How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.

When you lose your key, it is a good idea to have a spare. To make this easier we've created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, losing or losing the car key was not a big issue. You could purchase an extra and put it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and it is much more costly to replace keys that have been lost.

The cheapest method of doing this is to employ an auto locksmith. They will usually be capable of copying a basic metal key and do so for about $50 or less. This type of key doesn't have a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start engines.

Modern car keys come with transponders or chips which must be programmed correctly. This can only by done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, for instance a local locksmith or a car dealer service professional.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively low, but the programming chip in the latest cars will typically cost for replacement car key you more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it safe.

There are five different kinds of car keys, therefore it is important to identify which one you have before seeking help to replace it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. They're not as common, but they are available at your local home improvement store for $10.

The next type is a transponder car key. This key has an embedded security microchip which sends a signal to the computer in the vehicle to open the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to copy than a basic mechanical key, and can only be copied with specialized tools that only a locksmith or a car dealer has access to. The cost of this service can be as high as $500 or more, based on the model and make of your car.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their car. They use a microchip in the key. When the key is put in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it sends a code to signal your car to begin. This feature is beneficial because it stops theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car, since a burglar would require both the key and transmitter to turn it on before they could drive off with it.

The cost of purchasing a new transponder keys is typically slightly more expensive than a traditional key, but only because it must be programmed as well. Most locksmiths will be competent to program the transponder key, however it is always best to ask your dealership whether they are able to program it as well. This is because they typically have the most experience with these types of keys and could be able to offer you an affordable price.

Many automotive manufacturers have their own distinct anti-theft systems in place. It is important to do your research prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which kind of key will work with it and if it requires a remote to unlock it.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder. These are more complex as they require a specific key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, since they utilize rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key is copied, it will not work with your vehicle.

It is crucial that you do not try to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies and cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to assist you particularly if they notice indications that your vehicle has been damaged or opened. It is very difficult to obtain a new key, so contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car that has a laser cut key, you'll see that it's a lot harder to lose or steal than a conventional metal key. These keys do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove that's cut to a specific depth on the face of the key. When looking at the key from above it's easy to determine whether it's a fake or Replacement Car Keys Cost not. They are easy to spot and you won't be locked out if you have your key lost while you're doing errands or working.

If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call a locksmith that has specialized equipment for these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store is unlikely to be able make you an alternative key that is laser-cut, as they lack the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.

Locksmiths use an apparatus that looks like an ordinary drill to mill the key's metal. This will cut the entire surface until it is the desired length. The unique code of the key is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut to the specifications of your vehicle.

In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys don't have any chips or electronics inside them that could be replaced, which means they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive since they require a complete rebuild of the key.

It's an excellent idea to have at least one spare key available 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'll have access to your car again, without having to pay to have it towed back by the dealership.

Fobs

If you do not own a classic car, chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start your car without a key. These keys come with electronic chips that have to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. There are locksmiths who can perform this reprogramming on your behalf, 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 could cost up to $500, depending on the type of key you use and whether it's remote-controlled or smart. This doesn't include cost of an electronic backup key that you might need in the event that the fob goes missing or is stolen.

Losing your car key was once a hassle. Now, it's a huge issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys that useful and reliable that thieves are able to take keys. The advancements in car key technologies have made it more difficult for thieves.

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

If you have a spare fob that works in your vehicle and could be copied, you might want to try to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a firm like Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key company that can program your vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob for less than the price a dealership will charge, thereby which could save you $200 or more. Just make sure the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, make and model as your original so that it can be programmed to work with your car.