How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of your car keys is never an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly get back on the road.

When you lose your key It is recommended to have a spare made. To make it easier we've created a list of the cost of replacement car keys. cost.

Mechanical Keys

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

Hiring an auto locksmith is the cheapest car key replacement option. They are usually capable of copying a standard metal key for about $50 or less. However, this type of key doesn't have an electronic chip, and therefore will not be able to open the doors or start the engine.

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

The cost of having an electronic key copied is relatively low however programming the chips in modern vehicles will typically cost more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key on hand and keep it safe.

It is important to determine the type of car key you have before seeking help. A more traditional, older cheap car key replacement key is a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder, and turned to start your car. Keys like these aren't as popular however, you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for around $10.

The next type is the transponder car key. It has embedded security microchips that transmits a message to the computer in the vehicle to unlock the doors and start the engine. This key is harder to duplicate than a mechanical one and can only be done with specialized tools, which are only available to a locksmith or car dealer. The cost of this service can be up to $500 or more, based on the model and make of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Cars with transponder keys use microchips inside the key that communicates with your car. When the key is put into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to start. This feature is beneficial because it deters theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car since a burglar would require both the key replacements for cars and transmitter to turn it off and take off with it.

A transponder key is a little bit more than a regular key but that's only because it has to be programmed. Locksmiths are generally capable of programming the transponder key, however it is best to inquire with your car dealer whether they are able to do this also. They are the best option because they have the most experience in programming these keys, and they can provide you with a better price.

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

Some newer cars come equipped with a transponder system for passwords. These are a bit more complicated as they require a particular key tool to program them. However they are more secure as they use rolling code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your keys were copied, it will not work in your car.

No matter what kind of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital that you never try to open the door of your vehicle by yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics won't help you if they see signs that your car has been forced open or altered. This will make it extremely hard to get replacement parts, so be certain to contact an professional Mesa mobile replacement car keys auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

A key that has been laser-cut is much harder to steal or lose than a traditional key. The keys don't have a notch along the edge. Instead, they feature a groove cut to a specific depth on the key's face. When you look at the key from the top, it is easy to determine whether it's a fake or not. The fact that they're so easy to recognize also means that you can avoid being locked out if you happen to misplace your keys while at work or doing around.

If you own an uncut laser key, you'll need to call a locksmith professional with the equipment to create these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store is unlikely to be able make you a laser-cut replacement key, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith will use a machine that looks very similar to a standard drill to cut the metal of the key. This will cut off the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The unique key's code is then obtained from the VIN and the key is then cut according to your vehicle's specifications.

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

It's an excellent idea to have at least one spare key available in the event that you accidentally lose your car keys. Then, you can call an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can be back in your vehicle without having to pay for it to be tow back to the dealer.

Fobs

If you don't own a classic car, chances that your car is equipped with one of the latest high-tech fobs which allow you to unlock and start the car key button replacement without a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that must be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming for you however it's better to have your dealer handle it. They have the tools needed and are well-versed in your specific car, which can ensure it's done right.

The cost of replacing your car's key fob could be as high as $500 depending on whether it is a smart key or a remote-controlled key. This does not include the Cost Of Replacement Car Key of an electronic backup key that you may need in the event your fob gets lost or stolen.

It used to be that losing your car keys was a hassle however, it's now an actual issue. That's because modern cars have made keys so easy and reliable that thieves are now able to steal keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have made it more difficult for thieves to steal them.

The new keys are available in different sizes and shapes, but the one with a transponder as well as a mechanical key is the most expensive. This "smart" key features an elongated shank that is spring loaded and folds into the fob like a switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or hidden into a coat pocket. They are generally more expensive than regular 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 copied to work with another vehicle, you may want to consider ordering an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or a key and lock specialist who can program various vehicles. You might find that you can program and cut your own fob at a much lower cost than the price a dealership would charge, costing as little as $200 or more. Make sure you purchase the fob and key that has the same year, model and model as your original to ensure that it can be programmed for your vehicle.