How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

The loss of keys to your car key fob replacement is not an enjoyable experience. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the road.

When you lose your key it is a good idea to make a backup. To make this more convenient we have put together a guide to how much replacement car keys cost [try these out].

Mechanical Keys

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

The cheapest method of doing this is to hire an auto locksmith. They'll 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 chips and isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

This is because modern automobile keys come with transponders or chips that need to be programmed in order to work properly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who understands what they're doing, for instance an auto locksmith in your area or a car dealership service professional.

The cost of mechanical keys is inexpensive, however the programming chip used in a modern car will usually cost you more than $300. It is recommended to keep a spare key on hand and store it safely.

There are five kinds of car keys, so it's important to know which one you have prior to receiving assistance in replacing it. A standard, older car key replacement service near me key is a double-edged metal lock that you can put into the ignition cylinder to turn on your vehicle. Keys like these aren't as popular, but you can find them at your local home improvement store for about $10.

The next type is a transponder car key. The key is equipped with an embedded security microchip that sends a message to the vehicle's computers to open the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key, and can only be duplicated using special tools that are available to a locksmith or dealer of cars. The cost for this could be as high as $500 or more, depending on the model and make of your car.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used by automobiles to communicate with their car. They use microchips in the keys. When the key is put into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it sends an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This feature is great 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 before they could take off with it.

The cost of a brand new transponder key is typically higher than a conventional key, but this is due to the fact that it must be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with many locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your dealer if they can do it. This is because they usually have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys, and may be able to give you a more competitive price.

Many automotive manufacturers have their own unique anti-theft strategies in place. This is why it is crucial to research the most important options before you purchase your next vehicle. You should be able to find out which kind of key works with it and if it requires an unlocking device via a remote.

Certain newer vehicles have a transponder password system. These are more complicated because 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 are used. This means that if your keys were cloned it would not work in your car.

It is crucial that you don't attempt to gain entry into your vehicle by yourself, regardless of the type of key. This can raise red flags with insurance companies and will cause many mechanics to refuse to assist you, especially if they see evidence that the vehicle has been altered or forced open. It will be very difficult to obtain a new key, so make sure you contact a Mesa mobile auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

A key that has been laser-cut is much harder to steal or lose than a metal key. Keys with laser cutting don't have a notch cut along the edges of the blade. Instead, there's a winding groove which cuts to a specific depth across the middle of the key's face. This makes it very easy to tell the difference between genuine and fake keys when you look at it from the top. The fact that they're so easy to spot also means that you're less likely to risk being locked out if you happen to misplace your key while you're working or running errands.

If your key is a laser-cut one, you'll need to contact locksmiths that have equipment for making these kinds of replacements. Your local hardware store isn't likely to provide you with the replacement key laser-cut as they lack the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.

Locksmiths use an apparatus that resembles an ordinary drill to mill the metal of the key. This will cut the entire surface to the desired length. The unique code of the key is then retrieved from the VIN and the key is then cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.

In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys do not have any electronic components or chips inside that can be replaced, which means that they have to be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. Laser-cut keys are expensive because they require a full rebuild of the key.

It's a good idea to keep at least one spare key on hand in case you do accidentally lose your car keys. You can then call an locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can reenter your vehicle without having to pay for it to be tow by the dealer.

Fobs

If you do not own a classic car, the chances are your vehicle uses one of the latest high-tech fobs which allow you to unlock and start the car without a key. The keys contain electronic chips that need to be programmed in order to work with the car you own. Some locksmiths are able to do this reprogramming but it's better to have your dealer do it. They are familiar with the car and possess all the necessary tools.

The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced could cost up to $500, depending on the type of key you drive and if it's a smart or remote-controlled. That doesn't include the cost of a new mechanical backup key that you may wish to have in the event your key fob goes missing or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car key was a pain however, it's now a real problem. This is because modern vehicles have made the keys so convenient and capable that thieves are now able to steal keys, says Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in automobile key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal the keys.

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

If you have an extra fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be copied to work in another vehicle, you might be interested in purchasing a replacement aftermarket from a company like Amazon or a key and lock specialist who can program various vehicles. You may find that you can program and cut your own fob at an affordable price compared to what a dealer would charge, which could save you $200 or more. Make sure you buy a key and fob that is the same model, replacement car keys cost year and make as the original to ensure that it can be programmed to your vehicle.