local hardware store won't be able make you a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the tools required to cut and program these kinds of keys.

A locksmith uses a machine that appears like a regular drill to mill the key's metal, which will remove the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code can be extracted from the VIN and the key will then be cut to match the specifications of your car.

Laser-cut keys differ from traditional transponder keys since they don't contain electronic chips or electronics which can be altered. They must be destroyed and replaced with a new one. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are expensive, as they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.

It's always a good idea to keep at least one spare key on hand in the event that you accidentally lose your car keys. This way you'll be able call the locksmith and cut it and program it for you so that you can gain access to your vehicle again, without needing to pay to have it tow back at the dealership.

Fobs

Unless you own an old classic car, chances are your vehicle uses one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that allow you to unlock and start your car without a key. These keys contain special computer chips that must be programmed to function with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to assist you in this process, though it's usually recommended to let your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and have all the necessary tools.

The cost of having your car's key fob replaced can cost as high as $500, based on the type of key you use and Replacement Car Keys Cost whether it's a smart or remote-controlled. That doesn't include the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.

The loss of your car keys was once a source of frustration. Now it's a serious problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern automobiles have made keys that easy to use and Replacement Car Keys Cost strong that thieves can steal keys. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal them.

The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, however the one that has both a transponder as well as mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart key" features an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob, similar to a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or get tucked away in a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the help of a dealer to replace.

If you have a spare fob that works in your vehicle and could be duplicated, think about trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a firm such as Amazon or an independent locksmith and key company that can program your automobiles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for much less than a dealership charges which could save you up to $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 to ensure it is programmed to work with your car.