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.

It is a good plan to order a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. We have compiled a list on the price to replace keys for cars.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big issue. You could purchase an extra and put it in the ignition. However, modern automobiles are more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.

An auto locksmith can be the most affordable alternative. They usually can duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. This type of key does not have a chip, and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start engines.

This is because modern automobile keys come with transponders or chips that have to be programmed to work correctly. This can only by done by a professional that knows what they are doing, for instance the local locksmith or car dealer professional who is a service expert.

The cost to have a mechanical key copied is relatively low however, the programming of the chip in modern cars will typically cost more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key on hand and store it safely.

There are five types of car keys available, therefore it is important to identify which one you have before seeking help to replace it. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a traditional 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 purchase them at your local home improvement store for $10.

The next type is the transponder car key. This key has embedded security microchips that sends a message to the car key replacement cost's computers to open the doors and begin the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate than a basic mechanical key, and it is only possible to copy it using special tools that only a locksmith or car dealer has access to. It can cost as high as $500 or more depending on the car's make and model.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize a microchip inside of the key to communicate with your car. When the key is put in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it sends an encoded code that allows your car to begin. This is a great feature to have as it deters theft. But, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult since a thief will need both the correct key and transmitter in order to turn on your car and then drive off with it.

A transponder key is slightly more than a regular key, but that's only because it must be programmed. Locksmiths are generally capable of programming keys that have transponders, but it is recommended to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to program it also. They are the best option as they have the best experience in programming these keys and will provide you with a better price.

A lot of automakers have their own distinct anti-theft mechanisms in place. It is important to do your research before purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able find out which kind of key it is compatible with and whether it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Some newer vehicles come with a transponder password system. These are more complex as they require special tools to program them. However they are also more secure since they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they're used. This means that even if your key has been copied, it will not work with your car key replacement cost.

Whatever type of key you've got regardless of the type, it is essential that you never try to break into your own car yourself. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics won't help you if they notice signs that your car was opened or altered. This can make it very hard to get replacement parts, so be sure to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

It's likely that a key cut with lasers is much harder to steal or lose than a traditional key. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edges of the blade. Instead there's a winding groove that cuts to a certain depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to differentiate between genuine and fake keys when you look at it from the top. The fact that they're so easy to spot also means that you're not at risk of being locked out in the event that you lose your keys while at work or doing errands.

If your key is a laser-cut one, you'll need to contact locksmiths that have equipment to make these types of replacements. In most cases your local hardware store isn't able to make a new laser-cut key because they don't have the tools needed to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.

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

Laser-cut keys are not like normal transponder keys because they do not have electronic components or chips that can be changed. They must be destroyed and replaced by the new model. This is why laser-cut keys can be expensive, since they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.

It's recommended to keep at least one spare key in your possession in case you happen to lose your car key. So you'll be able contact the locksmith to have it cut and programmed for you, so that you'll have access to your car without having to pay to get it tow back by the dealership.

Fobs

You may not have an old-fashioned car, but your car probably uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to open and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that have to be programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able perform this reprogramming, however it's best to let your dealer handle it. They have the necessary tools and are knowledgeable about the specific vehicle you have to ensure that the reprogramming is done correctly.

The cost of having your car's key fob replaced could cost up to $500, based on the kind of key you use and if it's smart or just remote-controlled. This doesn't include 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, but now it's a real problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern automobiles have made keys that easy to use and strong that thieves can steal keys. The advancements in technology for car keys have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys come in a variety of shapes and sizes however the most expensive one is one that comes with an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart key" features an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds up into the fob, replacement car keys cost like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or tucked inside the pocket of a coat. They're generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the help of a dealer to replace.

If you have a spare key fob that can be used in your vehicle and can be copied, you might want to try to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a firm like Amazon or an independent locksmith and key specialist that offers programming for many automobiles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob for an affordable price compared to what a dealership would charge, which could save you $200 or more. Be sure to purchase a key and fob that's the same year, model and make as your original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.