How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It's never a good feeling to lose your car keys. GEICO can help you get back on the road fast with emergency car key replacement near me Roadside Service.

It is a good idea to order a spare key before you lose yours. We have put together a guide on the price to replace keys for cars.

Mechanical Keys

Not long ago, misplacing or losing the car key fobs replacement key was not a big problem. You could purchase an extra key and then use it in the ignition. Today, however, cars are more technologically advanced, and it's more expensive to replace keys that have been lost.

An auto locksmith can be the cheapest option. They'll usually be capable of copying a standard metal key for about $50 or less. However, this kind of key isn't equipped with chips and won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

Modern car keys come with transponders, or chips, that must be programmed in order to function properly. This is only done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, like the local locksmith or car dealer service professional.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively low, but the programming chip used in modern cars can cost you more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key on hand and keep it in a safe place.

There are five distinct types of car keys, so it's important to know the type you have before receiving assistance in replacing it. A more traditional, older car key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder and then turned to start your vehicle. They're not 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 which sends a signal to the computer in the vehicle to unlock the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a basic mechanical key, and it can only be copied with special tools that only a locksmith or a dealer in the car industry has access to. This can cost up to $500 or more based on the make and model.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to connect with their car. They incorporate an embedded microchip inside the key. When the key is put in the ignition or next to your vehicle, it transmits an encoded code that allows your car to begin. This feature is great because it deters theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car, as a thief would need both the key and the transmitter to turn it on and drive off with it.

A transponder key is a little bit more than a regular one, but that's only because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with most locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your car dealer if they are able to do it. They are the best choice because they have the most knowledge of programming these keys and will give you a better rate.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft systems in place. This is why it is essential to research all the key options prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able find out which type of key works with it and if it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Some newer vehicles come with transponder password systems. They are a little more complicated as they require a particular key tool to program them. However they are more secure because they employ rolling code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your key were cloned it would not work in your car.

Whatever type of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital that you do not attempt to break into your own vehicle yourself. This can cause alarms to insurance companies and could cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help you out particularly if they notice indications that your car has been tampered with or forced open. It is very difficult to obtain a replacement key, so make sure you contact an Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car with a laser-cut key, you'll notice that it's a lot harder to lose or be stolen than a traditional metal key. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edges of the blade - instead there's a winding groove which cuts to a specific depth across the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to tell the difference between a genuine and fake key when you look at it from the top. They are easy to spot and you won't be locked out if you have your key lost while working or running errands.

If you own an uncut laser key, you'll need to call an expert locksmith with the equipment to make these kinds of replacements. In most cases your local hardware store isn't able to make you a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the machinery required to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.

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

In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys don't have any electronic components or chips inside of them that can be replaced, which means that they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive because they require a full rebuild of the key.

It's always an excellent idea to have at least one spare key available in case you happen to lose your car key. You can then contact a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so that you can reenter your car without having to pay for it to be tow back to the dealer.

Fobs

Unless you own an old classic car, chances that your car is equipped with one of the most advanced high-tech fobs which allow you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a key. These keys have special computer chips that must be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Fortunately, some locksmiths can do this reprogramming for you, though it's usually best to have your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are knowledgeable about your specific car to ensure that the reprogramming is done correctly.

The cost of having your car's key fob replaced can cost as much as $500, depending on the type of key you use and whether it's smart or just remote-controlled. That doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your cheap car key replacement keys was a hassle however, it's now a major issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that the modern cars have made keys so easy to use and strong that thieves are able to take them. Fortunately, advancements in car key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal the keys.

These new keys come in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the most expensive is one that includes a transponder and a mechanical key inside the same fob. The "smart" key has a spring-loaded shank that folds into the fob like a switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or tucked into a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled fobs, and may require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have a spare key fob that is in your car and can be cloned, consider trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or an independent locksmith and key specialist that can program your automobiles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for much cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge which could save you up to $200 or more. Make sure you purchase the fob and key that's the same model, year and model as your original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.