How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

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

It is a good idea to purchase an extra key before you lose yours. To make this easier we've 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 simply purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it's much more expensive to replace lost keys.

The cheapest method of doing this is to hire an auto locksmith. They'll usually be capable of copying a basic metal key and do so for around $50 or less. However, this type of key doesn't have an electronic chip, and therefore won't be 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 have to be programmed to work correctly. This is only done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like a local locksmith or a car replacement key near me dealer service professional.

The cost of mechanical keys is affordable, however the programming chip used in modern cars can cost you more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to make sure you always have a backup key and keep it in a safe place.

There are five different types of car keys available, so it's important to know the type you have before getting help with replacing it. A more traditional, older car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your car. They're not as common however they are available 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 which sends a signal to the vehicle's computers to unlock the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a standard mechanical key, and is only possible to copy it using specific tools that only a locksmith or a dealer in the car industry has access to. It can cost as high as $500 or more, depending on the car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by automobiles to connect with their car. They are equipped with an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is placed in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is a great feature because it stops theft. However, it makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar will need both the correct key and transmitter to start your car and take it away.

The cost of a new transponder key is usually higher than a conventional key, but only because it has to be programmed as well. It is possible to program a transponder key by the majority of locksmiths, however you should always ask your car dealer if they can do it. They are the best choice as they have the best knowledge of programming these keys, and they can provide you with a better price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it is important to research the key options before you purchase your next vehicle. You will be able to figure out which kind of key works with it and if it requires an unlocking device via a remote.

Some newer cars come equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are more complicated because they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, as they employ rolling-code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key has been copied, it will not work with your car.

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 can raise alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will refuse to assist you if they notice indications that your car has been forced open or damaged. It will be very difficult to get a new key, so contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

You'll find a laser-cut key is much more difficult to steal or lose than a metal key. The keys don't have a notch on the edge. Instead, they have a groove cut to a certain depth on the key's face. When you look at the key from above, it is easy to tell if it's a fake or not. They are easy to recognize, so you won't get 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 contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment for Cost of Replacement Car Keys these kinds of replacements. In most cases your local hardware store won't be able make you a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the equipment needed to cut and program these kinds of keys.

Locksmiths use an apparatus that looks like the drill used in standard homes to mill the metal of the key. This will reduce all the surface to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut according to your vehicle's specifications.

Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys don't have any electronics or chips inside of them that can be replaced, which means that they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys are expensive because they require a full rebuild of the key.

Keep a spare car key in your possession just in case. You can then call an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that you can reenter your car without having to pay for it to be tow back to the dealer.

Fobs

If you do not own a classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that allow you to unlock and start the car without a key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that need to be programmed in order to function with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming on your behalf however it's best to have your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the necessary tools.

Getting your car key fob replaced can cost as much as $500, based on the type of key you use and whether it's smart or just remote-controlled. That's not even including the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key you might want to have in case your key fob goes missing or stolen.

Losing your car key used to be an inconvenience. Now, it's a huge problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern cars have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves can steal them. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal them.

The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, however the one that has both a transponder as well as a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart key" has a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob, like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or hidden in pockets like a coat. These are typically pricier than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the help of a dealership to replace.

If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be cloned to work in a different vehicle, you might think about purchasing a replacement keys car aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a key and lock specialist that offers programming for many different vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob for an affordable price compared to what a dealership will charge, thereby costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure you buy a key and fob that's the identical model, year, and make as your original to ensure it can be programmed for your vehicle.