How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road fast by providing Emergency Roadside Service.

It is a good idea to purchase 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

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a big deal. You could purchase a spare and simply use it in the ignition. However, modern automobiles are more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace keys that have been lost.

The cheapest way to do this is to employ an auto locksmith. They usually can duplicate a metal key for less than $50. This kind of key does not have a chip, and will not be able unlock doors or start engines.

This is because modern car keys come with transponders or chips that have to be programmed to work correctly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who knows what they're doing, such as an auto locksmith in your area or an auto dealership service professional.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively inexpensive, however the programming chip used in the latest cars will typically cost more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it in a safe place.

There are five distinct types of car keys available, so it's crucial to know which one you have prior to getting help with replacing it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged steel lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. These aren't common anymore however you should be able find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.

The second type is the transponder car key. It has an embedded security microchip which sends a signal to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be duplicated using specific tools, which are only available to a locksmith or dealer of cars. The cost of a replacement car key for this can be up to $500 or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys have an embedded microchip in the key to communicate with your car. When the key is placed close to your vehicle, or when it is inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code which signals your car to begin. This is an excellent feature to have because it deters theft. But, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar requires both the right key and transmitter to turn your car on and take it away.

A transponder key is slightly more than a regular key, however, it's because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with the majority of locksmiths, however you should always ask your dealer about whether they can do it. They are the best option because they have the most expertise in programming these keys and can provide you with a better price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it is crucial to research the most important options prior to buying your next car. You should be able find out what type of key is compatible with it, and whether or not it requires an unlocking device via a remote.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder. These are more complex as they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, because they employ rolling-code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that even if the key is duplicated, it won't work with your car.

No matter what kind of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital that you never try to gain entry into your vehicle yourself. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics won't help you if they see signs that your vehicle has been forced open or tampered with. This can make it very difficult to obtain a replacement, so be sure to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you own a car with a laser-cut key, you'll find that it's a lot harder to lose or steal than a traditional key made of metal. These keys have no notches cut along the edges of the blade. Instead there's a groove that cuts to a certain depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from above, it is easy to identify whether it's fake or not. They are easy to recognize and will not get locked out of your home if your key gets lost while you're doing errands or working.

If your key is laser-cut you'll need to call a locksmith that has specialized equipment for these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit isn't likely to make you an alternative key that is laser-cut, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith will use an apparatus that looks like a standard drill in order to mill the metal of the key. This will remove the entire surface to the desired length. The unique key's code is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut according to your vehicle's specifications.

Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not have any chips or electronics inside them that could be replaced, so they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive since they require a full reconstruction of the key.

Keep at least one spare car key in your car just in case. Then, you can call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can be back in your vehicle without having pay for it to be towed back to the dealer.

Fobs

If you don't own a classic car, chances that your car is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs which allow you to open and start your car without a key. These keys have special computer chips that must be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming but it's recommended to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the necessary tools.

The cost of replacing your car's key fob could be up to $500 based on whether it's a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This does not include the cost of replacement car keys of a mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that the fob goes missing or is stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car key was a pain however, it's now an actual issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern automobiles have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves can steal keys. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal the keys.

The new keys come in different shapes and sizes, but the most expensive is one that has a transponder and a mechanical key within the same fob. The "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank which folds into the fob like the switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or hidden into a coat pocket. These keys are usually more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have a spare fob that works in your vehicle and can be duplicated, think about trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement car key fobs from a firm like Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key company that offers programming for many vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges, saving yourself around $200 or more. Make sure you buy the fob and key that has the same model, year and make as the original to ensure it can be programmed to your vehicle.