How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing keys to your car is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the roads.

When you lose your key it is an ideal idea to make a backup. To make this easier, we have created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big issue. You could purchase an extra key and then use it in the ignition. However, modern automobiles are much more advanced in technology and it is more expensive to replace the key that was lost car key replacement near me.

The most affordable method to accomplish this is to hire an Auto Car Key Replacement Near Me locksmith. They will usually be capable of copying a standard metal key and do so for around $50 or less. This type of key doesn't have a chip, and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start an engine.

Modern car keys include transponders, also known as chips, that need to be programmed correctly. This is only done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, for Auto Car Key Replacement Near Me instance an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional in service.

The cost to get a mechanical key copied is relatively 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 kind of car replacement key near me key you own before seeking assistance. A standard, older car key is a double-edged lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. These keys aren't as common however they are available at your local home improvement store for around $10.

The next type is the transponder car key. This key has an embedded security microchip which sends a signal to the car's computers to open the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key, and is only possible to copy it using special tools that only a locksmith or a car dealer has access to. It could cost you $500 or more, depending on the car's make and model.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize microchips inside the key to communicate with your car. When the key is placed in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is a wonderful feature to have as it helps to prevent theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult since a thief requires both the right key and the transmitter in order to turn your car on and then drive off with it.

A transponder key costs just a bit more than a regular key but that's only because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by many locksmiths, but you should always ask your car dealer if they can do it. This is because they usually have the most experience with these types of keys, and may be able to offer you a more competitive price.

A lot of automakers have their own unique anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it's important to research the key options prior to buying your next car. You should be able find out which type of key it is compatible with and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder password system. They are a little more complicated because they require a specific key tool to program them. However they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that even if the key is copied, it will not work with your vehicle.

Regardless of what type of key you've got, it is crucial that you never try to break into your own vehicle by yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they notice indications that your car has been forced open or damaged. This can make it very hard to get a replacement, so be sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

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 be stolen than a traditional key made of metal. These keys have no notches cut along the edges of the blade. Instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a set depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from above it's easy to identify if it's a fake or not. They are easy to spot 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 an uncut laser key, you will need to contact an expert locksmith with the equipment to make these types of replacements. Most of the time, your local hardware store isn't able to make a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the machinery required to cut and program these types of keys.

A locksmith uses a machine that looks very like a standard drill to cut the metal of the key, which will remove the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique key's code is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is cut to your vehicle's specifications.

Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys don't have any electronics or chips inside that can be replaced, which means that they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. This is why laser-cut keys can be expensive, since they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.

Keep a 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 to pay for it to be towed back to 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 the vehicle without the need for a key. These keys have special electronic chips that have to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. There are locksmiths who can do this reprogramming for you but it's generally best to have 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 up to $500 based on whether it is an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. This does not include the cost of a mechanical backup key you may need in the event your fob gets lost or stolen.

Losing your car key was once a hassle. Now, it's a huge problem. That's because modern cars have made keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now take keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in technology for car keys have made it more difficult for thieves.

The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, however the one that comes with transponder and mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart key" has an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds into the fob, like an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to be lost or hidden in the pocket of a coat. These are typically pricier than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the help of a dealer to replace.

If you have a spare key fob that is in your car and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key specialist which offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob for a much lower cost than what a dealer will charge, saving up to $200 or more. Be sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, make and model as your original to ensure it is programmed to work with your car.