How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

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

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

Mechanical Keys

Not long ago, misplacing or losing a car key was no big problem. You could purchase an extra key and then use it in the ignition. However, modern cars are much more advanced in technology and it's more expensive to replace the key that was lost.

Hiring an auto locksmith is the cheapest option. They are usually able to duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with an electronic chip, and therefore isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

Modern car keys come with transponders, also known as chips, that need to be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, for instance the local locksmith or an expert from a dealership's service department.

The cost of mechanical keys is low, but the programming chip in the latest cars will typically cost you more than $300. It is recommended to always keep a spare key on hand and keep it safe.

It's important to identify the type of car keys you own before seeking assistance. An older, standard car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your car. These keys aren't as common however you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for around $10.

The next type is a transponder car key. It has embedded security microchips that sends a message to the computer in the vehicle to unlock the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a standard mechanical key, and it can only be copied using special tools that only a locksmith or a car dealer has access to. It can cost as high as $500 or more, depending on your car's make and model.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys have microchips inside the key to connect with your car key replacement price. When the key is placed in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it sends a code to signal your car to start. This feature is beneficial as it wards off theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car key fob replacement, since a burglar would require both the key and the transmitter to turn it on before they could drive off with it.

The cost of a brand new transponder key is usually a little more expensive than a conventional key, but that is because it must be programmed as well. It is possible to program a key transponder by most locksmiths, but you should always ask your dealer if they are able to do it. This is because they often have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys, and may be able to provide you with an affordable price.

Many automakers have their own unique anti-theft strategies in place. It is essential to conduct your research prior to buying your next vehicle. You will be able to figure out which kind of key works with it and whether it requires a remote to unlock it.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a password transponder. They are more complicated as they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, because they utilize rolling-code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that even if the key is copied, it will not work with your car.

Regardless of what type of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital that you do not attempt to open the door of your vehicle by yourself. This could raise red flags with insurance companies and will make mechanics reluctant to help you out in the event of indications that your vehicle has been altered or forced to open. This could make it difficult to obtain a replacement key fobs for cars, so be sure to contact an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car that has a laser cut key, you'll see that it's more difficult to lose or steal than a traditional metal key. The keys don't have a notch along their edge. Instead, they have a groove that's cut to a specific depth in the middle of the face of the key. When you look at the key from the top, it is easy to determine whether it's a fake or not. They are easy to identify, so you won't get locked out if your key is lost while you're working or running errands.

If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to call a professional locksmith who has the right equipment to create these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit will not be able to make you the replacement key laser-cut since they do not have the tools to cut and program this type of key fob.

A locksmith will use a machine that looks very like a standard drill to cut the metal of the key, which will be able to cut the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique key's code is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut to the specifications of your vehicle.

Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys don't have any electronics or chips inside that can be replaced, so they must be destroyed completely and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive because they require a complete rebuild of the key.

Have at least one spare car key in your car just in the event of. That way, you'll be able to contact the locksmith to have it cut and programmed for you so that you have access to your car again, without needing to pay to have it towed back at the dealership.

Fobs

If you do not own a classic car, the chances are your vehicle uses one of the latest high-tech fobs that allow you to unlock and start your car without having a key. These keys come with computer chips that need to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming but it's recommended to let your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are familiar with your specific car to ensure that the reprogramming is done correctly.

The cost of replacing your car key fob could be up to $500 based on whether it's a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This doesn't include cost of an electronic backup key that you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.

The loss of 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 take them. Fortunately, Replacement Car Keys Cost advances in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, but the one with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart" key features a spring-loaded shank that can fold into the fob in the same way as a switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or tucked in a pocket of a coat. These are typically pricier than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the assistance of a dealership to replace.

If you have a spare fob that is in your vehicle and could be duplicated, think about trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement key fob for car from a business such as Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key specialist that offers programming for many automobiles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob for an affordable price compared to the price a dealership will charge, which could save you $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a key and fob that is the identical model, year, and model as your original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.