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.

When you lose your key, it is a good idea to have a spare made. To make this more convenient we have created a guide on how much replacement car keys cost.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, losing or losing keys to your car was not a big issue. You could just purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. However, modern automobiles are more technologically advanced and it's more expensive to replace a lost key.

An auto locksmith can be the most affordable alternative. They are usually able to copy a basic metal key for around $50 or less. However, this type of key doesn't have an electronic chip, and therefore won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

Modern car keys have transponders, or chips, that need to be programmed properly. This is only done by a professional who understands what they're doing, such as a local locksmith or even an auto dealership service professional.

The cost to have a mechanical key copied is relatively cheap car key replacement, but the programming of the chip in modern cars will typically run you more than $300. It is best to always keep a spare key in your car and keep it safe.

There are five types of car keys, so it's important to know the type you have before seeking help to replace it. A standard, older car key is a double-edged lock that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. They're not as common however, you should be able find them at your local hardware store for about $10.

The next type of car key is the transponder, which has an embedded security chip that transmits an alert to the vehicle's computer system to unlock the doors and enable the engine to start. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate than a basic mechanical key, and it is only possible to copy it using specialized tools that only a locksmith or a dealer can access. It can cost as high as $500 or more depending on your car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys have an embedded microchip in the key that communicates with your Car Key Replacement Online. When the key is close to your car or placed in the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is an excellent feature to have because it deters theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car, as a thief would need both the key and the transmitter to turn it on and take off with it.

A transponder key is just a bit more than a regular key however, it's because it has to be programmed. Most locksmiths will be capable of programming a transponder key, but it is best to ask your dealership whether they are able to do this as well. This is because they typically have the most experience with these types of keys and could be able to give you a more competitive price.

Many auto manufacturers have their own anti-theft systems. This is why it is important to research the key options prior to buying your next vehicle. You will be able to figure out which type of key works with it, and whether or not it requires a remote to unlock it.

Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder password system. These are more complex as they require specialized tools 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 your key is duplicated, it won't work with your vehicle.

It is essential that you don't attempt to break into your car by yourself, regardless of the type of key. This can cause alarms to insurance companies and make mechanics reluctant to help in the event of evidence that the vehicle has been damaged or forced open. This can make it very hard to get a replacement, so be sure to contact an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a car that has a laser cut key, you'll find that it's more difficult to lose or steal than a traditional key made of metal. The keys don't have notches cut along the edges of the blade. Instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a set depth across the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to differentiate between authentic and fake keys when you look at it from the top. The fact that they're easy to identify also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out if you lose your key while you're at work or doing for errands.

If your key is laser-cut then you'll have to contact a locksmith that has specialized equipment to make these types of replacements. Most of the time, your local hardware store isn't able to make you a new laser-cut key because they don't have the equipment needed to cut and program these types of key fobs.

Locksmiths use an apparatus that looks like an ordinary drill to cut the key's metal. This will remove the entire surface until it is the desired length. The key's unique code will be found from the VIN, and the key will be cut according to the specifications of your car.

Contrary to transponder keys that are normally used, laser-cut keys don't have any electronics or chips inside that can be replaced, so they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. Laser-cut keys are expensive due to the full reconstruction of the key.

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

Fobs

If you do not own a classic car, the chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs that allow you to open and start your vehicle without the need for a key. These keys contain special computer chips which need to be programmed to function with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming, but it is usually best to have your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are familiar with the specific vehicle you have and can ensure that it's done correctly.

The cost of replacing your car's key fob can be as high as $500, depending on whether it is an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. This does not include the cost of an electronic backup key that you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.

Losing your car key was once a source of frustration. Now, it's a huge issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys that useful and reliable that thieves can steal them. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have also 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 in the same fob. The "smart" key comes with an elongated shank that is spring loaded and folds into the fob like an e-switchblade. It is less likely to get lost car key replacement or put in a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the help of a dealership to replace.

If you have a spare fob that works in your vehicle and could be cloned, consider trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement car keys price from a business like Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key specialist which offers programming for a variety of automobiles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for much less than a dealership charges and save yourself around $200 or more. Make sure you purchase a fob and a key that is the same year, model and make as the original to ensure it can be programmed to your vehicle.