How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road in a hurry with Emergency Roadside Service.

It is a good idea to order a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. We have compiled a list on the cost to replace the car key.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't too long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge issue. You could purchase an extra key and then use it in the ignition. However, modern automobiles are much more advanced in technology and it is more expensive to replace keys that have been lost car keys replacement cost.

Employing an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They'll usually be able to copy a basic metal key for around $50 or less. This kind of key doesn't have chip and therefore will not be able to unlock doors or start engines.

This is due to the fact that modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, that have to be programmed to work properly. This can only by done by a professional that is knowledgeable about what they are doing, for instance the local locksmith or car dealer professional who is a service expert.

The cost for car key replacement of having a mechanical key copied is fairly low however programming the chip in modern cars will typically run you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to make sure you always have a backup key and keep it somewhere secure.

It is important to determine the type of car key you have before seeking help. A standard, old-fashioned car key is a double-edged steel lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. These keys aren't as common, but you should be able find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The next kind of car key is the transponder key that has 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 kind of key is more difficult to duplicate than a standard mechanical key, and can only be copied with special 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 automobiles to communicate with their car. They incorporate an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is placed close to your car, or when it is inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to start. This is a wonderful feature to have as it deters theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car as a thief would need both the key and transmitter to turn it on before they could drive off with it.

A transponder key costs a little bit more than a regular one, but that's only because it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with most locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your car dealer if they are able to do it. This is because they typically have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys, and may be able to offer you a more competitive price.

Many automotive manufacturers have their own unique anti-theft systems in place. It is important to do your research prior to buying your next car. You should be able find out which type of key works with it and if it requires an unlocking device via a remote.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a transponder system for passwords. They are a little more complicated as they require a particular key tool to program them. However they are also more secure as they use rolling code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that even if the key is duplicated, it won't work with your vehicle.

It is crucial that you do not try to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the kind of key. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they observe signs that your car has been forced open or altered. This will make it extremely hard to get an exchange, so make sure to speak with an professional Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a vehicle equipped with a laser cut key, you'll notice that it's much harder to lose or steal than a traditional metal key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch along the edge. Instead, they have a groove cut to a certain depth on the face of the key. This makes it very easy to differentiate between a genuine and fake key when looking at it from the top. They are easy to spot, so you won't get locked out if your key is lost while you're doing errands or working.

If you own a laser-cut key, then you'll need to talk to a locksmith professional who has the right equipment to make these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store will not be able to provide you with a laser-cut replacement key, as they lack the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

A locksmith uses a machine that appears like a standard drill to cut the metal of the key. This will be able to cut the entire surface of the key to 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 differ from normal transponder keys because they do not contain any electronic chips or electronics that can be replaced. They must be destroyed and replaced with a new one. Laser-cut keys are expensive since they require a full reconstruction of the key.

It's recommended to keep at least one spare key available in case you happen to lose your car key. You can then contact an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed, so you can reenter your vehicle without having pay for it to be towed by the dealer.

Fobs

You might not have an old classic car however, your car likely utilizes the latest high-tech fobs to open and start the vehicle without a traditional key. The keys contain electronic chips that need to be programmed in order to work with the car you own. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming on your behalf however it's better to have your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and have all the tools needed.

The cost of having your car's key fob changed can cost as high as $500, depending on the kind of key you use and if it's smart or just remote-controlled. That doesn't include the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you may want to have in case your fob is lost or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car keys was an inconvenience However, now it's a real problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys so easy to use and strong that thieves can steal keys. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, but the one that has both a transponder as well as a mechanical key is most expensive. This "smart key" features an elongated shank with a spring loaded mechanism that folds into the fob like a switchblade, which makes it less likely to be lost or tucked inside a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and that can be copied to work with another vehicle, you might think about purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock who can program various vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at less than the price a dealership would charge, saving up to $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a fob and a key that's the same year, model and make as your original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.