How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It's never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road quickly by providing Emergency Roadside Service.

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

Mechanical Keys

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

The cheapest method of doing this is to get an auto locksmith. They are usually able to copy a basic metal key for about $50 or less. This type of key isn't equipped with a chip, and will not be able unlock doors or start an engine.

This is because modern car keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed to function correctly. This can only be done by a professional that knows what they are doing, like a local locksmith or a car dealer professional in service.

The cost to have a mechanical key copied is relatively cheap, but the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key in your car and store it safely.

There are five distinct types of car keys, so it's crucial to know which one you have before receiving assistance in replacing it. A more traditional, older car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder, and turned to turn on your car. They're not as common however, you can find them at your local home improvement store for around $10.

The next kind of car key is the transponder key, which has an embedded security chip that sends a signal to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and is only possible with specific tools that are only accessible to a locksmith or car dealer. The cost for car key replacement of this service can be up to $500 or more, based on the model and make of your car.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys have microchips inside the key to connect with your car. When the key is near to your vehicle, or when it is inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code which signals your car to begin. This is a great feature to have because it deters theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car as a thief would need both the key and the transmitter to turn it on before they could drive off with it.

The cost of purchasing a new transponder keys is typically a little more expensive than a traditional key, but that is because it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with most locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your car dealer if they are able to do it. This is because they typically have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys, and may be able to provide you with the most competitive price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it is important to research the key options prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able to figure out which type of key it is compatible with and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a password transponder system. These are more complicated as they require a specific key tool to program them. However, they are more secure since they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key has been cloned, it will not work with your car.

No matter what kind of key you have, it is crucial that you never try to break into your own vehicle yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will refuse to assist you if they notice signs that your car was opened or tampered with. This can make it very difficult to obtain replacement parts, so be certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

You'll find a laser-cut key is much harder to take or lose than a key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they have a groove cut to a certain depth in the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from the top, it is easy to tell if it's a fake or not. They are easy to spot and will not get locked out of your home if your key gets 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 to make these types of replacements. Your local hardware store isn't likely to create an alternative key that is laser-cut, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

Locksmiths use an apparatus that resembles a standard drill in order to mill the key's metal. This will remove the entire surface to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then obtained from the VIN and the key is cut to your vehicle's specifications.

Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not have any chips or electronics inside that can be replaced, so they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a brand new key. This is the reason why laser-cut keys can be expensive, since they require a total rebuild of the entire key.

It's recommended to keep at least one spare key in your possession in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. You can then contact an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can get back into your vehicle without having pay for it to be tow by the dealer.

Fobs

You might not own an old classic vehicle but your vehicle probably uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to open and start the vehicle without a traditional key. The keys contain computer chips which need to be programmed to work with the vehicle you own. There are locksmiths who can perform this reprogramming on your behalf but it's generally better to have your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are knowledgeable about the specific vehicle you have, which can ensure it's done correctly.

The cost of replacing your car key fob could be as high as $500, depending on whether it is a smart key or a remote-controlled key. That's not even including the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key that you might wish to have in the event your fob is lost or replacement car keys cost stolen.

It used to be that losing your car key was a pain, but now it's a major issue. This is because modern vehicles have made keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now take keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in technology for car keys have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, however the one with transponder and a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart" key features a spring-loaded shank that folds in the fob to form a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or hidden in a pocket of a coat. They're generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the assistance of a dealership to replace.

If you have a spare key fob that works in your vehicle and can be duplicated, think about trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or an independent locksmith and key specialist that offers programming for many automobiles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for much less than what a dealer charges, saving yourself up to $200 or more. Make sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, model and model as your original so it can be coded to work with your car.