How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing 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 plan to buy a spare key before you lose yours. To make it easier, we have put together a guide to how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big issue. You could purchase an extra key and then use it in the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it's much more costly to replace keys that have been lost.

The most affordable method to accomplish this is to employ an auto locksmith. They are usually 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 an engine.

Modern car keys have transponders or chips that must be programmed to work correctly. This can only be done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, such as the local locksmith or cost of replacement Car key car dealer professional in service.

The cost of Replacement car key of having a mechanical key copied is relatively low however, the programming of the chip in modern cars will typically run you more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it safe.

It's important to identify the type of car keys you have before seeking help. A standard, older car key is a double-edged steel lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. These keys aren't as common however, you should be able find them at your local hardware store for about $10.

The next kind of car key is a transponder key that has an embedded security chip that sends a signal to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and enable the engine to start. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be done with specific tools that are accessible to a locksmith dealer of cars. The cost for this could be as high as $500 or more, based on the model and make of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys have a microchip inside of the key that communicates with your car. When the key is close to your vehicle, or inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code which signals your car to start. This feature is beneficial as it wards off theft. However, it makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar will require both the correct key and the transmitter in order to turn your car on and take it away.

Transponder keys cost slightly more than a regular key however, it's because it must be programmed. Most locksmiths will be able to program a transponder key, but it is best to ask your car dealership if they can do so as well. They are the best choice because they have the most expertise in programming these keys and will offer you a better price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it's essential to research all the key options prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which kind of key it is compatible with and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder. They are more complicated as they require specialized tools to program them. However they are also more secure since they use 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.

It is important that you do not try to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the type of key. This could be a red flag to insurance companies and cause many mechanics to refuse to assist you, especially if they see signs that the car has been tampered with or opened. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a replacement key, so contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a vehicle equipped with a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's much harder to lose or steal than a traditional key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that is cut to a certain depth along the face of the key. When you look at the key from the top it's easy to determine if it's a fake or not. They are easy to recognize 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 to make these types of replacements. The hardware store you visit isn't likely to provide you with an alternative key that is laser-cut, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.

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

Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys don't have any electronics or chips inside them that could be replaced, which means they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. This is the reason why laser-cut keys can be expensive, since they require a total rebuild of the entire key.

Keep at least one spare car key in your car just in the event of. You can then call an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that you can be back in your vehicle without having to pay for it to be towed by the dealer.

Fobs

If you don't own a classic car, the chances that your car is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that allow you to open and start the vehicle without the need for a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips which need to be programmed to work with the vehicle you own. Certain locksmiths can perform this reprogramming, however it's best to let your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are well-versed in the specific vehicle you have, Cost Of Replacement Car Key which can ensure it's done correctly.

Getting your car key fob replaced can cost as much as $500, based on the kind of key you use and if it's smart or just remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you might want to have in case your fob is lost or stolen.

It used to be that losing your car key was an inconvenience However, now it's a major issue. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in the technology of car keys have made it harder for thieves.

The new keys come in different dimensions and shapes however the most expensive is one that comes with an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart key" features an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds up into the fob like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or tucked inside the pocket of a coat. They are generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have an additional fob that works with your vehicle and that can be duplicated to work with another vehicle, you might be interested in purchasing a replacement car key near me aftermarket from a business like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who can program many different vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges, saving yourself around $200 or more. Be sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, make and model as your previous so that it can be programmed to work with your vehicle.