How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It is never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the road.

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

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a big deal. You could buy a spare and simply use it in the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more advanced in technology, and it's more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.

Hiring an auto locksmith is the cheapest option. They can usually copy a key made of metal for less than $50. However, this type of key doesn't come with a chip and will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.

Modern car replacement key near me keys include transponders, also known as chips, that need to be programmed in order to function correctly. This can only by done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, for instance a local locksmith or a car dealer professional in service.

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

There are five different types of car keys available, therefore it is important to identify which one you have before getting help with replacing it. A classic, old-fashioned car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be placed into the ignition cylinder and then 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 next type of car key is the transponder with an embedded security chip that transmits a signal to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and enable the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and is only possible to copy it using special tools that only a locksmith or dealer in the car industry has access to. It can cost as high as $500 or more depending on the car's make and model.

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use an embedded microchip in the key to connect with your car. When the key is inserted in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it transmits a code to signal your car to start. This is a wonderful feature to have since it helps to prevent theft. However, it also makes stealing your car more difficult since a thief will require both the correct key and transmitter to turn on your car key button replacement and then drive off with it.

A transponder key is slightly more than a regular one, but that's only because it needs to be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be capable of programming a transponder key, but it is best to ask your dealership whether they are able to program it also. This is because they typically have the most experience with these kinds of keys, and may be able to give you the most competitive price.

Many automotive manufacturers have their own distinct anti-theft systems in place. This is why it is important to research the key options prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You will be able to figure out which kind of key is compatible with it, and whether or not it requires an unlocking device via a remote.

Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder password system. These are more complicated because they require special tools to program them. However they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption to change the password each time they're used. This means that if your keys were duplicated, it wouldn't work in your car.

Whatever type of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital that you do not attempt to gain entry into your car yourself. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics won't help you if they see signs that your car was opened or tampered with. This can make it very difficult to obtain an exchange, so make sure to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

You'll find a laser-cut key is much more difficult to lose or steal than a metal key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that's cut to a specific depth in the middle of the key's face. When you look at the key from the top it's easy to determine whether it's fake or not. They are easy to identify, so you won't get locked out of your home if your key gets lost while you're working or running errands.

If you have an uncut laser key, you will need to contact a locksmith professional who has the right equipment to make these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store is unlikely to be able provide you with a laser-cut replacement key, since they do not have the tools to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith uses a machine that appears like a regular drill to cut the metal of the key, 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 according to the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys differ from traditional transponder keys since they don't contain electronics or chips which can be altered. They have to be destroyed and replaced by the new model. This is the reason why laser-cut keys can be expensive, as they require a total rebuild of the entire key.

Have at least one spare car key replacements key in your car replacement keys just in the event of. You can then call a locksmith to get the key cut and programmed so you can get back into your vehicle without having to pay for it to be tow to the dealer.

Fobs

If you do not own a classic car, chances are your vehicle uses one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that permit you to unlock and start the car without a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that need to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. There are locksmiths who can assist you in this process however it's better to have your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are well-versed in the specific vehicle you have to ensure that the reprogramming is done right.

Getting your car key fob replaced could cost as high as $500, depending on the type of key you drive and whether it's a smart or remote-controlled. This does not include the cost of a mechanical backup key you may need in the event the fob goes missing or is stolen.

The loss of your car key was once a hassle. Now it's a serious problem. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so convenient and capable that thieves are now able to steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal the keys.

The new keys are available in various shapes and sizes, but the most expensive one is one that comes with a transponder and a mechanical key within the same fob. The "smart" key features a spring-loaded shank which folds in the fob to form an e-switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or hidden in a coat pocket. These keys are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have a spare fob that is in your vehicle and could be cloned, consider trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a firm like Amazon or an independent locksmith and key company that offers programming for many automobiles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge which could save you up to $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a key and fob that is the same year, model and make as the original to ensure that it can be programmed for your vehicle.