How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

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

If you lose your keys It is recommended to have a spare made. We have put together a guide on the price to replace the car key.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge problem. You could simply purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. However, modern cars are more technologically advanced and it is more expensive to replace a lost key.

The cheapest way to do this is to employ an auto locksmith. They usually can duplicate a key made of metal for less than $50. However, this type of key doesn't come with an electronic chip, and therefore isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is due to the fact that modern car keys come with transponders or chips that have to be programmed to work correctly. This can only be done by a professional who is aware of what they're doing, for instance the local locksmith or a car dealership service professional.

The cost of mechanical keys is low, but the programming chip in a modern car will usually cost you more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key in your car and keep it safe.

There are five different types of car keys, so it's crucial to know the type you have before receiving assistance in replacing it. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged metal lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. These keys aren't as common however, you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The next type is the transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip which sends a signal to the computer in the vehicle to open the doors and start the engine. This kind of key is more difficult to copy than a mechanical key, and can only be copied with specialized tools that only a locksmith or car replacement key dealer has access to. The cost for this could be up to $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use microchips inside the key to communicate with your car key battery replacement. When the key is near to your vehicle or when it is inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code which signals your car to begin. This is an excellent feature to have as it helps to prevent theft. It also makes it 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 keys is typically slightly more expensive than a conventional key, but that is because it needs to be programmed as well. It is possible to program a key transponder by most locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your car dealer if they are able to do it. This is because they often have the most experience with these types of keys and could be able to give you a more competitive price.

Many automotive manufacturers have their own anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it is important to research the key options prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which kind of key is compatible with it and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Some newer vehicles come with a transponder password system. These are more complex as they require specialized tools to program them. However they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption that changes the password every time they are used. This means that if your key was copied, it will not work in your car.

It is important that you do not try to break into your car on your own, no matter the kind of key. This can cause alarms to insurance companies and will make mechanics reluctant to help you out in the event of evidence that the vehicle has been altered or opened. This will make it extremely hard to get a replacement, so be sure to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

A key that has been laser-cut is much more difficult to take or lose than a key made of metal. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove that is cut to a specific depth on the face of the key. When looking at the key from the top, it is easy to tell whether it's fake or not. They are easy to recognize and you won't be locked out if you have your key Lost Car Keys Replacement Cost while you're doing errands or working.

If you own keys that have been laser-cut, you'll need to talk to a professional locksmith with the equipment to create 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 equipment needed to cut and program these kinds of keys.

A locksmith uses a machine that appears like a standard drill to cut the key's metal, which will be able to cut the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code will be extracted from the VIN, and the key will be cut according to the specifications of your car.

Unlike regular transponder keys, laser-cut keys do not contain any chips or electronics inside of them that can be replaced, so they must 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 an excellent idea to have at least one spare key available in case you do accidentally lose your car key. This way you'll be able contact the locksmith to have it cut and programmed for you, so that you can have access to your car again, without needing to pay to have it tow back to the dealership.

Fobs

If you do not own a classic car, the chances that your car is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that allow you to unlock and start the vehicle without the need for a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming but it is generally recommended to let your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and have all the tools needed.

Getting your car key fob replaced could cost as high as $500, depending on the kind of key you use and whether it's remote-controlled or smart. This does not include the cost of an electronic backup key that you may need in the event your fob is lost or stolen.

The loss of your car keys was once a hassle. It's now a major problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern cars have made keys so useful and reliable that thieves are able to steal them. The advances in technology for car keys have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys come in different sizes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that includes an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key within the same fob. This "smart" key features an elongated shank that is spring loaded and can fold into the fob in the same way as the switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or put in a pocket of a coat. These are usually more expensive than regular remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealer.

If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and can be duplicated to work in a different vehicle, you might want to consider ordering an aftermarket replacement from a company like Amazon or a key and lock specialist who offers programming for many different vehicles. You may be able to cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges which could save you as much as $200 or more. Make sure that the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, make and model as the original to ensure it is programmed to work with your car.