How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road quickly with Emergency Roadside Service.

It is a good idea to order a spare key before you lose yours. To make this easier we've created a guide on the cost of replacement car key fob car keys. cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge problem. You could just buy a spare key, and use it to turn on the ignition. Today, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and it's more expensive to replace lost keys.

The most affordable method to accomplish this is to hire an auto locksmith. They usually can duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. However, this type of key doesn't come with chips and won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

Modern car keys come with transponders, also known as chips, that need to be programmed in order to function properly. This is only done by a professional who knows what they're doing, such as a local locksmith or even a car dealership service professional.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively low, but the programming chip used in the latest cars will typically cost more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key and store it safely.

It's important to identify the kind of car key you have before seeking help. A more traditional, older car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and then turned to start your car. They're not as common however you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for $10.

The second type of car key is the transponder that has an embedded security chip that sends a signal to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and allow the engine to start. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key, and is only possible with specific tools that are accessible to a locksmith car dealer. The cost for this could be up to $500 or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their vehicle. They incorporate microchips in the keys. 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 feature is great as it wards off theft. However, it makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar requires both the right key and Replacement Car Keys Cost the transmitter in order to turn your car on and drive away with it.

Transponder keys cost a little bit more than a regular key however, this is because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by most locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your dealer if they can do it. They are the best choice since they have the most expertise in programming these keys and will give you a better rate.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft strategies in place. It is important to do your research before purchasing your next car. You should be able find out which type of key it is compatible with and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Some newer vehicles come with a transponder password system. These are more complicated because they require specialized tools to program them. However they are also more secure since they use rolling code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that if your key were copied, it will not work in your car.

Whatever type of key you have regardless of the type, it is essential that you never try to open the door of your vehicle by yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies. Many mechanics won't help you if they see indications that your car was opened or tampered with. This will make it extremely hard to get a replacement, so be certain to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you own a car that has a laser cut key, you'll find that it's more difficult to lose or get stolen than a conventional metal key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they have a groove that's cut to a specific depth on the key's face. When you look at the key from the top it's easy to tell whether it's fake or not. They are easy to spot and you won't be locked out of your home if your key replacement car gets lost while you're doing errands or working.

If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact locksmiths that have equipment for these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit is unlikely to be able create the replacement key laser-cut because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

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

Laser-cut keys differ from regular transponder key because they do not have electronics or chips that can be changed. They must be destroyed and replaced by the new model. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are expensive, since they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.

It's an excellent idea to have at least one spare key in your possession in case you happen to lose your car keys. This way, you'll be able to call the locksmith to cut and program the key for you, so that you can have access to your car again without needing to pay to have it tow back at the dealership.

Fobs

There's a chance that you don't have an old classic car however, your car likely uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. The keys contain computer chips which need to be programmed in order to function with the vehicle you own. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming, but it is usually best to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the tools needed.

The cost of replacing your car's key fob can be as high as $500, depending on whether it is a smart key or a remote-controlled key. That doesn't include the cost of a brand Replacement Car Keys Cost new mechanical backup key that you might wish to have in the event your fob is lost or stolen.

Losing your car key used to be an inconvenience. It's now a major problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern cars have made keys so easy to use and strong that thieves are able to take them. The advancements in technology for car keys have made it more difficult for thieves.

The new keys are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, but the most expensive one is one that has the transponder and mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart key" features an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob, similar to an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to get lost or get tucked away in a coat pocket. These are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and can be duplicated to work in a different vehicle, you might think about purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a key and lock specialist who offers programming for many different vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for much cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge, saving yourself around $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a key and fob that is the same model, year and make as your original to ensure it can be programmed to your vehicle.