How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of keys to your car is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.

When you lose your key, it is a good idea to have a spare. We have compiled a list on how much it costs to replace a car key.

Mechanical Keys

Not long ago, misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big deal. You could purchase a spare and simply use it in the ignition. However, today's cars are much more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace a lost key.

Hiring an auto locksmith is the cheapest alternative. They usually can duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with chips and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is due to the fact that modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that need to be programmed to function properly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they're doing, like a local locksmith or even an expert from a dealership's service department.

The cost of mechanical keys is affordable, however the programming chip that is used in modern cars can cost you more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key in your Car Key cover Replacement and keep it in a safe place.

There are five types of car keys available, so it's crucial to know the type you have before receiving assistance in replacing it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged metal lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. They're not as common however they are available at your local home improvement store for about $10.

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

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use microchips inside the key to connect with your car. When the key is placed into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it transmits a code to signal your car to begin. This is a wonderful 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 transmitter to turn it off and take off with it.

A transponder key costs just a bit more than a regular key, but that's only because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by many locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your dealer about whether they can do it. They are the best option because they have the most experience in programming these keys, and they can give you a better rate.

A lot of automakers have their own distinct anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it's crucial to research the most important options before you purchase your next car. You should be able find out which kind of key works with it and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder system. They are a little more complicated because they require a particular key tool to program them. However, they are more secure because they employ rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they're used. This means that if your keys were cloned it would 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 many mechanics will not assist you if they see signs that your car was opened or altered. This can make it very difficult to obtain replacement parts, so be sure to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's a lot harder to lose or get stolen than a conventional metal key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edge of the blade - instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a certain depth across the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to tell the difference between authentic and fake keys when you look at it from above. They are easy to spot and will not get locked out of your home if your key gets lost while working or running errands.

If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you will need to contact a professional locksmith who has the necessary equipment to create these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit isn't likely to provide you with 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 will employ a machine that looks very similar to a standard drill to mill the key's metal, which will remove 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 cut to your vehicle's specifications.

In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys do not contain any electronics or chips inside that can be replaced, which means they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive due to the full reconstruction of the key.

It's always an excellent idea to have at least one spare key available in the event that you accidentally lose your car key. So you'll be able call the locksmith to cut and program the key for you so that you'll have access to your car again, without having to pay to get it towed back at the dealership.

Fobs

If you do not own a classic car, chances are your vehicle uses one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that allow you to unlock and start your car without having a key. These keys come with computer chips that need to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. There are locksmiths who can do this reprogramming for you, though it's usually best to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the tools needed.

Getting your car key fob changed can cost up to $500, depending on the kind of key you use and if it's remote-controlled or smart. That doesn't include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key you might wish to have in the event your key fob goes missing or stolen.

It used to be that losing your car keys was a hassle however, it's now an actual issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern automobiles have made keys so easy to use and strong that thieves can steal keys. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal the keys.

The new keys are available in different dimensions and shapes, but the one with transponder and a mechanical key is most expensive. The "smart" key comes with an elongated shank that is spring loaded and folds in the fob to form a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or car Key Cover replacement put into a coat pocket. These keys are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have a spare key fob that is in your vehicle and can be cloned, consider trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or an independent locksmith and key company that offers programming for many vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob for a much lower cost than what a dealer will charge, thereby costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure that the new fob and key you purchase is the same year, model and model as your previous so it can be coded to work with your car.