How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It's never a good feeling to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the roads.

Before you lose your key It is an ideal idea to make a backup. We have compiled a list on the price to replace the car key.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big issue. You could buy a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. However, today's cars are much more advanced in technology and it is more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.

Employing an auto locksmith is the most affordable alternative. They usually can duplicate a metal key for less than $50. However, this type of key doesn't come with chips and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is because modern automobile keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed to work correctly. This can only be done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, for instance an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.

The cost of mechanical keys is low, but the programming chip that is used in the latest cars will typically cost you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to make sure you have a backup key, and that you keep it somewhere secure.

There are five different types of car keys available, so it's important to know which one you have prior to receiving assistance in replacing it. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and turned to turn on your car. These aren't common anymore however you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The next type is a transponder car key. The key is equipped with embedded security microchips that sends a message to the computer in the vehicle to open the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a basic mechanical key, and can only be copied using specific tools that only a locksmith or car dealer has access to. The cost of this service can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their vehicle. They incorporate an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is near to your vehicle or when it is inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that tells your car keys replacements to start. This is a great feature to have as it discourages theft. However, it makes stealing your car much more difficult because a burglar will require both the correct key and transmitter in order to turn your car key replacement service on and take it away.

The cost of a new transponder key is usually a little more expensive than a standard key, but only because it must be programmed as well. It is possible to program a key transponder by most locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your car dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best choice as they have the best expertise in programming these keys, and they can give you a better rate.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it's essential to research all the key options prior to buying your next car. You should be able to find out what type of key will work with it and if it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.

Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with transponder password systems. They are a little more complex as they require a particular key tool to program them. However they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that if your key was cloned it would not work in your car.

It is crucial that you do not try to break into your car on your own, no matter the kind of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies and could cause many mechanics to refuse to help particularly if they notice indications that your car has been tampered with or opened. This will make it extremely hard to get a replacement, so be sure to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

A key that has been laser-cut is much more difficult to take or lose than a traditional key. These keys have no notches cut along the edge of the blade. Instead there's a groove which cuts to a specific depth up the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to differentiate between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from above. The fact that they're so easy to spot also means that you can avoid being locked out if you misplace your keys while working or replacement car keys doing around.

If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to talk to an expert locksmith who has the necessary equipment to make these types of replacements. In the majority of cases, your local hardware store won't be able make you an original laser-cut key since they don't have the tools required to cut and program these types of keys.

A locksmith will use an instrument that appears like a regular drill to cut the key's metal, which will remove the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The unique key's code is then extracted from the VIN and the key is then cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys are not like regular transponder key because they do not have electronics or chips that can be changed. They have to be destroyed and replaced with the new model. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive because they require a complete rebuild of the key.

It's always a good idea to keep at least one spare key on hand in case you happen to lose your car keys. Then, you can call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that you can get back into your vehicle without having to pay for it to be tow by the dealer.

Fobs

You might not own an old classic vehicle however, your car likely uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to open and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys contain special computer chips which need to be programmed in order to function with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming for you but it's generally recommended to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the necessary tools.

Getting your car key fob replaced could cost as much as $500, based on the type of key you drive and whether it's smart or just remote-controlled. This does not include the cost of a mechanical backup key you may need in the event your fob is lost or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car keys was a pain however, it's now an actual issue. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so easy and reliable that thieves can now steal keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal them.

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

If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be duplicated to work with another vehicle, you might want to consider ordering a replacement aftermarket from a business like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock that offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob at less than the price a dealership will charge, thereby saving up to $200 or more. Make sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, make and model as your original so that it can be programmed to work with your vehicle.