How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It is never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO can help you get back on the road fast by providing Emergency Roadside Service.

If you lose your keys it is an ideal idea to make a backup. We have compiled a list on how much it costs to replace keys for cars.

Mechanical Keys

Not long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big issue. You could simply buy a spare key, and use it to turn the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it is much more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.

An auto car key replacement near me locksmith can be the most affordable option. They are usually able to duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. This type of key isn't equipped with a chip, and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or Auto car key replacement near me start an engine.

This is due to the fact that modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that need to be programmed to work correctly. This can only by done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like the local locksmith or car dealer professional who is a service expert.

The cost of mechanical keys is affordable, however the programming chip in the latest cars will typically cost you more than $300. The best way to prevent this is by making sure you have a backup key, and keep it in a safe place.

There are five types of car keys, so it's crucial to know which one you have before getting help with replacing it. A more traditional, older car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and then turned to turn on your car. Keys like these aren't as popular, but you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for around $10.

The second type of car key is the transponder key replacement car with an embedded security chip that transmits an alert to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate than a standard mechanical key, and it can only be copied with specific tools that only a locksmith or a car dealer has access to. It can cost as high as $500 or more depending on the car's make and model.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to connect with their car. They are equipped with an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is close to your vehicle or when it is inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that tells your car to begin. This is an excellent feature to have because it deters theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car because a burglar will need both the key and the transmitter to turn it off and drive off with it.

The cost of a new transponder keys is typically higher than a traditional key, but only because it has to be programmed as well. It is possible to program a transponder key by the majority of locksmiths, however it is best to inquire with your dealer about whether they can do it. They are the best choice because they have the most experience in programming these keys and will provide you with a better price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it is crucial to research the most important options prior auto car key replacement near me to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to figure out which kind of key is compatible with it and whether it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder-based password system. They are more complicated as they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, since they employ rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your keys were copied, it will not work in your car.

It is important that you do not try to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will not assist you if they see signs that your car has been forced open or damaged. This will make it extremely difficult to obtain an exchange, so make sure to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you own a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's a lot harder to lose or steal than a traditional key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edges of the blade. Instead there's a groove which cuts to a specific depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from the top it's easy to identify whether it's fake or 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 laser-cut then you'll have to contact locksmiths that have equipment to make these types of replacements. The hardware store you visit isn't likely to make you an alternative key that is laser-cut, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this type of key fob.

A locksmith uses an instrument that appears like a standard drill to cut the metal of the key, which will be able to cut the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The unique code of the key is then extracted from the VIN and the key is then cut to the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys differ from regular transponder key because they do not have electronic components or chips that can be replaced. They must be destroyed and replaced with the new model. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are so expensive, as they require a total rebuild of the entire key.

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

Fobs

You might not have an old-fashioned car, but your car probably has one of the most modern high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that have to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming but it's better to let your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are well-versed in your particular car, which can ensure it's done correctly.

Getting your car key fob changed can cost as much as $500, based on the type of key you use and whether it's remote-controlled or smart. That doesn't include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car keys was a hassle, but now it's a real problem. That's because modern cars have made keys so convenient and capable that thieves are now able to steal keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal them.

The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that has the transponder and mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart key" features a spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob, like the switchblade, making it less likely to get lost or hidden in a coat pocket. These are usually more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have an additional fob that works with your vehicle and can be copied to work in another vehicle, you might think about purchasing a replacement keys for cars aftermarket from a company such as Amazon or a key and lock specialist that offers programming for many different vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob for a much lower cost than what a dealership would charge, costing as little as $200 or more. Just make sure the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, year of manufacture and model as the original so it can be coded to work with your car.