How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It is never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO can assist you in getting back on the road in a hurry by providing emergency car key replacement Roadside Service.

It is a good plan to purchase an extra key before you lose yours. We have put together a guide on the cost to replace a car key.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, losing or losing the car key was not a big issue. You could buy an extra and put it in the ignition. However, today's cars are more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace the key that was lost car key replacement.

The cheapest method of doing this is to get an auto locksmith. They can usually copy a metal key for less than $50. However, this type 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, also known as chips, that need to be programmed correctly. This is only done by a professional that knows what they are doing, like an experienced locksmith in your area or a car dealer professional in service.

The cost to get a mechanical key copied is relatively low however programming the chips in modern vehicles will typically cost of replacement car key more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key on hand and store it safely.

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 metal lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. Keys like these aren't as popular however, you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for $10.

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

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by cars to connect with their car. They use a microchip in the key. When the key is placed in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it sends a code to signal your car to begin. This is an excellent feature to have as it deters theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car, as a thief would need both the key and transmitter to turn it on and take off with it.

The cost of a new transponder key is typically higher than a traditional key, but that is because it has to be programmed as well. The majority of locksmiths will be able to program a transponder key, but it is best to ask your dealership if they can do so also. This is because they typically have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys and could be able to offer you a more competitive price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. This is why it's crucial to research the most important options prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able to find out which kind of key works with it and if it requires the use of a remote car key replacement to unlock it.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder system. They are a little more complicated as they require a specific key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, since they employ rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that even if your key is cloned, it will not work with your vehicle.

It is important that you don't attempt to gain entry into your vehicle on your own, no matter the type of key. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics will refuse to assist you if they observe signs that your car has been forced open or damaged. This can make it very difficult to obtain an exchange, so make sure to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

A key that has been laser-cut is much more difficult to steal or lose than a metal key. The keys don't have notches cut along the edges of the blade - instead there's a groove that cuts to a set depth across the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to tell the difference between genuine and fake keys when you look at it from above. The fact that they're so easy to identify also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out in the event that you lose your key while you're working or running around.

If your key is a laser-cut one, you'll need to contact locksmiths that have equipment for making these kinds of replacements. In the majority of cases your local hardware store won't be able make a new key cut with lasers because they don't have the tools needed to cut and program these kinds of key fobs.

Locksmiths use an apparatus that resembles the drill used in standard homes to cut the metal of the key. This will cut all the surface to the desired length. The key's unique code will be found from the VIN, and the key will be cut to meet the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys are not like regular transponder key because they do not have electronics or chips that can be changed. They must be destroyed and replaced with a new one. Laser-cut keys can be extremely expensive since they require a full rebuild of the key.

It's a good idea to keep at least one spare key in your possession in case you do accidentally lose your car key. Then, you can call a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can get back into your car without having to pay for it to be tow 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 that permit you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming for you however it's best to have your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are well-versed in your specific car to ensure that the reprogramming is done correctly.

The cost of replacing your car key fob could 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 want in case your fob gets lost key replacement car or stolen.

The loss of your car keys was once a source of frustration. Now, it's a huge problem. The reason is that modern cars have made keys so convenient and effective that thieves can now take keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in car key technologies have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

The new keys are available in various sizes and shapes, however the one that comes with transponder and a mechanical key is the most expensive. The "smart" key has an elongated shank that is spring loaded and can fold into the fob in the same way as an e-switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or tucked in a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have a spare key fob that can be used in your vehicle and could be copied, you might want to try 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 vehicles. You may find you can cut and program your own fob for much cheaper than the cost a dealership will charge which could save you around $200 or more. Be sure to purchase the fob and key that has the same model, year and make as your original to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.