How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It's never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road in a hurry by providing Emergency Roadside Service.

It is a good plan to purchase an extra key before you lose yours. To make it easier, we have created a list of the cost of replacement car keys. cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not long ago, misplacing or losing the car key was not a big problem. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and it's more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.

Employing an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They'll usually be capable of copying a standard metal key and do so for about $50 or less. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with an electronic chip, and therefore will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.

Modern car keys come with transponders or chips which must be programmed correctly. This can only by done by a professional who knows what they are doing, such as a local locksmith or a car dealer professional who is a service expert.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively low, but the programming chip in modern cars can cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is to ensure that you always have a backup key and that you keep it somewhere safe.

There are five different kinds of car keys, so it's crucial to know which one you have prior to seeking help to replace it. A more traditional, older car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your vehicle. These keys aren't as common, but 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 embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the car's computers to unlock the doors and start the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a basic mechanical key, and can only be copied with specialized tools that only a locksmith or a dealer in the car industry has access to. The cost of this service can be as high as $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by vehicles to communicate with their vehicle. They are equipped with a microchip in the key. When the key is close to your car or inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that tells your car to start. This feature is great because it deters theft. However, it also makes stealing your car much more difficult as a burglar will need both the correct key and the transmitter in order to turn your car on and take it away.

Transponder keys cost just a bit more than a regular one, however, this is because it needs to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be competent to program a transponder key, but it is always best to ask your dealership whether they are able to program it as well. They are the best option since they have the most knowledge of programming these keys and will offer you a better price.

A lot of automakers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it's important to research the key options prior to purchasing your next car. You will be able to figure out which kind of key works with it, and whether or not it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a password transponder system. They are a little more complicated as they require a particular key tool to program them. However, they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key is cloned, it will not work with your vehicle.

Whatever type of key you have, it is crucial that you do not attempt to open the door of your car yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they see indications that your car has been forced open or damaged. This will make it extremely hard to get a replacement, so be sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a vehicle that has a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's a lot harder to lose or steal than a traditional key made of metal. These keys do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they have a groove cut to a certain depth along the face of the key. 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 spot also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out if you misplace your keys while working or running around.

If you have keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to call an expert locksmith who has the right equipment to create these kinds of replacements. Most of the time, your local hardware store isn't able to make a new laser-cut key because they don't have the tools needed to cut and program these types of key replacement for car fobs.

A locksmith will employ a machine that appears like a regular drill to cut the metal of the key, which will be able to cut the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The unique code of the key is then obtained from the VIN and the key is cut to the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys are not like regular transponder key because they don't contain electronics or chips that can be replaced. They must be destroyed and replaced with an entirely new model. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive due to the complete rebuild of the key.

It's a good idea to keep at least one spare key available in case you happen to lose your car key. So, you'll be able to contact the locksmith to cut it and program it for you so that you can gain access to your vehicle without needing to pay to have it towed back at the dealership.

Fobs

You may not own an old classic vehicle, but your car probably has one of the most modern high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys contain special computer chips that must be programmed in order to work with the car you own. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming, but it is usually better to let your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are familiar with your particular 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 an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. This does not include the 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 serious problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern automobiles have made keys so convenient and powerful that thieves are able to steal keys. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal the keys.

The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, however the one that comes with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart" key features a spring-loaded shank that folds in the fob to form an e-switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or put in a coat pocket. These are typically pricier than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have a spare fob that is in your vehicle and could be duplicated, think about trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or an independent locksmith and key company which offers programming for a variety of vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge, saving yourself as much as $200 or more. Be sure to purchase a fob and a key that has the same year, model and make as your original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.