How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing keys to your car is not a pleasant experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road fast with Emergency Roadside Service.

When you lose your key it is an ideal idea to have a spare. We have put together a guide on the cost to replace keys for cars.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big problem. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. However, modern automobiles are much more advanced in technology and it is more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.

The cheapest way to do this is to hire an auto locksmith. They are usually capable of copying a basic metal key for around $50 or less. This kind of key does not have chip and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start engines.

Modern car keys have transponders, also known as chips, which must be programmed correctly. This can only be done by a professional who understands what they're doing, for instance a local locksmith or even an expert from a dealership's service department.

The cost of mechanical keys is affordable, however the programming chip in the latest cars will typically cost you more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key in your car and store it safely.

There are five types of car keys, so it's important to know which one you have before seeking help to replace it. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder and turned to turn on your car. These keys aren't as common however, you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for $10.

The next kind of car key is the transponder with an embedded security chip that transmits an electronic signal to the car's computer system to unlock the doors and allow the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key, and it is only possible to copy it using specific tools that only a locksmith or a car dealer has access to. The cost of this service can be up to $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their vehicle. They incorporate an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is close to your vehicle or placed in the ignition, it sends an electronic code that tells your car to start. This is a wonderful feature to have because it discourages 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 drive away with it.

The cost of a new transponder keys is typically a little more expensive than a conventional key, but that is because it needs to be programmed. Locksmiths are generally able to program the transponder key, however it is always best to ask your dealership if they can do so also. This is because they typically have the most experience with these kinds of keys, and may be able to offer you an affordable price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems in place. It is essential to conduct your research before purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able find out what type of key is compatible with it and whether it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.

Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with transponder password systems. These are more complex as they require special 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 even if your key is copied, it will not work with your car.

No matter what kind of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital that you do not attempt to gain entry into your car yourself. This can raise red flags with insurance companies and make mechanics reluctant to help in the event of evidence that the vehicle has been damaged or forced to open. This could make it hard to get an exchange, so make certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car equipped with 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 don't have a notch cut along the edges of the blade. Instead there's a groove that cuts to a set depth up the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from above, it is easy to identify whether it's fake or not. The fact that they're easy to recognize also means that you can avoid being locked out if you happen to misplace your keys while working or doing errands.

If your key is a laser-cut one then you'll have to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment for making these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store isn't likely to create a laser-cut replacement key for car key, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this type of key fob.

A locksmith will use an apparatus that looks like an ordinary drill to cut the metal of the key. This will remove the entire surface to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then retrieved from the VIN and Replacement Car Keys Cost the key is then cut to your vehicle's specifications.

In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys do not have any chips or electronics inside of them that can be replaced, so they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. This is why laser-cut keys can be expensive, as they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.

It's always recommended to keep at least one spare key in your possession in the event that you accidentally lose your car keys. You can then call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so you can get back into your car without having to pay for it to be towed to the dealer.

Fobs

There's a chance that you don't own an old classic vehicle but your vehicle probably utilizes the latest high-tech fobs to open and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed in order to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming, but it's recommended to let 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 can cost as much as $500, based on the type of key you drive and whether it's remote-controlled or smart. That doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key that you might wish to have in the event your key fob goes missing or stolen.

Losing your car key used to be an inconvenience. Now, it's a huge problem. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in the technology of car keys have made it harder for thieves.

These new keys come in different shapes and sizes however the most expensive one is one that includes an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart" key comes with a spring-loaded shank which can fold into the fob in the same way as a switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or hidden into a coat pocket. These are typically pricier than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the help of a dealership to replace.

If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and that can be duplicated to work in a different vehicle, you may be interested in purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or a specialist in key and lock that offers programming for Replacement Car Keys Cost many different vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for much less than what a dealer charges which could save you up to $200 or more. Make sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, make and model as your previous to ensure it is programmed to work with your vehicle.