How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing keys to your car is not a pleasant experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road quickly by providing Emergency Roadside Service.

Before you lose your key It is a good idea to have a spare made. To make it easier we've created a list of the cost of replacement car keys. cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, misplacing or losing keys to your car key replacement online was not a big problem. You could buy an extra and put it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and it's much more costly to replace keys lost.

Hiring an auto locksmith is the cheapest alternative. They are usually able to copy a basic metal key at a cost of $50 or less. This kind of key doesn't have chip and won't be able to unlock doors or start an engine.

This is because modern car keys are equipped with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed in order to function properly. This can only by done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like a local locksmith or a car dealer service professional.

The cost of having a mechanical key copied is relatively cheap however programming the chips in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key and store it safely.

There are five distinct kinds of car keys, therefore it is important to identify which one you have prior to seeking help to replace it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged steel lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your car. Keys like these aren't as popular however they are available at your local home improvement store for about $10.

The next type is a transponder car key. It has an embedded security microchip that transmits a message to the computer in the vehicle to open the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a basic mechanical key, and can only be copied with specific tools that only a locksmith or a car dealer has access to. The cost of this service can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to communicate with their vehicle. They are equipped with a microchip in the key. When the key is inserted into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it transmits a code to signal your car to start. This feature is beneficial as it wards off theft. However, it 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 drive away with it.

Transponder keys cost a little bit more than a regular key however, this is because it has to be programmed. Locksmiths are generally able to program a transponder key, but it is always best to ask your dealership whether they are able to do this as well. They are the best option since they have the most experience in programming these keys and will provide you with a better price.

A lot of automakers have their own distinct anti-theft strategies in place. It is crucial to conduct your research prior to buying your next car. You should be able to find out which type of key is compatible with it and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder system. These are more complex as they require specialized tools to program them. However they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your keys were cloned it would not work in your car.

It is crucial that you don't attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will not assist you if they see signs that your vehicle has been opened or tampered with. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a new key, so you should contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you own a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's a lot harder to lose or steal than a traditional key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a certain depth along the face of the key. This makes it very easy to tell the difference between a genuine and fake key when looking at it from above. They are easy to identify, so you won't get locked out if you have your key lost while doing errands or working.

If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call a locksmith that has specialized equipment to make these types of replacements. In most cases your local hardware store will not be able to create a new laser-cut key because they don't have the equipment needed to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.

A locksmith will employ an apparatus that looks like an ordinary drill to cut the key's metal. This will remove the entire surface to the desired length. The key's unique code will be extracted from the VIN and the key will then be cut to meet the specifications of your car.

In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys don't have any electronic components or chips inside of them that can be replaced, which means that they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys are expensive due to the full reconstruction of the key.

It's always recommended to keep at least one spare key available in the event that you accidentally lose your car key. You can then contact a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so that you can reenter your vehicle without having pay for it to be tow to the dealer.

Fobs

If you do not own a classic car, the chances are your vehicle uses one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start your car without having a key. These keys contain special computer chips that must be programmed to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming, but it is generally recommended to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the tools needed.

The cost of having your car's key fob replaced can cost as high as $500, depending on the type of key you drive and whether it's smart or just remote-controlled. This doesn't include the cost of a brand new mechanical backup key that you may wish to have in the event your fob is lost or stolen.

The loss of your car keys used to be an inconvenience. Now it's a serious problem. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in the technology of car keys have made it harder for thieves.

The new keys are available in a variety of shapes and sizes and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that has the transponder and mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart key" features an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds into the fob, similar to an a switchblade. This makes it less likely to be lost or hidden in pockets like a coat. They're generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the help of a dealer to replace.

If you have a spare fob that is in your car and can be duplicated, think about trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or an independent key and lock specialist which offers programming for a variety of automobiles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for much less than what a dealer charges which could save you around $200 or more. Just make sure the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, make and model as your original so it can be coded to work with your car.