How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of keys to your car is not a pleasant experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the roads.

It is a good idea to order an extra key before you lose yours. To make it easier we have put together a guide to the cost of replacement car keys. cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big problem. You could just purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it is much more expensive to replace lost keys.

The most affordable method to accomplish this is to employ an auto locksmith. They usually can duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. However, this type of key doesn't come with an electronic chip, and therefore won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

Modern car keys come with transponders or chips which must be programmed to work properly. This can only by done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, for instance an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer service professional.

The cost to have a mechanical key copied is fairly low however, the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will usually cost of replacement car key more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key and keep it in a safe place.

There are five different types of car keys, so it's crucial to know which one 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 car. These aren't common anymore, but you should be able find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The next type is the transponder car key. This key has an embedded security microchip that sends a message to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and it is only possible to copy it using special tools that only a locksmith or dealer in the car industry has access to. This can cost up to $500 or more depending on the car's make and model.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys have 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 a code to signal your car to begin. This is a great feature because it deters theft. However, it makes stealing your car much more difficult since a thief requires both the right key and transmitter to start your car and take it away.

The cost of a new transponder keys is typically a little more expensive than a standard key, but that is because it must be programmed. Locksmiths are generally able to program a transponder key, but it is best to ask your dealership if they can do so as well. They are the best choice because they have the most knowledge of programming these keys replacement for cars and can offer you a better price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems. It is crucial to conduct your research prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which kind of key is compatible with it and if it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a password transponder. They are more complicated as they require specialized tools to program them. However, they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption that changes the password each time they're used. This means that even if the key is duplicated, it won't work with your vehicle.

Whatever type of key you've got regardless of the type, it is essential to never attempt to break into your own car yourself. This could raise red flags with insurance companies and could cause many mechanics to refuse to help particularly if they notice evidence that the car has been tampered with or forced open. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a replacement key, so make sure you contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

A key that has been laser-cut is much more difficult to steal or lose than a traditional key. These keys do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a particular depth on the key's face. This makes it easy to tell the difference between genuine and fake keys when looking at it from above. The fact that they're so easy to identify also means that you can avoid getting locked out if you lose your keys while at work or running errands.

If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact an locksmith who has equipment for making these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases the hardware store you visit will not be able to make a new car key replacement laser-cut key because they don't have the equipment needed to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.

A locksmith will use a machine that looks very like a regular drill to mill the metal of the key. This will remove the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then extracted from the VIN and the key is cut to the specifications of your vehicle.

Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys do not contain any electronics or chips inside them that could be replaced, so they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a brand new key. This is why laser-cut keys can be expensive, since they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.

It's always recommended to keep at least one spare key in your possession in the event that you accidentally lose your car key. That way you'll be able call the locksmith and cut it and program it for you so that you can have access to your car again, without having to pay to have it tow-back at the dealership.

Fobs

There's a chance that you don't have an old classic car but your vehicle probably uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to open and start it without the need for a traditional key. The keys contain electronic chips that need to be programmed to work with the car you own. Fortunately, some locksmiths can perform this reprogramming on your behalf, though it's usually best to have your dealer handle it. They have the necessary tools and are familiar with your particular car to ensure that the reprogramming is done right.

The cost of getting your car's key fob changed can cost as much as $500, depending on the type of key you drive and whether it's a smart or remote-controlled. This doesn't include cost of a mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that your fob gets lost or stolen.

It used to be that losing your car key was an inconvenience however, it's now a real problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys that easy to use and strong that thieves are able to steal keys. The advancements in the technology of car keys have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in a variety of dimensions and shapes, but the one with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart key" has an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob like an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to get lost or hidden in the pocket of a coat. They're generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have a spare fob that works in your vehicle and could be copied, you might want to try to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a firm such as Amazon or an independent key and lock specialist which offers programming for a variety of automobiles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob at a much lower cost than the price a dealership will charge, thereby costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure you purchase the fob and key that's the identical model, year, and make as the original to ensure that it is compatible with your vehicle.