How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of keys to your car is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the road.

If you lose your keys It is a good idea to have a spare. We have compiled a guide on the cost to replace the car key.

Mechanical Keys

Not long ago, misplacing or losing keys to your car key lost replacement was not a big deal. You could simply purchase a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. Today, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and it's more expensive to replace lost keys.

Employing an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They'll usually be capable of copying a standard metal key for about $50 or less. This type of key does not have a chip, and won't be able to unlock doors or start engines.

This is because modern car key fobs And remotes keys are equipped with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed in order to work correctly. This can only be done 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 to get a mechanical key copied is relatively low, but the programming of the chips in modern vehicles will usually cost more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key in your car and keep it in a safe place.

There are five kinds of car keys, so it's important to know which one you have before seeking help to replace it. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your car keys replacement. These keys aren't as common however, you should be able find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The next type of car key is the transponder key with an embedded security chip that sends an alert to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and allow the engine to start. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be done with special tools that are accessible to a locksmith car dealer. It could cost you $500 or more, depending on your car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to connect with their car. They incorporate a microchip in the key. When the key is put in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it transmits an encoded code that allows your car to begin. This is a wonderful feature to have since it helps to prevent theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car because a burglar will need both the key and the transmitter to turn it on before they could take off with it.

The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is typically higher than a conventional key, but this is due to the fact that it must be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by the majority of locksmiths, however you should always ask your dealer about whether they are able to do it. This is because they often have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys and could be able to provide you with a more competitive price.

Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it is essential to research all the key options prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able find out which kind of key it is compatible with and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder password system. They are more complicated as they require special tools to program them. They are more secure, however, as they employ rolling-code encryption that changes the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key has been cloned, it will not work with your vehicle.

It is important that you don't attempt to break into your car by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This could cause alarms to insurance companies. Many mechanics won't help you if they see signs that your vehicle has been opened or tampered with. This can make it very difficult to obtain an exchange, so make sure to speak with an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you own a car with a laser-cut key, you'll see that it's much harder to lose or be stolen than a conventional metal key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edge of the blade - instead there's a groove which cuts to a specific depth up the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from the top it's easy to identify whether it's fake or not. The fact that they're easy to recognize also means that you're not at risk of being locked out if you lose your keys while at work or running for errands.

If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact an locksmith who has equipment for these kinds of replacements. Most of the time, your local hardware store won't be able make a new laser-cut key because they don't have the tools required to cut and program these types of key fobs.

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

Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not have any electronics or chips inside that can be replaced, so they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive since they require a complete rebuild of the key.

It's always recommended to keep at least one spare key available in case you do accidentally lose your car key. That way you'll be able call the locksmith to have it cut and programmed for you, so that you'll gain access to your vehicle again without having to pay to have it towed back at the dealership.

Fobs

You may not have an old classic car however, your car likely uses one of the newest high-tech fobs to open and start the vehicle without a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to work with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able do this reprogramming, but it's better to let your dealer do it. They have the necessary tools and are well-versed in your specific car, which can ensure it's done correctly.

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

Losing your car key was once a hassle. Now it's a serious issue. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so convenient and effective that thieves are now able to steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have also made it harder for thieves to steal the keys.

The new keys are available in various dimensions and shapes however the most expensive is one that includes the transponder and mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob like the switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or tucked in a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and may need to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and can be cloned to work in a different vehicle, you may want to consider ordering an aftermarket replacement keys for cars from a company such as Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist who offers programming for various vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob at an affordable price compared to what a dealer will charge, thereby which could save you $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a fob and a key that is the same year, model and make as the original to ensure it can be programmed for your vehicle.