How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It is never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO can help you get back on the road in a hurry by providing Emergency Roadside Service.

It is a good idea to buy an extra key before you lose yours. We have compiled a list on the cost to replace a car key.

Mechanical Keys

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

Employing an auto locksmith is the most affordable alternative. They'll usually be capable of copying a standard metal key for around $50 or less. This kind of key isn't equipped with a chip, and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start engines.

Modern car keys have transponders or chips which must be programmed in order to function properly. This can only by done by a professional who knows what they are doing, like the local locksmith or car dealer service professional.

The cost of mechanical keys is affordable, however the programming chip used in modern cars can cost more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it in a safe place.

It is important to determine the type of car key you have before seeking help. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged steel lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. Keys like these aren't as popular however you can find them at your local home improvement store for about $10.

The next kind of car key is the transponder that has an embedded security chip that sends a signal to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and allow the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a basic mechanical key, and it can only be copied with specific tools that only a locksmith or a dealer can access. It could cost you $500 or more based on the car's make and Replacement Car Keys Cost model.

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use microchips inside the key to connect with your car. When the key is close to your vehicle or placed in the ignition, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is an excellent feature to have because it discourages theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult because a burglar requires both the right key and the transmitter to turn your car on and take it away.

A transponder key costs a little bit more than a regular key but that's only because it has to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be able to program keys that have transponders, but it is always best to inquire with your car dealer if they can do so also. They are the best option 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's crucial to research the most important options prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which type of key will work with it, and whether or not it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.

Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder-based password system. These are more complicated because they require a specific key tool to program them. However, they are more secure because they employ rolling code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that even if the key is duplicated, it won't work with your vehicle.

It is crucial that you do not try to break into your car on your own, no matter the type of key. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics won't help you if they observe signs that your car was opened or tampered with. This will make it extremely difficult to obtain replacement car keys near me parts, so be certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car equipped with a laser cut key, you'll find that it's more difficult to lose or get stolen than a traditional key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edges of the blade - instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a set depth up the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from above it's easy to determine if it's a fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to recognize also means that you're not at risk of being locked out in the event that you lose your key while you're working or doing errands.

If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact locksmiths that have equipment for making these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases the hardware store you visit will not be able to create a new laser-cut key because they don't have the machinery needed to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.

A locksmith will use a machine that appears similar to a standard drill to cut the key's metal, which will remove the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut to your vehicle's specifications.

Laser-cut keys are not like normal transponder keys because they do not have electronic chips or electronics that can be replaced. They have to be destroyed and replaced by an entirely new model. This is why laser-cut keys are expensive, since they require a total rebuild of the entire key.

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

Fobs

If you don't own a classic car, chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that allow you to unlock and start your car without having a key. These keys come with electronic chips that have to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming but it is usually better to let your dealer handle it. They have the right tools and are knowledgeable about your specific car to ensure that the reprogramming is done right.

The cost of replacing your car key fob can be up to $500 based on whether it is a smart key or a remote-controlled key. That's not even including the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you may want to have in case your fob is lost or stolen.

The loss of your car key was once a source of frustration. It's now a major problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern cars have made keys so convenient and powerful that thieves are able to take keys. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, however the one that has both a transponder as well as mechanical keys is the most expensive. This "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank which folds in the fob to form a switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or hidden in a pocket of a coat. These are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have an additional fob that works with your vehicle and that can be cloned to work in a different vehicle, you may be interested in purchasing an aftermarket replacement remote car keys from a company such as Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who can program a variety of vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at an affordable price compared to what a dealership will charge, costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a key and fob that is the identical model, year, and model as your original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.