How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?

It's never pleasant to lose your car keys. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service can help you quickly return to the roads.

Before you lose your key, it is an ideal idea to have a spare made. We have compiled a guide on the cost to replace the car key.

Mechanical Keys

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge problem. You could buy an extra key and then use it in the ignition. However, modern cars are more technologically advanced and it's more costly to replace keys that have been lost.

An auto locksmith can be the most affordable option. They can usually copy a key made of metal for less than $50. However, this type of key doesn't come with an electronic chip, and therefore won't be able to unlock the doors or start the engine.

Modern car keys come with transponders, also known as chips, that must be programmed properly. This can only be accomplished by a professional who understands what they're doing, such as the local locksmith or an expert from a dealership's service department.

The cost of a mechanical key is relatively low, but the programming chip in a modern car will usually cost you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that you have a backup key and that you keep it somewhere safe.

There are five distinct types of car keys, therefore it is important to identify which one you have before receiving assistance in replacing it. A more traditional, older car key has a classic double-edged metal key that can be inserted into the ignition cylinder, and turned to turn on your car. Keys like these aren't as popular, but you can purchase them at your local home improvement store for $10.

The next type is a transponder car key. The key is equipped with embedded security microchips which sends a signal to the car key fobs replacement's computers to open the doors and begin the engine. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate than a standard mechanical key, and it can only be copied with specialized tools that only a locksmith or dealer can access. This can cost up to $500 or more based on your car's model and make.

Transponder Keys

Cars equipped with transponder keys have an embedded microchip in the key to connect with your car. When the key is put into the ignition or placed close to your vehicle, it transmits an encoded code that allows your car to begin. This feature is beneficial as it wards off theft. It also makes it more difficult to steal your car replacement key near me, because a burglar will need both the key and the transmitter to turn it on and take off with it.

Transponder keys cost slightly more than a regular key however, it's because it must be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder by most locksmiths, but it is best to inquire with your dealer if they can do it. This is because they typically have the most experience with these types of keys, and may be able to give you a more competitive price.

Many automakers have their own anti-theft mechanisms. It is important to do your research prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able find out which kind of key works with it and whether it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.

Some of the latest cars are equipped with a password transponder. These are more complex as they require a particular key tool to program them. However they are also more secure as they use rolling code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your key was cloned it would not work in your car.

No matter what kind of key you've got regardless of what type, it is vital to never attempt to break into your own car yourself. This could cause alarms to insurance companies, and many mechanics will refuse to assist you if they see signs that your vehicle has been opened or tampered with. It is very difficult to get a new key, so make sure you contact an Mesa mobile car key replacement near me auto lockout specialist.

Laser-Cut Keys

A key that has been laser-cut is much harder to steal or lose than a metal key. The keys don't have a notch along their edge. Instead, they have a groove that is cut to a specific depth in the middle of the key's face. When looking at the key from above it's easy to determine whether it's a fake or not. They are easy to recognize, so you won't get locked out if your key is lost while doing errands or working.

If your key is a laser-cut one then you'll have to contact locksmiths that have equipment to make these types of replacements. Your local hardware store isn't likely to make you an alternative key that is laser-cut, because they don't have the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.

A locksmith will use an instrument that appears similar to a standard drill to mill the metal of the key, which will remove the entire surface of the key to the desired length. The key's unique code can be extracted from the VIN and the key will then be cut to match the specifications of your vehicle.

In contrast to regular transponder keys laser-cut keys don't have any chips or electronics inside of them that can be replaced, so they must be completely destroyed and replaced with a new key. This is why laser-cut keys are expensive, since they require a complete rebuild of the entire key.

It's an excellent idea to have at least one spare key in your possession in case you happen to lose your car keys. This way, you'll be able to call the locksmith and cut and program the key for you, so that you'll gain access to your vehicle again, without having to pay to have it tow back by the dealership.

Fobs

There's a chance that you don't have an old-fashioned car, but your car probably uses one of the newest high-tech fobs that can unlock and start it without a traditional key. These keys contain special computer chips which need to be programmed to work with the vehicle you own. Fortunately, some locksmiths can do this reprogramming for you but it's generally best to have your dealer handle it. They are familiar with the car and have all the tools needed.

The cost of getting your car's key fob replaced could cost up to $500, based on the type of key you drive and if it's smart or just remote-controlled. That's not even including the cost of purchasing a new mechanical backup key that you might wish to have in the event your fob is lost or stolen.

It was once the case that losing your car key was a pain, but now it's an actual issue. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that modern automobiles have made keys that easy to use and strong that thieves are able to take keys. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have made it harder for thieves to steal the keys.

The new keys come in a variety of shapes and sizes however the most expensive one is one that comes with an electronic transponder as well as a mechanical key in the same fob. This "smart" key has an elongated shank that is spring loaded and folds into the fob like a switchblade. It is less likely to be lost or hidden in a pocket of a coat. They are generally more expensive than regular remote-controlled ones and may require the assistance of a dealership to replace.

If you have an additional fob that is compatible with your vehicle and can be cloned to work in another vehicle, you may think about purchasing an aftermarket replacement key fobs For cars from a business like Amazon or a locksmith and key specialist that offers programming for many different vehicles. You might be able to cut and program your own fob for less than a dealership charges which could save you up to $200 or more. Make sure you buy a fob and a key that is the same year, model and make as the original to ensure that it is compatible with your vehicle.