How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

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

It is a good idea to purchase a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. To make this easier, we have created a guide on the cost of replacement car keys. cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, losing or losing a car key was no big issue. You could simply purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. However, modern cars are much more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace keys that have been lost.

The cheapest way to do this is to employ an auto locksmith. They are usually able to duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. This kind of key isn't equipped with chip and will not be able unlock doors or start an engine.

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

The cost to get an electronic key copied is fairly low however programming the chip used in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that you have a backup key and keep it somewhere safe.

It is important to determine the type of car keys you have before contacting a locksmith. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to start your car. They're not as common however you can find them at your local home improvement store for about $10.

The second type of car key is the transponder, which has an embedded security chip that sends an alert to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and enable the engine to start. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be done with specific tools that are available to a locksmith or dealer of cars. It could cost you $500 or more depending on the make and model.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to connect with their car. They are equipped with microchips in the keys. When the key is close to your car, or inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that tells your car to start. This is a great feature to have as it discourages theft. However, it also makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar requires both the right key and Replacement Car Keys Cost the transmitter to start your car and take it away.

A transponder key is a little bit more than a regular key however, this is because it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with most locksmiths, but you should always ask your dealer if they can do it. They are the best choice since they have the most experience in programming these keys and will provide you with a better price.

Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it is essential to research all the key options prior to purchasing your next car. You will be able to figure out which type of key works with it and whether it requires a remote to unlock it.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder. These are more complicated because they require a special key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, as they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that if your key was duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.

No matter what kind of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital to never attempt to gain entry into your car yourself. This can be a red flag to insurance companies and will make mechanics reluctant to assist you, especially if they see signs that the car keys replacement cost has been tampered with or forced to open. This will make it extremely hard to get a replacement, so be sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

You'll find a laser-cut key is much more difficult to take or lose than a metal key. These keys have no notches cut along the edges of the blade. Instead there's a groove that cuts to a certain depth up the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to tell the difference between a genuine and fake key when looking at it from above. They are easy to recognize and you won't be locked out if you have your key lost car key replacement while you're working or running errands.

If you have a laser-cut key, then you'll need to call a professional locksmith who has the right equipment to make these types of replacements. The hardware store you visit is unlikely to be able create the replacement key laser-cut since they do not have the tools to cut and program this kind of key fob.

Locksmiths use an apparatus that looks like an ordinary drill to mill the metal of the key. This will remove the entire surface to the desired length. The key's unique code can be found from the VIN, and the key will then be cut to meet your vehicle's specifications.

Laser-cut keys are different from a traditional transponder keys since they don't contain electronic chips or electronics that can be changed. They have to be destroyed and replaced by the new model. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive due to the complete rebuild of the key.

Have at least one spare car key in your possession just in case of. This way you'll be able call the locksmith to have it cut and programmed for you, so that you can have access to your car without having to pay to have it tow back to the dealership.

Fobs

You might not have an old-fashioned car however, your car likely has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to open and start it without a traditional key. These keys contain special computer chips which need to be programmed to work with the vehicle you own. Fortunately, some locksmiths can do this reprogramming for you however it's better to have your dealer do it. They have the right tools and are knowledgeable about your particular car, which can ensure it's done right.

The cost of replacing your car key fob could be up to $500 based on whether it's smart key or remote-controlled key. This does not include the cost of a mechanical backup key that you may need in the event your fob gets lost or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car keys was an inconvenience However, now it's a major issue. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so convenient and effective that thieves are now able to steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal them.

The new keys are available in various dimensions and shapes, but the one that comes with transponder and a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart" key has an elongated shank that is spring loaded and can fold into the fob in the same way as a switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or put in a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be copied to work with another vehicle, you might want to consider ordering an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who offers programming for various vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob at an affordable price compared to what a dealership would charge, saving up to $200 or more. Make sure you buy a key and fob that is the identical model, year, and make as your original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.