How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing your car keys is not a pleasant experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road fast with Emergency Roadside Service.

It is a good idea to order a spare key prior to the time you lose yours. To make this easier we have created a list of the cost of replacement car key fob car keys. cost.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys or losing it was not a huge deal. You could buy an extra and put it in the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more technologically advanced and it is much more costly to replace keys lost.

The most affordable method to accomplish this is to hire an auto locksmith. They are usually able to duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. However, this type of key isn't equipped with an electronic chip, and therefore won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

Modern car keys include transponders or chips that must be programmed in order to function properly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they're doing, for instance an auto locksmith in your area or an auto dealership service professional.

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

It is important to determine the type of car keys you have before contacting a locksmith. A standard, older car key is a double-edged metal lock that you can insert into the ignition cylinder to start your car. These keys aren't as common however you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for around $10.

The second type of car key is a transponder key with an embedded security chip that transmits an alert to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be done with special tools, which are only available to a locksmith or car dealer. The cost for this can be up to $500 or more, based on the make and model of your car.

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use an embedded microchip in the key to communicate with your car. When the key is near to your car, or inserted into the ignition, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is a great feature to have as it helps to prevent theft. But, it also makes stealing your car more difficult as a burglar will require both the correct key and the transmitter to turn on your car and drive away with it.

A transponder key costs a little bit more than a regular key, 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 dealer about whether they are able to do it. They are the best choice as they have the best expertise in programming these keys and will provide you with a better price.

Many automotive manufacturers have their own distinct anti-theft systems in place. It is important to do your research prior to purchasing your next car key replacement near me. You should be able to figure out which kind of key it is compatible with and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder system. They are a little more complex as they require a particular key tool to program them. However they are also more secure because they employ rolling code encryption to change the password each time they're used. This means that even if the key is duplicated, it won't work with your vehicle.

No matter what kind of key you have regardless of what type, it is vital that you do not attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself. This can raise red flags with insurance companies and could cause many mechanics to refuse to help you out in the event of evidence that the vehicle has been altered or forced open. It is very difficult to get a new key, so you should contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a vehicle with a laser-cut key, you'll find that it's a lot harder to lose or get stolen than a traditional metal key. These keys have no notches cut along the edge of the blade - instead, there's a winding groove that cuts to a set depth up the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from above it's easy to identify whether it's fake or not. They are easy to recognize and you won't be locked out if your key is lost car keys replacement cost while you're doing errands or working.

If your key is a laser-cut one you'll need to call locksmiths that have equipment to make these types of replacements. Most of the time, your local hardware store won't be able 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 employ a machine that looks very like a regular drill to mill the metal of the key, which will cut off the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique key's code is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.

Laser-cut keys differ from normal transponder keys because they do not contain any electronics or chips that can be replaced. They have to be destroyed and replaced by a new one. This is the reason why laser-cut keys can be expensive, as they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.

It's recommended to keep at least one spare key available in the event that you accidentally lose your car keys. So, you'll be able to contact the locksmith to have it cut and programmed for you so that you can gain access to your vehicle again, without having to pay to have it tow back at the dealership.

Fobs

If you do not own a classic car, chances that your vehicle is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs which allow you to open and start the car without a key. These keys contain special electronic chips that need to be programmed in order to function with the vehicle you own. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming but it's best to let your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the vehicle and have all the necessary tools.

The cost of replacing your car key fob could be as high as $500, depending on whether it's an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. That's not even including the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you might need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.

It used to be that losing your car keys was a pain However, now it's a real problem. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, says that modern automobiles have made keys that convenient and powerful that thieves are able to take keys. The advancements in technology for car keys have made it harder for thieves.

The new keys come in a variety of sizes and shapes however the most expensive is one that has an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key inside the same fob. This "smart" key features a spring-loaded shank that folds in the fob to form an e-switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or tucked in a pocket of a coat. These keys are usually more expensive than simple remote-controlled keys, and may have to be replaced by a dealership.

If you have an additional fob that works with your vehicle and that can be cloned to work in a different vehicle, you may want to consider ordering an aftermarket replacement key for car cost from a company such as 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 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 the original to ensure that it is compatible with your vehicle.