How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It is never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO can help you get back on the road quickly with Emergency Roadside Service.

It is a good plan to purchase a spare key before you lose yours. We have compiled a guide on the price to replace keys for cars.

Mechanical Keys

Not long ago, misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big problem. You could purchase a spare key and use it to turn on the ignition. Today, however, automobiles are more technologically advanced, and it is much more expensive to replace keys lost.

The cheapest method of doing this is to employ an auto locksmith. They can usually copy keys made of metal for less than $50. This type of key isn't equipped with a chip, and will not be able unlock doors or start an engine.

This is because modern automobile keys are equipped with transponders or chips that have to be programmed to function correctly. This is only done by a professional who knows what they're doing, like a local locksmith or even an expert from a dealership's service department.

The cost to have an electronic key copied is relatively low however, the programming of the chip in modern cars will typically run you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is by making sure you have a backup key and that you keep it in a safe place.

There are five different kinds of car keys, so it's important to know the type you have before getting help with replacing it. A more traditional, older car key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and turned to start your car. 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 that has an embedded security chip that transmits an electronic signal to the car's computer system to open the doors and allow the engine to start. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be duplicated using special tools that are only accessible to a locksmith or car dealer. It can cost as high as $500 or more depending on the car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize a microchip inside of the key to communicate with your car. When the key is close to your vehicle, or inserted into the ignition, it sends an electronic code that tells your car to begin. This is a great feature because it stops theft. It also makes it difficult to steal your car as a thief would need both the key and the transmitter to turn it off and drive off with it.

The cost of purchasing a new transponder key is typically slightly more expensive than a conventional key, but this is due to the fact that it has to be programmed. The majority of locksmiths will be capable of programming the transponder key, however it is best to ask your car dealership whether they are able to do this as well. This is because they often 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 mechanisms. This is why it is essential to research all the key options prior to purchasing your next vehicle. You should be able find out which kind of key it is compatible with and whether it requires a wireless remote to unlock it.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a password transponder system. They are a little more complicated as they require a special key tool to program them. They are more secure, however, since they use rolling-code encryption to change the password each time they are used. This means that if your key was cloned it would not work in your car.

Whatever type of key you've got, it is crucial that you never try to break into your own car yourself. This can raise alarms with insurance companies. Many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they notice indications that your car was opened or altered. It is very difficult to get a new key, so make sure you contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout expert.

Laser-Cut Keys

If you have a vehicle that has a laser cut key, you'll see that it's more difficult to lose or steal than a traditional key made of metal. These keys have no notches cut along the edge of the blade - instead there's a groove that cuts to a set depth that runs across the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from above, it is easy to tell if it's a fake or not. They are easy to identify, so you won't get locked out of your home if your key gets lost while doing errands or working.

If you have a laser-cut key, then you will need to contact a locksmith professional who has the necessary equipment to make these kinds of replacements. In most cases, your local hardware store isn't able to make an original laser-cut key since they don't have the machinery needed to cut and program these types of key fobs.

A locksmith will employ a machine that appears like a standard drill to mill the metal of the key. This will remove the entire surface of the key until the desired length. The key's unique code can be found from the VIN, and the key will then be cut according to your vehicle's specifications.

In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys do not have any electronic components or chips inside that can be replaced, so they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys can be very expensive due to the complete rebuild of the key.

It's always a good idea to keep at least one spare key in your possession in the event that you accidentally lose your car keys. So, you'll be able to contact the locksmith to cut and program the key for you, so that you can have access to your car again without needing to pay to have it tow-back to the dealership.

Fobs

You may not have an old classic car however, your car likely utilizes the latest high-tech fobs to unlock and start it without the need for a traditional key. The keys contain electronic chips that need to be programmed in order to work with the car you own. Certain locksmiths can do this reprogramming but it is usually recommended to let your dealer do it. They have the tools needed and are knowledgeable about your particular car and can ensure that it's done right.

The cost of having your car's key fob changed can cost as much as $500, depending on the type of key you drive and whether it's remote-controlled or smart. That's not even including the cost of a new mechanical backup key that you may need in the event that your fob is lost or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car key was a hassle however, it's now a major issue. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so convenient and capable that thieves can now steal them, explains Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. The advances in the technology of cheap car key replacement near me keys have made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.

These new keys come in a variety of shapes and sizes however the most expensive one is one that includes the transponder and mechanical key within the same fob. The "smart" key features a spring-loaded shank that can fold into the fob in the same way as the switchblade. It is less likely to get lost or tucked in a coat pocket. They're generally more expensive than simple remote-controlled fobs and may require the help of a dealership to replace.

If you have a spare fob that can be used in your vehicle and can be cloned, consider trying to save money by purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a company such as Amazon or a third-party locksmith and key company that can program your automobiles. You may be able to cut and Replacement Car Keys Cost program your own fob for much less than what a dealer charges which could save you around $200 or more. Be sure to purchase the fob and key that has the identical model, year, and make as the original to ensure it can be programmed for your vehicle.