How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

Losing keys to your car is not a pleasant experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road in a hurry by providing Emergency Roadside Service.

If you lose your keys it is an ideal idea to have a spare. To make it easier we've put together a guide to the cost of replacement car keys. cost of Replacement car Key.

Mechanical Keys

Not too long ago, losing or losing a car key was no big issue. You could buy a spare key and use it to turn the ignition. Nowadays, however, cars are more advanced in technology, and it's much more costly to replace keys lost.

Hiring an auto locksmith is the most affordable option. They will usually be able to copy a basic metal key and do so at a cost of $50 or less. However, this type of key isn't equipped with a chip and won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is due to the fact that modern car keys are equipped with transponders or chips that have to be programmed to function correctly. This can only be done by a professional who knows what they're doing, for instance the local locksmith or an auto dealership service professional.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively low, but the programming chip that is used in modern cars can cost more than $300. The best way to prevent this is by making sure you have a backup key, and keep it in a safe place.

It's crucial to know the type of car key you have before contacting a locksmith. A more traditional, older car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your car. These aren't common anymore, but you should be able to find them at your local hardware store for less than $10.

The next kind of car key is the transponder that has an embedded security chip that sends a signal to the vehicle's computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and is only possible with special tools that are only available to a locksmith or car dealer. The cost for this can be up to $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize microchips inside the key that communicates with your car. When the key is inserted in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it sends an encoded code that allows your car to start. This feature is beneficial as it wards off theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car, since a burglar would require both the key and transmitter to turn it on and drive off with it.

A transponder key is slightly more than a regular key however, this is because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a transponder key by most locksmiths, but you should always inquire with your dealer about whether they can do it. This is because they often have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys and could be able to offer you a more competitive price.

Many automotive manufacturers have their own anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it is crucial to research the most important options prior to buying your next vehicle. You should be able to find out what type of key will work with it, and whether or not it requires the use of a remote to unlock it.

Certain newer cars are equipped with a password transponder system. These are a bit more complex as they require a particular key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, as they utilize rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that even if your key is copied, it will not work with your car key button replacement.

No matter what kind of key you have, it is crucial to never attempt to break into your own vehicle yourself. This could trigger alarms with insurance companies, and a lot of mechanics won't help you if they see signs that your car has been opened or damaged. This could make it hard to get a replacement key fob for car, so be sure to speak with an expert Mesa mobile auto locksmith.

Laser-Cut Keys

You'll find a laser-cut key is much more difficult to lose or steal than a metal key. The keys don't have a notch along their edge. Instead, they feature a groove that's cut to a certain depth in the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to distinguish between authentic and fake keys when looking at it from the top. The fact that they're easy to spot also means that you're less likely to risk getting 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 an locksmith who has equipment for these kinds of replacements. The hardware store you visit is unlikely to be able provide you with an alternative key that is laser-cut, as they lack the equipment to cut and program this type of key fob.

Locksmiths use an apparatus that resembles a standard drill in order to mill the metal of the key. This will reduce all the surface to the desired length. The key's unique code can be extracted from the VIN and the key will then be cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.

In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys don't have any electronic components or chips inside that can be replaced, which means that they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a brand new key. This is the reason why laser-cut keys are so expensive, as they require a total rebuild of the entire key.

Keep at least one spare car key in your possession just in case. That way, you'll be able to call the locksmith and have it cut and programmed for you, so that you'll gain access to your vehicle without needing to pay to have it towed back by the dealership.

Fobs

You may not own an old classic vehicle however, your car likely utilizes the latest high-tech fobs to unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips which need to be programmed in order to work with the car you own. Some locksmiths are able to perform this reprogramming, however it is usually better to have your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are familiar with the specific vehicle you have, 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's an electronic key or a remote-controlled key. That's not even including the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key you might need in the event that your fob gets lost or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car keys was an inconvenience however, it's now a major Cost of Replacement Car Key issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern cars have made keys so convenient and powerful that thieves are able to steal them. The advancements in the technology of car keys have made it harder for thieves to steal keys.

These new keys come in different shapes and sizes, but the most expensive one is one that comes with a transponder and a mechanical key inside the same fob. The "smart" key comes with an elongated shank that is spring loaded and folds into the fob like the switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or hidden in a pocket of a coat. These are typically pricier than simple remote-controlled fobs and could require the assistance of a dealer to replace.

If you have a spare key fob that can be used in your vehicle and can be cloned, consider trying to save money by ordering an aftermarket replacement from a firm like Amazon or a third-party key and lock specialist that offers programming for many automobiles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for less than what a dealer charges which could save you as much as $200 or more. Make sure you buy a fob and a key that is the same year, model and model as your original to ensure that it can be programmed for your vehicle.