How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.

It is a good idea to buy a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. To make this more convenient we've created a guide on the cost of replacement car keys. cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big problem. You could simply buy a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. However, today's cars are much more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace a lost key.

The cheapest way to do this is to employ an auto locksmith. They are usually capable of copying a basic metal key and do so for about $50 or less. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with a chip and will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.

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

The cost of having a mechanical key copied is relatively low however programming the chip used in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to make sure you have a backup key and that you keep it in a safe place.

It is important to determine the type of car keys you own before seeking assistance. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged metal lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. These aren't common anymore however, you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.

The next type of car key is the transponder that has an embedded security chip that sends a signal to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and can only be duplicated using special tools that are only accessible to a locksmith or dealer in the car. The cost for this could be up to $500 or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their car. They incorporate an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is near to your car, or placed in the ignition, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This feature is beneficial as it wards off theft. However, it makes stealing your car more difficult because a burglar will require both the correct key and transmitter in order to turn your car on and then drive off with it.

The cost of a new transponder keys is typically a little more expensive than a conventional key, but this is due to the fact that it needs to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by many locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your car dealer if they can do it. They are the best choice as they have the best experience in programming these keys and will provide you with a better price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems. It is important to do your research prior to buying your next car. You should be able find out which type of key it is compatible with and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Certain newer vehicles have a transponder-based password system. They are more complicated as they require special tools to program them. However they are also more secure since they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they're used. This means that if your keys were duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.

Whatever type of key you have, it is crucial that you do not attempt to break into your own car yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies and could cause many mechanics to refuse to assist you, especially if they see evidence that the vehicle has been altered or opened. This can make it very difficult to obtain a replacement, so be certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you own a car with a laser-cut key, cost of replacement car keys you'll find that it's more difficult to lose or be stolen than a conventional metal key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove that is cut to a specific depth in the middle of the face of the key. When looking at the key from above it's easy to identify whether it's fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to recognize also means that you can avoid being locked out in the event that you happen to misplace your keys while working or doing for errands.

If you own a laser-cut key, then you'll need to call a locksmith professional who has the necessary equipment to make these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases, your local hardware store won't be able create a new laser-cut key because they don't have the tools required to cut and program these types of keys.

A locksmith car key replacement cost uses a machine that appears like a regular drill to cut the metal of the key. This will be able to cut the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique key's code is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys differ from traditional transponder keys since they do not contain any electronics or chips that can be changed. They have to be destroyed and replaced with a new one. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are expensive, since they require a complete reconstruction of the entire key.

It's recommended to keep at least one spare key on hand in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. That way you'll be able contact the locksmith to have it cut and programmed for you so that you can have access to your car again without having to pay to get it tow back to the dealership.

Fobs

You may not own an old classic vehicle, but your car probably has one of the most modern high-tech fobs to unlock and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special electronic chips that have to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming for you however it's best to have your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and have all the necessary tools.

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

It was once the case that losing your car keys was a hassle However, now it's a major issue. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now take them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advancements in car key technologies have made it harder for thieves.

The new keys are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, however the one that has both a transponder as well as a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart" key has an elongated shank that is spring loaded and folds into the fob like the switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or hidden in a pocket of a coat. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be cloned to work in another vehicle, you may think about purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or a key and lock specialist that offers programming for many different vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for less than what a dealer charges which could save you up to $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a key and fob that has the same model, year and make as the original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.