How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It's never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the road.

Before you lose your key, it is an ideal idea to have a spare. We have compiled a list on the cost to replace the car key.

Mechanical Keys

Not long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big problem. You could simply purchase a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. However, modern automobiles are much more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace a lost key.

Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable alternative. They are usually able to copy a basic metal key for around $50 or less. This type of key does not have 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 in order to work properly. This can only be done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, Replacement key fobs for cars such as the local locksmith or car dealer professional who is a service expert.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively inexpensive, however the programming chip in modern cars can cost more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key and keep it in a safe place.

There are five types of car keys, so it's important to know which one you have before seeking help to replace it. An older, standard car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your vehicle. Keys like these aren't as popular however you can find them at your local home improvement store for $10.

The second type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip that transmits a message to the car's computers to unlock the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and can only be duplicated using special tools that are only available to a locksmith or dealer in the car. The cost for this can be as high as $500 or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use an embedded microchip in the key to connect with your car. When the key is near to your car or inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code which signals your car to begin. This feature is great as it wards off theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar requires both the right key and the transmitter in order to turn on your car and take it away.

The cost of a brand new transponder key is usually slightly more expensive than a traditional key, but that is because it must be programmed as well. Locksmiths are generally capable of programming the transponder key, however it is recommended to ask your car dealership if they can do so as well. This is because they typically have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys, and may be able to give you the most competitive price.

Many automotive manufacturers have their own distinct anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it is important to research the key options before you purchase your next car. You should be able to find out which type 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. These are more complex as they require a specific key tool to program them. However they are also more secure because they employ rolling code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key is cloned, it will not work with your car replacement key near me.

Whatever type of key you've got, it is crucial that you do not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle yourself. This can cause alarms to insurance companies and will cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help you out, especially if they see indications that your car has been tampered with or opened. This can make it very difficult to obtain an exchange, so make certain to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you own a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll find that it's a lot harder to lose or be stolen than a conventional metal key. These keys do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a certain depth in the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from above it's easy to tell whether it's a fake or not. The fact that they're easy to spot also means that you're not at risk of getting locked out if you happen to misplace your keys while working or running for errands.

If your key is laser-cut you'll need to call locksmiths that have equipment for making these kinds of replacements. Most of the time, your local hardware store isn't able to make you a new key cut with lasers 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 the drill used in standard homes to mill the metal of the key. This will reduce the entire surface to the desired length. The key's unique code can be retrieved from the VIN and the key will be cut to match the specifications of your vehicle.

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

Keep a spare car key in your possession in case of the event of. You can then call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed, so you can be back in your vehicle without having to pay for it to be tow by the dealer.

Fobs

Unless you own an old classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that permit you to unlock and start your car without a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to work with the vehicle you own. There are locksmiths who can perform this reprogramming on your behalf however it's better to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the necessary tools.

The cost of replacing your car's key fob could be up to $500 based on whether it's an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include the cost of an electronic backup key that you might need in the event that the fob goes missing or is stolen.

The loss of your car keys was once a hassle. Now it's a serious issue. The reason is that modern cars have made the keys so easy and reliable that thieves are now able to steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal the keys.

The new keys are available in various dimensions and shapes, but the one that has both transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart key" comes with an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob, similar to a switchblade, which makes it less likely to get lost or tucked inside a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and could require the assistance of a dealership to replace.

If you have an additional fob that works with your vehicle and can be cloned to work in another vehicle, you may be interested in purchasing a Replacement Key Fobs For Cars aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who offers programming for various vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob at an affordable price compared to the price a dealership would charge, which could save you $200 or more. Just make sure the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, make and model as your original so it can be coded to work with your car.